19th century newspaper auction adverts

[Aulus]

I wonder if anyone knows the "rationale" behind auction adverts in 19th century newspapers?

I came across the following adverts in the Ipswich Journal (accessed via  http://access.gale.com/gdctrial/) and am wondering whether Ralph Guest (my great x5 grandfather) was an auctioneer or whether it's his property being sold. 

Issue 3624, Saturday, August 7, 1802

To be SOLD  by AUCTION
by RALPH GUEST
At the Angel Inn, Bury St Edmund's
On Friday, the 15th of August inst. at Eleven o'clock in the forenoon

ALL that capital, Red Brick and Sash fronted MESSUAGE situate in the Horse-market in Bury St. Edmund's, now in the occupation of Ga..liel Lloyd, Esq [details of property follow]
The premises may be viewed by applying at the office of Messrs. Chinery and Sparke, attornies, Bury St. Edmund's.  Printed particulars may be had there, or at the auctioneers in Bury.

Issue 3544, Saturday, December 27, 1800

To be SOLD by AUCTION
by RALPH GUEST
At the ANGEL in BURY St. EDMUND's
On Wednesday Dec 31, 1800 at Noon
IN THREE LOTS
The following ESTATES

Lot 1.  A Compact freehold estate situate in Whepstead and Brockley in the county of Suffolk [details follow].  The whole ... capable of much improvement, in the occupation of an unexceptionable tenant from year to year.  [details of land tax payable]
The premises may be viewed by application to Mr Edward Clarke, of Whepstead.
2. The Advowson of the Rectory of Brockley
3. Three Pieces of Freehold Land in Brockley, containing about 13 acres, in the occupation of Mr. Samuel Finch of Whepstead, as tenant from year to year.  [details of land tax payable follow]
Particulars and conditions of sale may be had at the Angel in Bury on the 13th inst.

[Galium]

I think Ralph Guest would be the auctioneer.  There are a father and son in my OH's tree who were auctioneers, and their adverts show their names in the same way.  If you can find a directory listing for the area you might be able to confirm it.

[Aulus]

Thanks, Galium