How to Run A Live Auction: A Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

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A live auction has been a popular method of selling various goods for centuries, including fine art, antiques, collectibles, real estate and more. During a live auction, bidders and auctioneers gather in the same location to bid on items of interest in real time. This could be anything from a small community event to a large international gathering, with the goal of being the highest bidder to win the item.

The auction’s success depends on several factors, including the quality of the items, the auction house’s marketing efforts and the auctioneer’s skills. An auctioneer must possess excellent timing, the ability to read the room and a clear speaking style. They are responsible for managing the bidding process, resolving any possible disputes and maintaining control of the auction at all times. The role of an auctioneer requires finesse and expertise.

Are you wondering how to run a live auction? If you’re a beginner, do you know how to prepare for it? Here’s what you need to know. 

Preparing for the Auction

The first step in understanding how to run a live auction starts with preparation. This requires a great deal of planning, organisation and attention to detail. 

Here are some crucial steps to ensure you are prepared for a live auction.

  • Determine the items to be auctioned

As an organiser, you need to identify the items that will be up for auction. This could include property, artwork, collectibles, or any other type of goods that can be sold through an auction.

  • Set the reserve price

The reserve price is the minimum price at which the item can be sold. You need to determine this price beforehand to ensure that the item sells for a reasonable price.

  • Establish the auction date, time and location

This is a must. It is especially needed when promoting the auction to attract potential buyers.

  • Prepare the auction space

The auction space needs to be prepared to ensure that it is ready for the event. This could involve setting up tables, chairs or other equipment needed for the auction.

  • Train the auctioneer and staff

The auctioneer and support staff must be trained to ensure that the event runs smoothly. This could mean providing training on how to handle bids, how to manage the auctioneer’s pace and how to handle any technical difficulties.

  • Conduct a test run

A test auction is crucial to make sure that all equipment and staff are prepared for the event.

Setting the Stage for a Successful Auction

To have a successful live auction, whether you’re putting up a valuable artwork, a rare collectible or a real estate property, you must set the stage properly. A few tips to help set up an effortless and lucrative auction are:

  • Choose the right venue

To make your auction a success, choose a venue that suits your needs. Take into account the location, size, and atmosphere, and ensure that it’s easily accessible and convenient for attendees. To elevate the auction experience, opt for a venue with audio-visual facilities.

  • Promote the auction

An auction needs to be promoted to get the word out about the auction and attract potential buyers. Promote your auction extensively through various means, such as social media, email marketing and local newspapers. Ensure to include crucial information like the date, time, location and list of items sold. Encourage participants to share the news with their friends and family. 

  • Register bidders

Require bidders to register. This typically involves asking for personal information, such as name and address, and proof of identity.

  • Hire a professional auctioneer

An experienced auctioneer can add life to the event and skillfully manage the bidding process. Search for an auctioneer who understands your industry and is familiar with the items you’re selling.

  • Prepare your items

Before the auction, put in the effort to prepare the items for sale. Clean, repair or restore them, and label or tag them properly. This will enhance their value and attract more bidders. Provide clear descriptions and pictures of each item so attendees can familiarise themselves with what’s up for auction.

Running the Auction

So how to run a live auction? The success of an actual auction mostly depends on the auctioneer. 

An auctioneer has an exciting and demanding job. The task is to guide the sale of properties or items to the person who offers the most money. 

Before starting the auction, the auctioneer must be thoroughly knowledgeable about the items for sale, including their background, worth and relevant information. This understanding will allow for the precise description of the items and response to any inquiries from potential bidders. An auctioneer must also ensure that all bidding protocols and regulations are conveyed to the attendees.

Conducting an auction can be an intense and dynamic process, with the auctioneer calling out the current bid and encouraging attendees to bid higher. To be successful, one must possess exceptional public speaking skills and the capability to quickly evaluate the audience and assess the level of interest among the participants. It is also crucial for an auctioneer to keep control of the auction and guarantee that all bids are genuine and follow the set rules.

Closing the Auction

An auction needs to be closed to finalise the sales of the auction items. Here are some of the things to remember when closing an auction:

  • Final call for bids

The auctioneer would make a final call for bids on each item that is still up for auction. This is typically done to give bidders one last chance to make a higher bid before the item is sold.

  • Declaring the item sold

Once the final call for bids has been made and no further bids are received, the auctioneer will declare the item sold to the highest bidder.

  • Payment and settlement

The guide would explain the payment and settlement process for the items that are sold in the auction. This could include information on payment methods, when payment is due and how buyers can collect their items.

  • Unsold items

The guide would explain what happens to items that are not sold in the auction. This could include options, such as returning the items to the seller, offering them for sale in a future auction or donating them to charity.

  • Closing remarks

The guide would include some closing remarks from the auctioneer, thanking everyone for their participation in the auction and providing any final instructions or announcements.

Helping Hand Group: Lending You a Helping Hand

If you need assistance with your next auction, we can help you.

