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Starting the 2011 Auction Year

As you look forward to 2011, recognize that it really takes the first three weeks of January to "start" because buyers have to re-gauge values and are in a recovery mode from the relative inactivity of Christmas and New Years. The key to recognize (as a seller) is that by the end of January values will be as high as they have been since October; this is an optimal time to sell your 90-day units.

Foremost, contact your auction coordinator NOW to talk about a plan to pre-register your aged units in advance for the later part of January. Also, think a day or two ahead of your usual auction schedule to allow for weather delays transporters will incur and the additional reconditioning you will need as a result of the winter weather. Finally, broadcast to your sales managers that by January 30th, 90% of your oldest inventory MUST BE SOLD.

Having the knowledge and the tools in place needed to make early decisions in the auction business in January is critical. By putting your current 60-day aged vehicles under review now means your sales and management teams have a definite target and the plan of action ready to go starting the 2nd week of the new year!

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