Auctions: What I Should Sell & How Does it Work?

How Do Auctions Work for the Seller?

When selling your items at an auction, you should expect one of four things to happen: your items will be sold for what you expected, for more than you expected, for less than you expected, or they might not sell at all. When you take your items to an auction house that not only boasts a vast collection of items, but that markets your specific type of item — that’s how you increase your chances of a great sale. 

Bodnar’s Auction is the largest, most trusted auction house throughout NJ. When sellers come to us with their beloved vintage, classic, or antique items, they can rest assured that they’re valuables are in the right hands and expect a fantastic outcome in their favor.

What You Should Consider Selling at an Auction

One of the most exciting parts about going to an antique auction house in NJ is watching others place value on your items that you personally may not have deemed valuable. Rather than gathering old or unwanted items, like games, furniture, clothing, or jewelry, and tossing them away, take them to a local auction. Collectors travel from near and far to get their hands on an antique rarity — and you may just have one sitting in your closet. Don’t let your precious items collect dust; bring them to Bodnar’s Auction. 

Sometimes antiques pile up from getting passed down from past generations; however, once stored away, they don’t always get a second glance. Whether you’re looking to sell items or buy them, here are five types of valuable antiques and items to look out for.

Early Asian Antiques

Artwork and antiques created in Asian countries do very well at auctions. Pieces from artisans that have designed Samurai swords, wooden furniture, military items from WWII, and pop culture collectibles are all sought-after. 

Mid-20th Century Furnishings 

As you sort through your classic gems, look out for mid-century furnishings that have a modern, futuristic design for its time. Collectors gravitate towards these pieces and are often willing to pay a reasonable price for them, too. 

Paintings by Listed Artists

Rare paintings turn up when you least expect it. If you have one laying around your home, you may not be sure what to do with it. At Bodnar’s Auction, our professional auctioneers are experts in determining the authenticity and value of early paintings. Antique paintings often turn up during estate sales, which is where many buyers show interest. 

1960’s Toys & Collectibles

If you’ve been holding onto toys and other collectibles, you could be sitting on something quite valuable. Over time, toys and comic books become extremely valuable and are one of the primary sellers at Bodnar’s Auction. 

Art Deco Design Furnishings

Art deco designs are very unique; they’re often crafted from solid oak and straight lines. They are known for their eye-catching geometric shapes and designs. For its time, art deco furniture had a very streamlined finish, making it valuable to this day.

If you’re unsure whether or not you’ve been holding on to a piece of significant value, visit one of our upcoming auctions to get an appraisal. Our local auctions in NJ host a wide range of pieces and works from various time periods, so you’ll be sure to get the deal you’re looking for.