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Top tips of how to price your auction items to get the most bids.
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How to price your auction items for maximum bids

Helen
Helen

When you're ready to get selling, setting the right price for your items is crucial when it comes to online auctions. As a seller, your goal is to attract potential buyers and maximize your profits. However, determining the optimal price can sometimes be challenging. Fear not! In this blog we will explore effective strategies to help you price your items for maximum bids. By understanding the market, conducting research, and utilising smart pricing techniques, you can increase your chances of success!

Know your market

The first step in pricing your items effectively is understanding the market dynamics. Research similar items in our live and closed auctions to gain insights into their selling prices. Identify trends, demand patterns, and any unique factors that may influence pricing. Consider factors such as item condition, brand, age, rarity, and current market demand. By understanding the market, you can set a competitive starting price that attracts potential buyers and encourages bidding.

Research historical data

Examining historical data can provide valuable information for pricing your items. Look for completed auctions of similar items to assess the final sale prices. Pay attention to items with multiple bids and determine what characteristics may have contributed to their success. This data will help you gauge the range within which your item can realistically sell and set a starting price that reflects its value.

Set an attractive starting price

Setting an attractive starting price is vital for generating interest and bidding activity. Aim for a price that is competitive but still allows room for potential bidding wars. Starting too high may deter potential buyers, while starting too low could lead to a lower final selling price. Strike a balance by setting a starting price that captures attention and motivates bidders to participate.

Use a reserve price wisely

A reserve price is the minimum price at which you are willing to sell your item. While using a reserve price can provide a sense of security, it is important to use it wisely. Consider the market value of your item and the bidding activity on similar items. Setting a reserve price that is too high may discourage bidders, resulting in no sale at all. However, setting a reasonable reserve price can give you peace of mind and protect you from selling an item for less than it's worth. Auctions with no reserve price are really popular but of course there's an element of risk there. Consider what you would be comfortable parting with the item for and that should help you decide on your approach.

Create compelling descriptions

Your item's description plays a key role in attracting potential buyers and encouraging them to place bids. Craft a detailed and accurate description that highlights the item's features, condition, and unique selling points. Include high-quality images from different angles to provide a clear view of the item. By creating comprehsive item descriptions, you increase the perceived value and generate more interest, leading to higher bids.

Utilise auction duration

The duration of an auction can influence bidding behaviour. Consider the nature of your item and choose an appropriate auction length accordingly. We generally advise running auctions for a minimum of two weeks, ideally longer. You might feel like you're in a rush to make a sale and get the money banked but if you don't leave enough time, you're minimising the amount of the target market who can see your items. Allow time for our marketing team to work their magic and watch the bids roll in!

Are you now ready to get listing? 

Head over to our seller's area to get cracking!