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“SOLD!” To an auction enthusiast, there is no sweeter word. Auctions are fabulous places to locate unique items and bag big bargains. However, before heading off to that great auction you’ve been waiting–and saving–for, take the time to follow some auction tips that can make you a better bidder.
Check It Out
Before the bidding begins, it’s always a good idea to attend a preview or acquire a catalogue of the items up for bidding. Following this precaution will guarantee that the items you are interested in are actually what you want or need. Call the auction house to confirm the location and time of the sale. In some instances, auctions can be abruptly cancelled. Calling before you actually travel saves you time, money and energy, and lets you avoid the frustration and disappointment of arriving to find the auction will not be taking place.
Ask and Inspect
Don’t be afraid to ask for a careful inspection of the items up for bid. Most auctions feature used merchandise, and rarely do these items come with any sort of guarantee or warranty. The most effective manner to ensure your satisfaction with the items you purchase is to request an inspection. If the item you’re interested in is reported or claimed to be faulty, be sure to check exactly what the fault consists of. Request the auctioneer to have the item tested. If the item needs to be modified or fixed, you can take the repair costs into account in determining your maximum bid amount. Motor vehicle auctions will normally grant a grace period. The winning bidder is permitted a pre-determined length of time in which they may be returned if it is found to have problems. Ask the auctioneer if grace periods or warranties are in effect.
Set Your Limit and Stay Within It
Auctions can be exciting, emotional, competitive, and even aggressive. It’s quite easy to lose yourself in the moment, and be taken in by other people’s bids. If the competition gets hot and you can’t stand to lose “your” item, you can easily go above and beyond your spending limit. However, nothing beats old-fashioned discipline. Set a maximum price for each product, and try to stick to it. If you buy five items and spend twenty dollars more on each one, you’ve gone a full one hundred dollars beyond your limit. Some auctions will tack on extra fees on top of the actual bid price, such as fees or premiums for guarantees. In addition, local taxes may also apply. Be sure to verify on sale conditions before you begin bidding. Consult with the auctioneer, or check the catalogue.
Not Exactly As Illustrated
You should know that catalogues are not written in stone; therefore any items included in them are subject to change. If you have your heart set on a specific item, consult with the auctioneer or preview the piece before you bid.
Watch and Listen
You already know that it’s crucial to preview the items very carefully. It’s equally essential to hear what the auctioneer is saying. Listen intently to the auctioneer’s description of the items up for bid. There may be defects, changes, or exclusions that you were not aware of. For instance, that dining room set you’ve had your eye on may not be sold with the chest of drawers.
Auction sales offer a whirlwind of excitement and huge savings opportunities. Take the time to make educated bids, and you may indeed locate the bargain of a lifetime.
Tagged with: auction sale • home business
Filed under: Home Business - MYO