It seems there are endless ways to offload our “stuff” these days. From eBay to letgo, and Craigslist to OfferUp, if you want something gone there’s an avenue to get rid of it. That’s without considering the classic yard sale or even donation. But what if you’ve got treasure on your hands, or do and don’t know it?
For What It’s Worth
Edwin Blackwell Bailey eliminates the guessing game when determining the worth of belongings. Bailey and his wife, Shannon, own the family-operated business, Blackwell Auctions. For more 20 years, Edwin Bailey has been buying and selling. While he’s a certified appraiser, licensed auctioneer, and editorial researcher with a journalism background, he says those skill don’t always amount to much in his field.
Without pretending to know it all, Edwin makes it his mission to fact-find in order to leave consignors confident that they’re getting the most for the things they’re parting with. “The next best thing to knowing something is knowing where to find it,” he said, “or who does know it.”
A large portion of the business is through referrals, which speaks to the level of trust the Baileys have established. While respecting the emotional value associated with things like family heirlooms, Bailey takes the time to educate consignors so they feel equipped to make the best decisions.
He’s also not afraid to say “no.” When considering a piece for consignment, Bailey has to consider a myriad of things: Is it interesting? Unique? Does it have universal vs. local appeal? Is it valuable outside of the retail sense, in its level of authenticity and condition? If he does not accept an item, he can turn to other sources, even competitors, to whom he can and will refer clients.
The Consignor Comes First
Blackwell Auctions works with both buyers and consignors, and Bailey stresses that his first priority is to consignors. His role is to secure the best prices for them, finding “the most interested buyer, for the most interesting stuff.”
The most motivated buyers aren’t always locals. In fact, most aren’t. A significant percentage of Bailey’s sales are online, sometimes overseas. For unique items, he traditionally has hunted down buyers who not only weren’t aware they needed said item but also had no idea it even existed. He ha found distant relatives to artists whose work came into the gallery, for example. It requires diligence on his part, but Bailey is committed to finding not only a good home for objects, but also a home with buyers who will treasure them the most, “the buyer who will sacrifice to have it.”
Start the Conversation
If you have something that could be of value, let Bailey know, and he will determine the best course of action. If the intention is to move stuff, he is willing to make a home visit for a free evaluation. The auction gallery will accept a single item or many. Giving out realistic expectations is a primary focus. People often call for an evaluation, and what’s being discussed isn’t the most valuable item they have; they just don’t know it yet. The consignor isn’t the expert; that’s Blackwell’s role, and one he takes seriously.
At the very least, Bailey can give an honest second opinion to alleviate final reservations. His “greatest joy,” he said, “is giving people pleasant surprises.” It’s also his duty to assist people to “breathe easy” over the exchange of their goods. It’s a triple win if the exchange benefits everyone in the transaction; however, his focus is to cater to consignors, allowing them to breathe more easily and get the best prices for their items.
Let the Bidding Begin
Treasure hunters, celebrate. Bailey is adding monthly auctions. Each event runs between five and six hours, with about 500 items up for grabs. These are typically smaller items such as jewelry, militaria, collectibles and fine art. Registration is free, and in-person attendees can come and go as they please. Many sit in on just one or two lots.
The auction hall, at 10900 U.S. Highway 19 N, Clearwater, has comfortable seating, ample parking, and an on-site food truck during auctions. Participants also can take part in real time through three online outlets and the Blackwell Auctions app.
Take a Load Off, Mind and Home
Before you have an estate sale, hire an estate company, post your goods in an online market or give them away, contact Edwin Blackwell Bailey with Blackwell Auctions, telephone (727) 546-0200; email info@ blackwellauctions.com; website blackwellauctions.com
