-
Nonprofit Starting Bid - 50% of the retail value
-
Auction Retail Value: You will need to ask the donor for the retail value or do some research on the internet.
-
Bid Increment: 10% of the retail value
-
Buy It Now: (if applicable) - 2-3 times the item value
-
Nonprofit Cost - provided by the vendor
-
Nonprofit Starting Bid - 50% of the retail value (except for travel & vacation - see the respective page for info on that)
-
Auction Retail Value: 2 1/2 times the Nonprofit Starting Bid
-
Bid Increment: 10% of the retail value
-
Buy It Now: (if applicable) - 2-3 times the retail value
HOW TO PRICE RISK-FREE & DONATED ITEMS
Knowing how to price risk-free items as well as donated items is critical for auction fundraising success. Sometimes nonprofits price items too low and then do not generate very much revenue for their organization.
Most of our risk-free item vendors provide a recommended nonprofit starting price that is approximately 20% above the wholesale cost. However, there is the issue of perceived value on the part of the auction participant. If for example an item is priced at $160 but worth $1200, the potential bidder is going to have a hard time paying closer to the retail price because it started out so low.
With the exception of vacations and travel we recommend pricing ALL other risk-free items and donated items at 50% of the retail price. This not only ensures you make money but also appropriately frames the value of the item to the bidder, and justifies them buying the item at the higher price point.
Jewelry Example - Risk-Free
Nonprofit Cost:$175
Suggested Starting Bid: $270
Auction Retail Value: $545
Bid Increment: $55
Buy It Now: $1,090
.png)
Gift Basket Example - Donated
Donated Item: $0 Cost
Suggested Starting Bid: $175
Auction Retail Value: $350
Bid Increment: $25
Buy It Now: $650
