Quote:
Originally Posted by itslow
The proof-of-funds weeds out the non-serious bidders.
A "serious bidder" is going to be willing to pay whatever their own personal maximum is, regardless of whether other "serious bidders" or non-serious bidders caused it to be reached. Everyone is looking for a bargain, even "serious bidders".
Shills hired by the auction company aren't going to be affected by the registration fee or a proof-of-funds requirement.
Charging $150 just for the "pleasure" of bidding from one's home computer is just a money grab.
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Auctions are a business that serves a need, and they are very good at what they do. They have a magnetism that turns spectators into bidders, and they use every tool at their disposal to do exactly that. Shills are a reality in the business of auctions and for that matter, in the business of sales of all manner of products from snake oil to real estate.