|
In order to become licensed in Ohio, an
auctioneer must first attend an approved auction school, serve a full year as an apprentice,
and act as a bid caller in 12 auctions before applying for an
auctioneer license. The applicant must then take and pass a written
and verbal examination prior to receiving a license.
Auction Appeal
The auction method of marketing is a fast-paced,
exciting method of selling real or personal property. Some of
the benefits of the auction method of marketing are:
- Buyers come prepared to buy.
- Quick disposal reduces
overhead.
- Exposes the property to a large number of buyers.
- Accelerates
the sale.
- Creates competition among buyers, potentially
increasing the price of a private transaction.
- Takes the
seller out of the negotiation process.
- Ensures an aggressive
marketing program that increases interest and visibility.
Consumer Awareness
Before hiring
and contracting with an auctioneer, there are several factors
to consider. All auctioneers are required to enter into a contract
with the owner or consignee of the property to be sold. Consumers
should review the details of the contract: does it cover the
auctioneer fees; does it also cover the advertising and labor?
Consumers should fully understand the services for which they
will be paying and should also consider:
- Auctioneer’s expertise. Some
auctioneers specialize in certain types of auctions. Ask the
auctioneer if they know the market; the value of the property
and how to attract the buyers most interested in the property.
Ask for their marketing plan.
- Experience.
Auctioneers can conduct anywhere from a few
dozen or over 100 auctions in a year. Ask the auctioneer how
much experience they have and how long they have been in the
business; ask if the auctioneer has earned any special designations
or honors from any professional organizations or if they are
licensed appraisers.
- References.
Ask for references
from former clients.
- Licensing.
Call the Ohio Department of Agriculture
to see if the auctioneer is licensed and in good standing.
- Reputation. Talk to former clients and people who attend auctions frequently.
Find out what they know about the auctioneer.
- Observation.
Attend an
auction conducted by the auctioneer. See how the auction is
advertised and how the auction is run.
|