The Helping Hand Group has positively impacted communities for over 25 years by helping various charities, community groups, schools and sports clubs raise funds. Our team makes fundraising events even more exciting by offering a wide range of enticing prizes, from once-in-a-lifetime vacations to priceless experiences, artwork, music, movies and sports memorabilia. Using Ballot Bidding®, electronic silent auctions or live auctions, Helping Hand Group has a successful history of raising funds for noble causes. Get in touch with us here. 

5 Superb Item Ideas for Your Next Live Auction

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If you have organised a live auction before, you know the importance of choosing the right items for the auction.

One vital thing to remember when choosing items for a live auction is that they should appeal to a wide range of people. Avoid items that are too niche or specific, as they may generate little interest. 

It’s also a good idea to steer clear of items likely to cause guest disagreements or arguments. You want your live auction to be enjoyable for everyone involved, so you must choose the items accordingly. 

Why Live Auction Is a Great Way to Fundraise

The live auction format is a great way to fundraise because it is interactive, engaging and exciting. Bidders can compete against each other in real-time, which drives up the prices of the items being auctioned. 

Additionally, the live format allows for a greater sense of community and connection among the participants. A live auction also generates excitement and energy around the event and the cause being supported.

What Are the Best Live Auction Items?

 

  • Art Collectibles

Art collectibles are always popular items at live auctions and can fetch high prices depending on their rarity and condition. Moreover, art collectibles can tend to appreciate over time. 

Popular items to consider are paintings, antiques and vintage wines. If you have any unique or unusual items, these can also be good to auction off. Artwork from well-known artists is also the crowd’s favourite.  

  • Experiences

Experience packages are another popular type of item to auction off. These can include a weekend getaway to tickets to a sold-out concert or show. People are always looking for unique experiences they can enjoy, so this is a great way to get them involved in the auction.

If you have any relevant items to current events or trends, these can also be good to auction off. For example, if there is a famous movie or TV show that everyone is talking about, you may get a reasonable price for related items. 

  • Holiday Packages

Holiday packages can be a great auction item because they often include airfare, hotel accommodations and other activities that can be difficult to purchase separately. By bundling these items together, holiday packages can offer significant savings over purchasing each item individually. 

Holiday packages often have a wide appeal, making them ideal for a live auction trying to raise money for a cause. Also, holiday packages can encourage bidding wars and generate excitement at an auction.

  • Jewellery and Watches

Jewellery and watches are good auction items for fundraising because it is easy to find bidders for these items. You can find many potential bidders by advertising in local newspapers or online. You can also offer a wide variety of jewellery and watches to appeal to different bidders.

One advantage of auctioning off jewellery and watches in a live auction is that it is relatively quick and easy. You can usually get the items ready within a few days, and the auction can be over in just a few hours. This makes it an ideal option for fundraising if you need to raise money quickly.

  • Memorabilia

Memorabilia is an excellent live auction item because it is unique and can be very valuable. It can also be a great conversation piece and help raise money for a good cause. If you are looking for a live auction item that is sure to get people talking, then memorabilia is a great option.

Some examples of good memorabilia to auction off include:

  • Autographed sports memorabilia
  • Signed celebrity photos
  • Historical documents
  • Rare coins or stamps.

These are just a few examples—the sky’s the limit to memorabilia that can be auctioned off. It depends on what your particular audience is interested in.

How Can I Make a Live Auction More Fun?

One way to make an auction more fun is to add elements of competition. For example, you can have a bidding war between two or more people interested in the same item. This will not only make the auction more exciting but also help to drive up prices.

Another way to add excitement to an auction is to offer items that are not commonly available. This could include rare or vintage items or even one-of-a-kind items. These things are sure to generate interest and excitement from potential buyers.

Finally, you can create a more fun and festive atmosphere at your auction by decorating the space in a theme that fits the occasion. For example, if you are holding a holiday auction, you could decorate the room with Christmas decorations. This will help set the mood and make the auction fun for everyone involved.

How to Get Items Donated for Charity Auction

If you want items donated for your live auction or charity auction, you can do a few things. Firstly, try reaching out to local businesses or organisations interested in donating items. 

You can also look for online auctions or even garage sales where people may be willing to donate items. Lastly, ask family and friends if they would also be interested in donating items.  

Helping Hand Group Auction Services: Lending You a Helping Hand

Ever wish you could get a little help with your upcoming live auction?

We, at the Helping Hand Group, are here to help you through the entire auction process, from start to finish. You can count on us for all your auction needs!

Contact us today to learn more about our services.

Charity Auctions For Beginners

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Putting up charity auctions is a fun and exciting way to engage donors whilst raising money for your mission. The fundraising event may be engaging and less stressful for the people involved, but the planning is challenging, especially if you’re a beginner. 

You might have multiple questions about fundraising events, but the most important one you should ask is, ‘How do charity auctions work?’

Whilst we will guide you with the planning that goes with local charity auctions, be enlightened that fundraising events over the past decades have changed in terms of organising. With charity auctions today, we integrate new technology and use digital marketing to invite people or hold online auction events. 

Read on to find out how.

 

What Is the Key Purpose of a Charity Auction?

