Title: Auction Systems - Phoenix Auctions: The Ins and Outs of Online Bidding
1Phoenix Auctions The Ins and Outs of Online
BiddingBy Deb WeidenhamerPresident CEO,
Auction Systems
2Phoenix Auctions
Online bidding is a convenient and easy way to
buy items at Phoenix auctions. Although certain
features may differ slightly from one auction to
another, the overall process will be very
similar. By following some simple guidelines,
you can bid successfully before and during the
auction. When you bid carefully, you can take
advantage of the great deals auctions have to
offer.
3Phoenix Auctions
Prior to the live auction, youll have access to
an online catalog of items. The catalog is
divided into categories to help you find
merchandise quickly and easily. For example, if
youre interested in a circular saw, you would
look under a Power Tools category. You can
also perform various online searches to find
specific items. A search box on the website may
be exclusive to each auction ring. Various
search parameters include model numbers, brands,
lot numbers, etc.
4Before You Bid
Auction lots are described by name brand and
model, if applicable and available. In addition,
lots may be depicted by media type, such as wood,
porcelain, crystal, glass, etc. Furniture is
typically referred to by upholstery type and wood
species. Dimensions are noted in descriptions
where appropriate.
5Auction Bidding
- Some important things to know before you bid
online at Phoenix auctions - Federal law states auction items are sold
as-is, where is. - Many auctions allow bidders to preview items in
person. - Online bidding sometimes will allow for a refund
if the item is described inaccurately. - Check with the specific rules, regulations and
requirements of the auction service managing the
Phoenix auctions.
6Online Bidding
- Online bidding at Phoenix auctions generally can
be done using two methods - Proxy Bidding
- Usually one week prior to a live auction, the
auction lots are available for online bidding.
If an item has no previous bids, the bid youll
enter will be higher than the starting price. If
others have already bid on the item, youll enter
the next required bid amount and a maximum bid
amount, if desired. The required bid amount will
be displayed on the screen. - Auction Bidding
- Online bidding can either be concluded prior to
the live auction or be done as simulcast bidding
where you bid in real time with the live
audience. In Phoenix auctions that close online
bidding prior to the live event, your bid (and
maximum bid if you entered one) will be
represented by an auction house staff member.
Your highest bid will be the starting point for
bidding at the live auction.
7After the Auction
Youll receive an e-mail after the auction
indicating whether you won. If you were the
successful bidder, youll receive a copy of a
paid invoice. Then, youll need to retrieve your
items. When you registered for a bid card, you
probably had the option of having your items
shipped directly to you. If you arent having
them shipped, youll have to pick up the
merchandise at the auction location within the
time allotted.
8Phoenix Auctions
Online bidding is fun, fast and exciting. Its
easy to get hooked on the process, so its
important to thoroughly evaluate potential items.
Once you determine an items value, then you can
set a maximum bid. When you bid carefully, you
can take advantage of the great deals auctions
have to offer.
9About the Author
- Deb Weidenhamer is President of Auctions Systems
Auctioneers Appraisers, Inc., based in Phoenix,
Arizona. They specialize in auctions and
professional appraisals. - Visit us at http//www.auctionandappraise.com or
call 1-800-801-8880 for more information about
our Phoenix auctions company.