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Expert tips from former c&b employee to boost auction earnings

Expert Tips from Former C&B Employee | Boosting Auction Earnings Amid Platform Frustrations

By

Olivia Martinez

Apr 11, 2025, 07:27 AM

Edited By

Ritika Sharma

Updated

Apr 12, 2025, 12:35 PM

2 minutes of reading

A confident seller strategizing for an auction with a notepad and laptop

Increasing dissatisfaction among car enthusiasts is prompting sellers to seek guidance from a former employee of C&B on how to effectively navigate online auctions. This frustration highlights concerns over the self-service approach utilized by many auction platforms, including Bring a Trailer (BAT).

Context and Community Discontent

The shift to online vehicle auctions has significantly changed the marketplace dynamics over recent years. With the growing frustrations surrounding platforms, sellers are speaking out about inadequate support during the listing process. A former C&B employee is sharing valuable tips to help maximize auction outcomes.

Amid rising discontent, numerous sellers have expressed their struggles, particularly in the areas of reserve price negotiations and getting quality photographs of their vehicles. One seller lamented, "Iโ€™ve reached out for help, but responses have been lackluster." Another highlighted that even securing a photographer can feel like a daunting task, impacting potential sales momentum.

"Sellers want to feel supported, but what they are getting isnโ€™t cutting it," said one community member, summing up the collective sentiment of disheartened sellers. Interestingly, many are considering whether social media might offer a more engaging way to connect with potential buyers.

Solutions and Insights from the Community

Interestingly, feedback suggests the need for more personalized assistance. One user mentioned that "the White Glove department" could be a potential solution for sellers looking for direct support, while others pointed out the importance of having an active partner throughout the auction process.

  • "People want to discuss their decisions, not just deal with a bot," a seasoned seller remarked, emphasizing the demand for human interaction over automated responses.

  • Another user, who possesses years of experience in the auction industry, noted that consistent communication fosters trust and can lead to better sale outcomes. They also mentioned their efforts to create branded services that help clients curate reserve offers while maintaining personal connection via phone calls.

Current Status of Auctions vs. Private Sales

Discussions are heating up among car sellers regarding the effectiveness of auction platforms compared to alternatives like Facebook Marketplace. Many believe their vehicles are desirable enough to sell independently, leaving auction houses out of the picture. Frustration simmers over issues like enforceability of terms and conditionsโ€”the recent account of a seller battling against an attorney trying to back out of a deal encapsulates ongoing challenges in trust and security that sellers face.

Key Insights

  • โœ–๏ธ Seller frustrations are escalating due to insufficient support from auction platforms.

  • โš ๏ธ Personal support through services such as the White Glove department may address many concerns.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "Responses have felt minimal at best," a frustrated seller reflects on their experience.

  • ๐Ÿ As sellers reassess their strategies, conversations are leaning toward proactive approaches for marketing vehicles.

Sellers are increasingly questioning whether traditional auction methods can keep up with the demands of todayโ€™s market and their growing needs for support.