The evolving technology helps make things easier. It accounts for new factors to track and additional logistics to consider. However, preparation and planning are critical to a successful and profitable fundraising auction. 

Charity auctions can be in the form of a live auction, silent auction, online auction or a combination of the different types. Any non-profit organisation or individual can host a fundraising event for a cause. 

Live auction events have the appeal of being social and lively in nature and can drive the urgency to bid; however, this can be very costly and requires planning. On the other hand, online auctions are easy to plan and can engage participants from anywhere in the world. But it’s hard to maintain their attention and may not drive the urgency to buy the items you’re selling.

Each auction type has its benefit and can engage in its way, but it’s best to remember that fundraising auctions are flexible and can fit your non-profit organisation’s needs. The primary purpose of any fundraising event is to raise money, whether it’s for a specific campaign or an overall cause. 

 

What Kind of Auction Should You Hold?

You may already have fundraising ideas but have difficulty deciding which auction type may fit your fundraising event. You may also imagine bid paddles, a five-course meal and an auctioneer calling out the items and the amounts. But you’re not limited to only a live auction event. You can choose from different types, each of which has its benefits. 

Here’s a breakdown of each type:

• Silent Auction

A silent auction is an in-person event different from the usual live auction type. One significant difference is the absence of an auctioneer. All the items are placed on a table for free browsing of the participants. If interested, they can write their bids on a small piece of paper and put them in a box beside the item. 

At the Helping Hand Group, the classic paper-and-pen silent auction format is called Ballot Bidding®. We design and print our Ballot Bidding® forms, which include information about the auction items. 

With newer technologies, you can also opt to use mobile bidding software where participants can conveniently bid using their smartphones. An electronic silent auction lets your guests engage directly whilst on their mobile device.

In a silent auction, the organisation has the opportunity to engage with the donors. But one disadvantage of silent auctions is the absence of an auctioneer to drive them to bid.

• Live Auction

Live auctions are the most engaging and fun type of auction. The bidding can happen fast and can be highly engaging for donors. Donors place bids by raising a bid paddle and calling out the amount they’re willing to pay. 

The only downside is that organisations may not have time to interact with the donors since the event tends to follow a structured format. An option to go around this is to combine a silent auction with the regular live auction to provide ample time for organisations to interact with the donors and other participants. 

• Online Auctions

With an online auction, you can invite participants from around the globe. A vital prerequisite, however, is putting up an online auction site. This site features images of the items and product descriptions with button prompts to indicate your bid. 

Before bidding, registration is required with all essential details, such as credit card number and shipping address. Also, ensure that your auction site has strong website security and that all confidential information about your participants must be encrypted and stored safely. 

The disadvantage of online auctions is the inability of organisations to interact with donors face-to-face. However, online auctions can be paired with any in-person auctions to create more options for donors and participants. You can also have the online bidding open before the in-person event to allow ample time for more participants to bid and thus raise more funds.

 

What Are the Other Steps to Remember?

There are other steps to remember to have the best fundraising event. These will ensure your participants and donors will want to attend again if you plan to set up another fundraising campaign. 

• Budget Costs and Creating a Goal

Budgeting accordingly and considering all costs before proceeding with the plan is imperative. The aspects you must consider include auction items, staff, venue, decorations, food, drinks and other miscellaneous costs. It would be better if you could ask for donations or volunteers to help plan the event, which will significantly cut costs. Ensure that the money you’re trying to raise is realistic and attainable.

• Have a Reliable Team

Having a team you can count on and trust is vital for these fundraising events and can make planning and logistics relatively easier to handle. Forming the following committees and hiring specific individuals can complete your staff:

 

  • Procurement team to solicit auction items
  • Event planning committee
  • Logistics committee
  • General committee for registration, clean-up and item check-outs
  • Auctioneer, auction spotters, auction monitors and emcee.

• Solicit Auction Items

One of the best ways to minimise costs when planning for a fundraiser event is to solicit auction items. Your procurement team does this early on during the planning phase and will leverage their connections with businesses and retailers to donate some of their products or services. A solicitation toolkit is a necessity for your procurement team and includes the following components:

  • Information about your fundraising event
  • Donation pledge forms
  • Auction invitations
  • Solicitation letter 
  • Auction item ideas
  • Charitable disclosure statements.

• Auction Promotion and Marketing

Getting your fundraiser event out there is one of the most critical steps to ensuring you have a successful auction. Whether by word-of-mouth or other means, there are multiple channels you can tap to make sure people participate and attend your event. 

Perhaps the best option is to have a charity auction site that has all the important details to eliminate the need to print physical auction catalogues. Plus, the website link can easily be shared via social media or other online platforms. 

 

Helping Hand Group Auction Services: Lending You a Helping Hand

The Helping Hand Group has been providing auction services you can trust since 1997. Our expertise in live and silent auction events has helped multiple clients raise funds for leading charities, schools, communities and other clubs. Our assistance comes at no cost, and we’ll see through your event from planning, setting up and  until the auction event finishes. 

