Expert: Marvinator - 3/23/2004

Question
         Do you think it is better to search privately for a buyer instead of going to an Auction online ?    







Followup To
Question -
 
  Hello ,I come from Greece and i consider for the first time to put in online auction a ring .It worths 2500 euro . Do i have a chance to obtain this price ? Which autction site do you suggest for a case like this ?

    Iam COMPLETELY NEW ,ANY ADVICE /TIP would be so valuable to me
         thanks
Answer -
First and foremost, I consider that Ebay is a BUYER's market.  I don't beleive it is possible to get a listed 'value' out of any item, unless you can get the percieved value high enough for the bids.  

As an example, I put a wedding ring on auction.  The value of the ring is in excess of $1000.00 (USD).  I wasn't even thinking that I would get the full value, and only put in a reserve of $300.00 to protect myself.  The highest bid I got was for $45.00!

I would suggest that if you do wish to continue with Ebay that you list the item with a reserve of €2500.00.  YOu don't want to end up selling your €2500.00 ring for a mere €50.00.

Always remember that regardless if what you list an item for, it is the buyers who will determine the final price.  Ebay is a buyer's market.  

Answer
This is not a question I can answer.  You have to put in the time to search out the possible alternative venues that you have at your disposal (Newspaper, local advertising, flyers, etc.) in order to see which one could bring you a better sale.  All I can do is give you information on Ebay and how it works.  

I wish you luck in your endeavor.