For collector car enthusiasts, it’s hard to beat the excitement of an auction. A single venue offers a wide variety of rare, valuable automobiles. Whether investing in a classic car, looking for a restoration project, or simply wanting a nostalgic ride, collector car auctions offer an incredible selection.
In the past, participation in an auction involved planning ahead, blocking out time on the calendar, potentially booking travel arrangements, and making hotel accommodations. Today, online auctions dramatically simplify the process and offer an impressive inventory of collector cars. In 2017, Proxibid.com’s online auctions offered more than 28,000 collector cars, representing more than $358 million in gross merchandise value.
To confidently participate in an online auction, follow these simple steps:
- Find a reputable auction site, like Proxibid.com, and research upcoming auctions. Before bidding, carefully read the description and inspect all photographs. Make sure the website offers a comprehensive risk management system and protects personal information from online fraud.
- Next, complete all forms required to participate in the online auction. Many sites, like Proxibid.com, allow registered participants to set up reminders for upcoming auctions, track cars of interest, and place prebids.
- Before bidding, it’s a good idea to research the car and determine its actual value. Online tools like Hagerty (https://www.hagerty.com/valuationtools) and NADA Guides (https://www.nadaguides.com/Cars/Manufacturers?from=classic) will define the car’s market value.
- Once the car’s value is determined, it’s time to set a maximum bid. It’s important to understand the terms of sale and additional fees that will be added to the final bid. These may include a buyer’s premium, transportation costs, taxes, and financing.
- Now, it’s time to bid. Online auctions offer two formats: Live and timed auctions. At live auctions, bidders can participate either in person or online. At Proxibid.com, online bidders can place a prebid before the auction or launch the bidding application during the auction and bid live online. To start, the auctioneer will begin with a prebid or call for an opening price. Buyers will bid competitively until no new bids are placed. The auction is over when the auctioneer calls “sold” or drops the hammer. Timed auctions only take place online for a set period of time, ranging from a few hours to several weeks. During Proxibid.com’s timed auctions, last-minute bids will extend the end time. So, there is no need to worry about a bidder sneaking in with a winning bid at the last second. The bidder willing to go the highest always wins.
- At the end of the auction, the winner will be e-mailed an invoice for the total amount of the purchase. Once the invoice is paid, arrangements will be made for transportation or to pick up the new automobile.
Online collector car auctions offer unmatched selection and convenience. Today, it’s possible to locate the perfect collector car and participate in an online auction anywhere around the world. The key is to use a secure site like Proxibid.com, which provides peace of mind and allows participants to bid with ease and confidence.