by bfitz » Fri Jun 12, 2009 2:53 pm
I have two thoughts on getting rid of stuff on craigs list (etc).
1) If I want it gone, I price it to move.
2) If I care about value, I'll start higher than I hope to get and drop the price 5% a week until it goes.
Neither of these options helps you know the best price up front.
Another option: I've worked with an auctioneer who let me bring a big item or two with the understanding that I may bid on the item. If I buy it, no commission. They seem content to do this on big items because it takes just a minute or two for the chance to make $50 to $100. Advice if you do this: Establish a reserve price ahead of time with the auctioneer. Bid only if it looks like you won't reach it, and as soon as you do, stop bidding. This keeps the whole transaction legit without them having to worry about remembering the reserve price. For big stuff, I'd shoot for a 5% commission.