Think about how exciting antique auctions can be. Here you are going through the antiquing process at a fast pace and a number of items are being sold all around you.
This process though is nothing like the world of items you might find on eBay and Craigslist. But even with a more limited selection, you can actually look at and touch these items before you ever bid on them.
Long before you head out and bid on online silent auction ideas anything, you will want to go on the floor and look at the different options that will be put up. In a silent auction, you could be asked to place your bids before hand, with the winners announced at the very end. In a more traditional auction, you will go head to head with others and the bids will continue to increase based on interest in an item.
While you have the spare time before the auction, you should be sure you take the time to look at both the quality and the authenticity of the item you are considering. Many auction houses will screen everything before the sale, but some will allow any item to cross their auction block. Take the time to look over everything and know what you are budding on so you don’t pay more for an item than it is actually worth.
If possible, try to find people and discuss a piece you are interested in with them. You may consider talking to staff or others out antiquing. Many times, you will find these people will offer you tips and tricks for understanding an item and can help you to avoid mistakes. Since there is a love of the craft in these people, they will genuinely be open to discussing aspects with anyone who is truly interested.
Just be sure that when the auction block comes up, you know your limit. You should note that this process can become very exciting and you must know your limit off the bat. This way you can avoid spending too much for any item during a bidding war that exceeds what you can afford, or what the item is actually worth. Just note some houses do have bidders in the audience to help bump up a bid. Be sure you keep true to your final asking price.
One last thing you must realize is that these auction houses are there to make money as well. Since they get a cut off the final price, they will encourage you to bid. They may ask you directly, or cause a great deal of excitement. Be sure you take a moment to think before you bid and decline anytime you cannot afford an item or if it goes past the maximum bid you are originally willing to pay.