Auction Winner Guide
Everything you need to know about winning and collecting auction items
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What Happens When You Win an Auction
Immediate Notification
You'll receive an in-app notification as soon as the auction ends if you're the winning bidder.
Email Confirmation
A detailed email will be sent with your winning bid amount, payment instructions, and seller contact information.
Access to Winner Dashboard
View all your wins in the "My Wins" section, where you can track payment status and manage your purchases.
Payment Process
Important: Payment must typically be completed within 24-48 hours of winning to secure your items.
Payment Methods
- Online Payment: Credit/debit cards through our secure checkout (coming soon)
- Cash: Accepted at pickup for most sales
- Check: May be accepted with prior approval
What's Included in Your Total
Collecting Your Items
Pickup Process
- 1.Complete payment before arriving at the pickup location
- 2.Bring your confirmation email or receipt
- 3.Arrive during the scheduled pickup window
- 4.Present ID matching the winning bidder's name
- 5.Inspect items before leaving the premises
Bring Help for Large Items
Estate sale companies typically do not provide loading assistance. Bring appropriate help and equipment for large or heavy items.
Shipping Options
Some sellers offer shipping for additional fees. Options may include:
- • Small items: USPS, UPS, or FedEx
- • Large items: Freight shipping or white glove delivery
- • Local delivery within a certain radius
Important Timelines & Deadlines
24-48 Hours After Winning
Payment must be completed or your items may be offered to the next highest bidder
2-5 Days After Auction
Typical pickup window for most estate sales
7-10 Days for Shipping
If shipping is arranged, items typically ship within this timeframe
Forfeiture Warning: Items not picked up within the designated timeframe may be forfeited without refund.
Understanding Fees & Charges
| Fee Type | Typical Range | When Charged |
|---|---|---|
| Buyer's Premium | 10-20% | Always |
| Sales Tax | Varies by location | If applicable |
| Credit Card Fee | 3-4% | If paying by card |
| Shipping | Actual cost + handling | If requested |
Example: If you win an item for $100 with a 15% buyer's premium:
• Winning bid: $100
• Buyer's premium: $15
• Subtotal: $115
• Sales tax (8%): $9.20
• Total: $124.20
Contacting Sellers
When to Contact the Seller
- • Questions about payment methods
- • Arranging shipping for items
- • Special pickup arrangements
- • Issues with item condition
- • Unable to pickup during scheduled times
How to Contact
Common Issues & Solutions
Missed Payment Deadline
Contact the seller immediately. They may offer a grace period, but items could be offered to the next bidder.
Prevention: Set reminders and pay as soon as possible after winning.
Can't Make Pickup Window
Contact the seller ASAP to arrange alternative pickup or authorize someone else to collect.
Prevention: Check pickup times before bidding.
Item Condition Issues
Document with photos and contact the seller immediately. Most sales are "as-is" but significant discrepancies should be addressed.
Prevention: Ask questions and request additional photos before bidding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cancel my winning bid?
Generally, no. Winning bids are binding contracts. Non-payment may result in being banned from future auctions.
What if someone else picks up my items?
Only authorized individuals with proper ID and receipt can collect items. You can authorize someone else by notifying the seller in advance.
Are returns accepted?
Most estate sale items are sold "as-is" with no returns. Always inspect items carefully before bidding.
What if I win multiple items?
All items from the same sale can typically be paid for and picked up together. You'll receive one combined invoice.
How do I know my payment is secure?
We use secure payment processing (Stripe) for online payments. Always verify you're on the official Estate Sale Map website before entering payment information.
Need More Help?
Seller Issues
For sale-specific questions:
Use the messaging system or contact info provided in your confirmation email