When Auction Day Comes
If this is your first auction try hard not to overbid
I know how you feel. You have read all the information. Discovered some items you can not live without . But remember you are still a newbe. This is the time to learn-- not plunge. Be very conservative in your bids.
The Bidding Process
The seasoned bidder , and the beginner size up the first item up for bid.
Get a feel for the auction . Note the way the auctioneer starts the bidding. A good auctioneer leads the bidders. A bad auctioneer is lead by the bidders. Watch the bidders closely. If every thing is running smoothly. Try a few very conservative bids.
The Auction Catalog
Catalogs are a list of the items for sale at the auction you are attending.
Each item has a lot number the auction uses to identify it. As the items come up for bid.
The auctioneer will start by saying. This is lot number 5555 , and start the bidding.
The items are auctioned in the order they are listed in.. The auction catalog makes a great note book. Check off the items you want to bid on , and the highest price you will pay.
Inspection Time
All public auctions set aside a time period for you to view the items up for
auction. Use this time wisely. This is your only chance to closely inspect the goods.
Never bid on an item without inspecting it first.
Two Heads Are Better Than One
Bring a friend . It's easy to get carried away at an auction. Having someone you trust along helps settle everything down. Especially if they know something about the items you are going to bid on.
Pay Attention
Auctions move at a very fast clip. A good auctioneer will sell an item every minute or two. Practice keeping tract of who has the bid. When you bid on an item be careful
not to over bid yourself. That is probably the most common mistake a novice makes.
Auction Fever
The worst thing that can happen to you. Is to totally lose control.
I have seen two bidders get mad at each other , and run the bid up to twice the retail cost
of the item they are bidding on. Set the price you will pay BEFORE THE AUCTION STARTS.
Never Buy More Than You Can Handle
Remember at most auctions you must pay for and, remove the items the same day . Some auctions will give you more time if you make arrangements in advance. Always be aware of the auctions time frame , and stick to it.
Back To: The Government Auction Page
©Copyright 2003 The Government Auction Page
