How do I know if my stuff is worth selling?

Many people have little idea of what their belongings may or may not be worth.  We don't expect you to know.  We can help with practical knowledge and advice. We have the experience to advise which items would do well at auction and those that won't. Sometimes the one thing you thought was nothing is the best thing you have. On the other hand, we often tell people, to their appreciation, what they can "safely throw away" with no remorse.

Is it worth my while or yours to come to my home for just one item?

Most likely it would be. However, we can discuss this with you on the phone. You  are welcome also to email photos if you can to johnwhiteauctions@yahoo.com.  It could be that there are other things you hadn't thought of or your one item may be very special. We would make an appointment that was convenient to visit with you, in your home or business, with no cost or obligation to you.

Do I need to organize or pull together my items for sale before our appointment?

No, the less work you do the better. We can look at items wherever they "live"--in the living room, bedroom, basement, attic, garage, barn, storage, wherever.....
Also, you could go a lot of unnessary work putting things together and then have to put them back. Let us do the work. That's what we do.

Do you specialize in only certain items?

Working twenty five years plus in the antique field and eighteen years plus in the auction business, we have knowledge in many different areas. What we don't know, we research and find out. We do not "specialize" per se in any particular items. However, we deal strickly in antique and collectible items only. We have successfully handled art work, sterling silver, jewelry, antique furniture, clocks, lighting, military items, military & historical, antique tools, toys, 20th Century Design, etc.

Am I better off consigning to auction, rather than selling on my own privately or at a yard sale?

We can advise you as to the best avenue for your items. For the most part, items of value or interest will do better at auction. The advantage of an auction is competition and exposure for your items. We have a large and varied, growing customer base of dealers and collectors to compete for your pieces. We research, photograph and catalog each item. We advertise extensively in antique trade publications (with huge circulations), on the internet, through direct mail, hand out fliers, email flyers and word of mouth.

Could you provide references if I wanted and are you licensed?

Yes, we are fully licensed (MA LIc #1988), bonded and insured. References can be provided if desired. We are also members of the Massachusetts Auctioneer's Association.

Can I attend the auction?

All auctions are public auctions and you are more than welcome to come. There is plenty of parking, concessions available and it is handicap accessible. You may not, however, bid on your items. Come, have a beer and a burger and enjoy the show......welcome.

How do I get paid and when?

We pay consignors very promptly, within approximately 30 days after the auction. You will be sent a check with a detailed listing of your item/s descriptions, total sale amount, minus commission.

How early do I have to get me items in to be included in the next auction/s?

It is advisable to get your items in as soon as reasonably possible. This is in order that they can be properly researched, cataloged, photographed  and advertised. However, we can also include items closer to the sale date, particularly if they fall within a general category or a category which has already been covered. If your items would do better being held for the next auction, we will advise you of that as well.

What happens if my item/s don't sell?

If your items are "passed" due to lack of interest, they may be held for the next auction, or they may be returned to you. We will determine if it is worthwhile to try the item/s a second time. If you want the items back  or we determine that there would be no further interest, you need to make arrangements to pick them up within a reasonable period of time after the auction.

We look forward to your business. Please feel free to call or email if you have questions.

email: johnwhiteauctions@yahoo.com

(508) 947-9281 John White

(508) 269-9275 Kathryn Black