Auctions
A few random thoughts on this (..in no particular order)
1. Better merchandising in auctions houses (generally speaking) - pictures, notes/descriptions, etc.
2. Impulse, thrill of the competition. Versus other buyers, being outbid and getting "back in the game" (much like the impulse of live auctions, raising the paddle one last time) 'I'm not going to let him/her snag that card from me!" - Fixed prices don't give you that sense.
3. Momentary lapse of thought, outright forgetting or overlooking the juice. Fixed focus on the price looking reasonable, below market value .. only to bid, then realize that total cost may take you well above
4. Exposure. Some well-established, well-known auction houses have (or seem to have) greater name recognition, legacy, exposure. IE: Goodwin, REA, Huggins & Scott, etc. Example: Ask yourself how many times you geared up and bid strong/stayed in the game for REA - especially since they're (up to this year) once a year.
5. Peace of mind. There's (perceived and real) greater risk via eBay and private seller listings not knowing who you are dealing with, quality/authenticity of the card or merchandise, etc. Most auction houses stand behind what they sell and will protect buyers in cases that warrant.
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