Are you looking for fundraising ideas on a budget? Let us give you a helping hand. Connect with us and we can arrange a consultation session. 

How Important Is a Fundraising Auctioneer to the Success of Your Live Auction?

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A successful auction doesn’t happen by accident. It takes careful planning and a lot of hard work. And, one of the most important factors in the success of your event is having a great fundraising auctioneer.

A fundraising auctioneer is responsible for getting bidders excited and driving up prices, it’s essential to choose someone with the experience and skills necessary to make your event a success. So, how do you go about choosing the right auctioneer for your live auction? Read on to find out.

What Is the Role of the Fundraising Auctioneer During a Live Auction?

A fundraising auctioneer helps generate excitement and encourage bidding on items. The auctioneer should be engaging and enthusiastic and should work to get the crowd involved in the action. 

Auctioneers can play a critical role in ensuring that a fundraising event is successful. In addition to generating excitement and encouraging bidding, they can also provide important information about the items up for bid. They must be familiar with the items up for bid so they can provide information about them as needed. Their experience and knowledge can be invaluable in helping to ensure that a live auction raises as much money as possible for the organisation.

Qualities of a Good Auctioneer

An auctioneer is a professional who conducts auctions. Auctioneers are typically used in settings where goods or services are being sold to the highest bidder. This could include everything from antiques and collectibles to real estate and automobiles. An auctioneer must possess a number of qualities to be successful, including:

  • Good Communication Skills: A good auctioneer must be an excellent communicator. This means being able to speak clearly and concisely, as well as being able to engage with the audience who attends a live auction. An auctioneer must also have the ability to think on their feet and come up with new ideas on the fly.
  • Charismatic Personality: A successful auctioneer must be able to capture the attention of the audience and keep them engaged. This means having a charismatic and energetic personality.
  • Confidence: A good auctioneer must be confident in their abilities. This confidence will reflect in the way they handle the program and help to build trust with the audience.
  • Knowledgeable: A good auctioneer must have knowledge about the items they are selling in an auction in Australia. This knowledge can come from personal experience or from research. So when there are queries, they can easily be handled.
  • Organised: A good auctioneer must have a clear plan and follow it through to completion. They must also be able to keep track of the bidding and ensure that all bids are recorded accurately.
  • Enthusiastic: A good auctioneer must be enthusiastic about the items they are selling. Such energy will be contagious and will help to generate excitement among the audience.

Tips for Working With an Auctioneer to Ensure a Successful Event

The auctioneer is your greatest asset when hosting a live auction in Australia. They help ensure that the event will run smoothly and that everyone is able to participate. 

Here are a few tips for working with an auctioneer for a successful event:

  • Make sure that you have a clear understanding of what you want the auctioneer to do. You should have a discussion with the auctioneer before the event to make sure that they understand your vision.
  • Be prepared to answer any questions that the auctioneer may have. They will likely want to know more about the items that are up for auction and the event itself.
  • Be sure to give the auctioneer a list of items that are up for auction. This will help them to be better prepared and will allow them to give more accurate information to the attendees.
  • Be available during the event to answer any questions that people may have. The auctioneer will likely be busy during the event, so it is important that you are available to answer any questions that people may ask.

How Do You Choose the Right Auctioneer for Your Organisation or Event? 

When it comes to hosting a successful live auction or any event in Australia, one of the most important factors to consider is who will serve as your auctioneer. The right auctioneer can make all the difference in terms of generating excitement and driving up bids.

Here are some tips on choosing an auctioneer for your next event:

  • Consider the Type of Event You’re Hosting

The first step is to think about the overall tone and feel of your event. Are you hosting a gala? A fundraiser? A corporate event? The type of event you’re hosting will help guide you in terms of choosing an auctioneer that’s a good fit. For example, if you’re hosting a black-tie affair, your auctioneer should be in a formal suit. If it’s a casual event, let the auctioneer make the event in a lighter mood and funny.

  • Determine the Style of Auction You’re Having

Another important factor to consider is the style of auction you’re planning. There are two main types of auctions: live and silent. Live auctions are typically more fast paced and allow for a lot of audience interaction. Silent auctions, on the other hand, are more low key and give guests time to peruse the items up for bid. The type of auction you’re having will play a role in choosing an auctioneer that’s a good fit.

  • Consider Your Audience

It’s also important to think about your audience when choosing an auctioneer. What age group will be in attendance? What is their level of interest in the items up for bid? What is their overall demeanour? These are all important factors to consider when making your selection.

  • Do Your Research

Once you’ve considered the factors above, it’s time to start your search for the perfect auctioneer. Talk to friends and colleagues who have hosted similar events in the past. Ask them for recommendations. You can also search online directories or attend industry events to find potential candidates.

  • Make a Shortlist

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to narrow down your options. Make a list of your top three to five choices and reach out to each one to learn more about their services.

Helping Hand Group Auction Services: Lending You a Helping Hand

If you’re looking to host a few successful fundraising ideas in Australia, it’s important to work with a professional auctioneer. The team at Helping Hand Group has years of experience in hosting and running successful auctions.

