More estate sales organisations and online estate auctions are reaching out to customers where they are already: online. Online auctions are a clever method to sell more stuff, and they can be easier and more convenient than holding a live auction or estate sale in person.
Take a look at these ten selling tips for online auctions.
Set a minimum bid amount
While the market determines the price in an online auction, the tone is set by your first bid. Depending on your contract, you may need to discuss the minimum price with your estate sale consignor ahead of time. Because so much of an auction is out of your control, the initial bid is the only thing you can control. So make sure you’ve done your homework and are comfortable with the price – here’s a terrific online guide on estate sale appraisal and pricing.
Observe the law
While the majority of states do not regulate internet auctions, a few do. It’s a good idea to know your state’s auction laws at the very least, especially as more become regulated. To get you started, here’s a list of state-by-state auction legislation.
Have a well-defined return policy
Customers are occasionally dissatisfied with their purchases. You should have worked out with the consignor what your return deadline will be. Make your policy clear to your customers so they know what to expect – and then stick to it. If they are located outside of your area, request images and descriptions of the damage. Remind customers that products returned after the deadline will not be reimbursed. Of course, as this is an estate sale, no replacements will be possible.
Please contact the winner as soon as possible
Don’t wait any longer. Auction winnings, like deals involving money, buying a property, or accepting a job offer, have a tendency to fall through before money is transferred. To avoid second-guessing — or disappearing — during the lag, contact the winner through email right away.
Tell the truth
Tell the truth when advertising your sale or item, whether it’s in the title, photo, description, or starting price! Customers are more inclined to buy with you again if they get what they expect. You don’t want to be known as someone who can’t be trusted. Word spreads quickly, especially online.
Please provide tracking details
If you are able to give tracking information for their package, please so. It will assist you in managing your customers’ expectations and provide them with something to check without having to contact you.
Make use of photographs
Ideally, good estate sale photographs. We’re aware. Uploading photos takes time, which you don’t always have. But it’s true: images go a long way in promoting your product. Browsing, which includes looking through photographs online, is part of the fun of purchasing. Take some time ahead of time to get some good photographs. You can shoot good images with your smartphone these days, and you can get free photo editing tools online. In online auctions, superb photography goes a long way, whether you’re selling a single item or a group of items.
Give specific delivery instructions
The auctioneer is normally in charge of the shipping and delivery procedures. How will you get the item to your consumer, particularly larger things such as estate sale furniture?
Be as specific as possible with any decision you make. Some customers will refuse to pay for shipment or will refuse to pick up the goods personally. Be upfront about your requirements — and, of course, follow through on them.
On-time shipping or delivery
When it comes to online auctions, this is the key to providing excellent customer service. Be conscientious about shipping on schedule — and taking the necessary precautions to ensure that the item arrives in good condition. Customers that are pleased with their service are more likely to return and refer others.
Maintain well-organized records
Document after document after document after document after document after document after document after document after document after document This is useful if you have a disagreement with a customer or client. Clear records will also come in helpful during tax season or if you are audited.