We also understand the importance of getting the right items in front of the right people, and we have the contacts and resources to make your event a success. Contact us today for more information or to get started planning your next fundraiser.

Online Auction Tips: How to Avoid Buying Fake Sports Memorabilia

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Australians are passionate about their sport, and many of them like to collect official memorabilia as a way of showing their support. However, with the popularity of online auctions, it has become increasingly difficult to know whether you’re buying official Australian sports memorabilia or not. 

How can you tell that a signed memorabilia is fake? And how can you protect yourself against this fraud? Check the following tips.

What Is Sports Memorabilia?

Sports memorabilia is official, licensed merchandise that commemorates a particular athlete, event or team. It can include items like jerseys, balls, trading cards and bobbleheads. Australian sports memorabilia typically features iconic athletes or teams from popular sports, such as cricket, rugby, football, tennis, golf or basketball.

How Can You Tell Fake Signed Memorabilia?

To know if a signed memorabilia is genuine, here are some tips to identify them:

Turn the Signature Upside Down

Forgers, no matter how good they are, can still have the difference of strokes on fake signatures. Turn them upside down and you will see ‘objectively’ the difference in some strokes. 

Be Wary of Stamped Signatures

If the signature is flat, then it’s most likely a facsimile. Perfect example to check if a signature is authentic and signed by a sports icon is the signature on a baseball. Understandably, the production of balls sometimes is marked by the maker with their logo. But if the signature looks as flat as a logo print, then, it wasn’t penned by the sports icon himself.

Take a Good Look at the Ink

To authenticate an autographed piece, you’ll need to look for stamps that have been applied at the same time and with pigment. 

The more ink on one edge versus another will give away how old it might be; if there’s barely any difference in colour or appearance between different areas then chances are good this signature never left its maker’s hand.

Check the Colour 

To determine whether a signature is real, you can use the following three tests. If it seems too light or there’s equal pressure applied throughout then chances are that your star has signed off on something less than genuine; signers who have shaded purple ink will most likely be fake as well. 

However, if their signatures glow in shades of silver-blue like some celebrities do (such as Paris Hilton), this might mean they were stamped with an official seal instead. 

Consider the Date and How It Was Signed

The way in which an autograph is signed can be used as a clue to its authenticity. Autographs dated before 1960 should have been written with felt pens, but those from this period typically use ink and not pencil or pen marks on paper (which would leave behind imperfections).

How to Avoid Buying Fake Sports Memorabilia

1. Be Wary of Out-Of-This-World Deals

Too-good-to-be-true deals are questionable. As a sports memorabilia buyer, you should watch out for people selling low-priced sports memorabilia. A $100 item claiming to have been worn or used by a famous athlete seems unlikely genuine. These types of iconic memorabilia signed or worn can sell for millions of dollars.

2. Check the Company’s Background 

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission recommends performing an online search with the business name and ‘scam’ or ‘rip-off’ to see if others posted reviews about them. 

Before buying, make sure they have a phone number where you can contact customer service should there be problems after purchase, as well as accessible address information. Doing so may help you resolve issues quickly without having to go through long journeys back home only furthering your frustration levels along.

3. Check If the Website Is Secure 

To ensure that you’re safe when purchasing from a website, look for the ‘s’ at the end of the domain address. If this does not appear or if there is no SSL certificate installed then it may be risky to enter your credit card information on their site as they could potentially take advantage and use your personal data for fraudulent transactions.

4. Make Use of Your Credit Card 

The best way to ensure that your Internet transactions are safe and secure is by paying with a credit card. Credit cards provide more fraud security, which means there’s no liability for any unauthorised purchases made on the site.

5. Check If They Have Certificates of Authenticity 

Be careful when donating sports memorabilia to charity auctions. Some scammers hope they can appear generous by donating fake items, but you’ll know if an item is real for its price valuation and authenticity rating before bidding on it. 

If there’s any doubt in your mind about whether the piece is actually used for what appears as though it should be, then don’t bid—just directly donate to the charity (whether monetary or otherwise).

6. Engage Only With a Reliable Supplier

So, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting out, it’s important to do your homework before spending big bucks on sports memorabilia. Keep an eye out for the telltale signs and remember that if it seems too good to be true, it probably isn’t. 

If you’re about to do a fundraising auction, get your sports memorabilia only from a trusted provider like us at Helping Hand Group. 

Helping Hand Group Auction Services: Lending You a Helping Hand

At Helping Hand Group, we always strive to source new and exciting items that will attract guests at fundraising events. We offer only genuine auction items like sports memorabilia on a consignment-type basis. So, if you want to use sports memorabilia as your auction items, you can be confident that you are auctioning off genuine pieces from us.

If you need help with your fundraising event, we are here for you. From setting up item displays, managing auctions and taking care of the payment, removal and shipping of items, we can do it for you. 

Contact us today with any questions or auction queries you may have. We would be more than happy to help!

Live Charity Auctions: What to Sell?

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Live charity auctions are among the most effective fundraising events that many organisations use to raise money and finance their respective causes. For your event to be successful, you should select all the items that will appeal to your organisation’s donor base and ensure that these are something they would want to bid on.

Learn more about live charity auctions and see what items sell best.

What Items Sell Best at Auctions?

Different types of items sell well at live auctions, ranging from high-end collectibles and jewelry to more everyday household items like appliances or electronics. But, of course, the key to success when selling at live auctions is determining which items have the potential to fetch a reasonable price.

One important thing to consider when deciding what items to sell at live auctions is the current market demand for that type of item. You can look at online listings for similar items, as well as examine recent sales data and trends in the live auction industry. Items that are currently in high demand and have a history of selling well at live auctions are more likely to be successful.

Another thing to keep in mind when selecting items for live auctions is the potential pool of buyers. For example, suppose you’re auctioning off a piece of jewelry. It is important to consider whether there is a large audience of potential buyers interested in that particular type of item. Live auctions tend to attract a more affluent group of bidders, so it’s important to choose items that appeal to these buyers.

Some items that commonly do well at live auctions are as follows: 

  • Vacation packages
  • Gift certificates 
  • Experiences 

People are often willing to pay top dollar for these items because they know they will be able to use them and enjoy them. So if you are looking to maximise your profits, offering these types of items is a good way to start.

Another thing to consider when choosing items for your live auction is the event’s timing. For example, during a busy season, such as the holidays, you might want to focus on more popular or in-demand items that people will be willing to pay top dollar for. This might include the following.

  • Tech gadgets
  • Jewellery
  • High-end home goods

However, if the event is during a slower time of year, you can get away with offering more unique or niche items that might not be as popular but can still attract some attention and fetch a reasonable price.

No matter what you choose to offer at your live auction, remember that the key is to appeal to as many people as possible. With many items to offer, sometimes it is best to group them into categories, so bidders will have more choices to make and turn the event exciting. 

How Can You Make an Auction Fun?

People love surprises. If you are able to offer exciting items for bid, chances are people will bite for them.

Here are a few suggestions:

  • Signed memorabilia
  • Travel packages
  • Tours (behind the scenes)
  • Custom and unique art pieces
  • Golf lessons
  • Live entertainment (concerts)

What Can Be Donated to a Charity Auction?

Charity live auctions can be a powerful fundraising tool for many organisations, offering donors the opportunity to give back while also getting something in return. When deciding what items your donors should donate to live auction events, several factors should be considered.

  1. One of the most popular items commonly donated to live auctions is high-end jewellery. This could be anything from a diamond necklace or bracelet to luxury watches. These types of items are often in high demand due to their perceived value and the ability of potential bidders to wear them after the auction has ended.
  2. Other items that often do well at live auctions include rare art pieces, sports memorabilia or luxury travel packages. These items tend to be in high demand due to their exclusivity and desirability, making them excellent choices for live auction events.
  3. If you are looking for donors to a live charity auction or you ran out of fundraising event ideas, it is important to do your research. Look for an auction service company or organisation that offers auction items for your fundraising. 

Helping Hand Group Auction Services: Lending You a Helping Hand

If you plan to organise a live charity auction and wish to make the event a success, hiring a fundraising event expert would be helpful. Doing this will ensure that the fundraising will go well and release you from the pressure caused by the need to accomplish everything on time.

Begin your bidding wars through us. We, Helping Hand Group, will ensure that your live charity auctions will see success. We will help you organise from A to Z so that it will be no hassle on your part.  

We have the expertise to implement your cause systematically and seamlessly. We are the better choice when it comes to getting auction items that are not easily obtained elsewhere.  Our auction services can help you get the most profitable bids.

For more information, click this link here.

Silent Auctions: How to Increase Your Bids and Host an Unforgettable Event

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Silent auctions are among the most effective fundraising ideas that charitable institutions and other groups use to collect funds. However, the outcome of this helping hand activity heavily depends on the way it is organised. So, when planning to conduct a silent auction, make sure to have careful planning and comprehensive preparation. Aside from that, it is also best that you have a solid understanding of the following.

What Is a Silent Auction?

A silent auction is a type of auction conducted by allowing the bidders to submit their offers privately. This helping hand activity does not involve an auctioneer, and the buyers are allowed to make direct bids. Due to this setup, all the bidders don’t know each other. Also, the secrecy practised on the submission of the offers increases the chances of getting the higher price for the items offered.

How to Conduct a Silent Auction

Conducting a silent auction can be overwhelming, so consider the following steps when preparing for one.

Step 1: Set up an auction committee

Setting an auction committee is the first thing you should accomplish when planning to conduct a silent auction. By doing this, you will be able to create a team that will handle the essential aspects of this helping hand activity. This includes managing the tasks like venue setup, securing of items that will be auctioned, ticketing and marketing.

Step 2: Select the best venue

Selecting a good venue is an essential aspect of preparing for a silent auction. Doing this right will most likely boost the event’s chances of getting favourable results. When doing the selection, make sure to take into consideration a few crucial factors like the expected number of attendees, the availability of amenities that will be needed during the auction and more.

Step 3: Secure the items to sell

Secure all the items that you intend to sell at your event earlier. This will allow you to determine the quantity of goods that will be sold. Also, knowing the number of items that will be sold can help you develop a more effective strategy to sell them during the event.

In case there are a lot of items to sell, make sure to group these into packages. This ensures that the number of items that will be sold is not more than the number of bidders. The technique is also helpful in boosting the level of competition among bidders. Thus, your event will most likely earn higher bids.

Step 4: Pricing of items for auction

Have all the items up for auction properly priced. For best results, try to create a bid sheet for every item that will be auctioned. Make sure that the sheet includes the name and a brief description of the item, and the name of its donor. Don’t forget to include a few lines that the bidders could use to write their bids.

Step 5: Set up the registration process

Set up your helping hand event’s registration prior to its actual schedule. To do this, you can allow the attendees to register using some of the silent auction software, such as Silent Auction Pro, ClickBid, Xcira and more. You can also allow them to register a payment card to make the bidding process simpler.

Step 6: Set up the venue

Make sure to proceed to your helping hand event’s chosen venue earlier. The technique will allow you to check on the setup and implement the needed last-minute changes when needed. Also, coming in earlier gives you more time to fix some issues on the venue that might hinder the event’s success.

Step 7: Close the silent auction

Closing your silent auction well will help you establish a good reputation in the industry. Typically, you can spontaneously close the event. Doing so can encourage the bidders to keep on bidding for the items since they will not know when the auction will be closed.

Aside from that, you can also set a pre-planned end time to close your helping hand silent auction. To encourage the bidders to make more last-minute bids, make use of a countdown timer.

Why Conduct a Silent Auction

A silent auction is a must-have helping hand or charitable event for groups that want to raise funds. Many of them consider this as their preferred auction type because of the following.

      • A silent auction allows the selling of more items.
      • A silent auction can increase the retention rate of a donor.
      • A silent auction makes some of the attendees become organisation supporters.
      • A silent auction helps in extending the organisation’s donor base.
      • A silent auction is proven to boost the event’s revenue.
      • A silent auction is a great way to entertain guests.

How to Increase Your Bids?

A silent auction is a good way to raise money. However, the revenue obtained from doing the event depends on the bids that the bidders are offering in exchange for getting the items offered for sale. That’s why you need to learn how to increase the bids during the auction by doing extensive research on how it’s done. You can also consider the following tips.

1. Identify the items that will excite the donor

Given that a silent auction derives its revenues from the proceeds of the items sold to the attendees, you should ensure that these would excite them. To accomplish this, study and know your audience. Look for ways to identify the items that appeal to them. By doing this, they will most likely place higher bids on every item that will be offered during the auction.

2. Make use of mobile bidding

The use of mobile bidding apps available out there is an effective way to increase your silent auction’s bids. These apps allow you to put the bidding on the hand of every donor. In addition, this makes participating in the auction more convenient for you and the donors.

3. Seek help from experts

Seeking help from experts has always been the most effective way to increase your auction’s bids and make the event successful. Many fundraisers consider this technique their most preferred option. This is because hiring reputable service providers, such as Helping Hand, allows you to sit back and relax. Once hired, they will handle all the procedures needed to make your silent auction a success.

Helping Hand Auction Services

For years, Helping Hand has helped hundreds of clients get the best out of their fund-raising activities. Our years of experience in handling this kind of event make us highly successful every time.

We provide our services at no cost to our clients! We offer auction items on a consignment-type basis, and we cover the costs through the sale of the auction items that we provide. We set up the items at your event, manage the auctions, as well as the payments, removal and shipping. That’s how we help. For more details, contact us today.

Tips to Host a Successful Online Auction

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A growing number of nonprofit organisations are now adding online auctions to their fundraising strategies because of how effective they are at reaching their target audience. Now that everyone is adjusting to the new normal, looking for alternative ways to raise funds is necessary.

Typically, fundraising campaigns and initiatives provide nonprofit organisations with great help in raising money for their programs. But with so many aspects to consider, doing an in-person event can sometimes feel overwhelming. So, where do you start in hosting an online auction?

How do you organise an online auction?

#1 – Create a team

Handling everything by yourself is a considerable challenge. That’s why it’s best to create a team to help you with virtual auction execution. Having people to back you up can help you manage everything and designate particular tasks that you need to get done immediately.

#2 – Set realistic goals

Next, you need to determine your goals to help you stay focused throughout the project. You can start by establishing your budget, including the system or tools that you need. It’s also best to include the particular revenues you need to achieve and the engagement level so that you can plan the event effectively. A few of the goals you need to complete are getting new sponsors, promotions, stewarding your current sponsors and engagement.

#3 – Review your software

 

You wouldn’t want to have something go amiss during the live event. So, it’s best to check your system to get yourself familiarised with it. When looking for a software application for your event, it’s highly advisable to invest in a software application that you know will help you execute your plans. You might also want to take your time reviewing your toolkit to fill any of your knowledge gaps.

#4 – Create an item wish list

Any auction can only be as triumphant as the quality of your auction items. While there’s no surefire way of getting the best auction items your guests will want, it’s always helpful if you know where to start. One way to do it is by looking at your past auction event’s performance. Check your previous events and see what you did well and what you could have done better. Also, don’t be afraid to get creative when it comes to your auction items. They need to be interesting enough to draw attention to the event and encourage a bit of competition with everyone.

#5 – Create effective marketing strategies

You need to formulate effective marketing strategies for your plan to succeed. A few promotional techniques that you can consider include invitations, early registration promos and a couple of advertisements that can help you generate excitement from the crowd. Given that you’ll be holding online auctions, you should create compelling digital promos that encourage competition among the audience.

#6 – Create your online auction website

Once you’ve established your marketing strategies, it’s now time to set up your website for the fundraising campaign. You need to ensure that you can customise each page based on your event and the project’s mission. You can also put your donation appeal, auction catalogue and fixed-priced items, such as raffles and merchandise.

#7 – Plan the entire program

It’s best to create a virtual program that’ll complement the auction to capture your target market’s attention. The same with how you’d plan for a typical in-person party, you need to start planning a program that’ll give it the same vibes. You can begin with an introduction from your speakers, followed by an inspiration video. Then, start the live auctions for the first two items before having a break. You can then resume with the auction and end it with a special musical guest.

How do online auctions work in Australia?

Registration Process

When attending online auctions, you need to register first before you become a part of the event. That’s because online registration makes it easier for the organisers to track the items you’re bidding or selling. It also allows them to keep up with the bids and determine who’s winning. Additionally, online registration is an excellent way to build a database that contains both the bidder’s and the seller’s feedback.

When registering for an online auction in Australia, it’s highly advisable to set up a different online email account to your primary account to help you track the auction’s progress. Even more, setting up a separate email prevents you from getting spam messages into your primary account.

Winning bids

Every bid for the auction closes precisely at the time that the organisers scheduled it. If you’re planning to put up a few sales of multiple lots, then those with the highest bids at the end of each auction need to buy the item at the agreed price. Meanwhile, if no one bids above the set price or even meets it, the organisers will close the auction without any winner.

Once the virtual bids end, the buyer and the seller will communicate via email to make the payment arrangements. They can also discuss the delivery and other queries there.

How do you run a successful auction?

Get quality auction items

If you want to get your participants excited, it’s best to get auction items that capture their interests. The more quality items you’ll get, the more successful your fundraising project will be.

Captivating imagery

Another factor that you need to consider is the images and marketing copies that you’ll use for the event. Your marketing strategy will play a massive role in your event’s success. So, ensure that the images and copies will captivate your target market’s attention.

Use social media

You can use social media algorithms to know which content is best for your audience. Every platform has its unique idiosyncrasy. So, you need to understand what type of media will work well on each social media platform that you’ll use.

There’s no such thing as a can’t-miss formula when it comes to online auction marketing techniques. That’s why you need to find the one that’ll suit your project best.

If you need assistance with your live online auctions in Australia, send us a message at Helping Hand. We’ll be more than happy to lend a hand.

Multiple Live Auction Sale of Jerseys Raises SGD$26,000

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SOLD…and SOLD once more!

At times, Helping Hand Group can supply multiples of an auction item for fundraisers. This provides an opportunity for your live auctioneer to sell more than one of a particular item on your auction list. In a standard live fundraising auction, the auctioneer can work with two, three or more of the same auction item – whether it is a holiday package or limited set of signed memorabilia – to engage with the group of top bidders. When the bidding has reached the maximum point, the auctioneer can announce each of the top bidders (matching the number of multiples available) as winners. This can significantly boost funds raised for your cause!

Richard Ernster, Live Fundraising Auctioneer

Recently in Singapore at the VANDA White Boxing event, two sets of Pele and Maradona jerseys were available on auction – and both were sold in an exciting finish to the live auction. This resulted in SGD$26,000 instantly added to the total fundraised on the night!

Helping Hand Group’s program – Last Donor Standing – can also bring about multiple sales of a particular auction item for fundraisers. This program gets the whole room involved by having the auctioneer ask all guests to stay standing through rounds of bidding for an item while increasing the asking price until it sells. The last group of guests standing each win one of the items at the top bidding price announced.

Contact our team to learn more about how we can arrange multiples for your next fundraising event.

Jason Kazanis Helps Smash Fundraising Goal for Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia

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Jason Kazanis is one of the best fundraising auctioneers

Our event support team can also come with some fantastic live auctioneers that specialise in fundraising auctions!

Jason Kazanis – Auctioneer did an outstanding job at the recent Starlight Children’s Foundation Australia Funraiser Charity Dinner as the live auctioneer. His skilled work contributed to the event exceeding their fundraising goal by $65,000 – enough to help Starlight Children’s Foundation assist 1,900 kids. Fantastic!

A big thank you to Jason and the Starlight Children’s Foundation team for having us!

#success #teamwork