Seminars and Public Speaking: Navigating the Secondary Market
We've all heard stories of fantastic finds at garage sales and phenomenal prices being obtained at auction for an item found in a thrift store. We may cheer for the little guy that found the treasure, but what about the original owner who lost out? There are also stories of dealers that "stole" items from unsuspecting little old ladies, questionable ads referring to "Bernie Madoff" or "Seized Government" auction items, scams on e-Bay and Craig's list, heirs fighting over family heirlooms and more. Are these stories true? Unfortunately....yes. But, but all of these mistakes and scams can be avoided.
What is the "Secondary Market?"
The Secondary Market encompasses all selling of tangible personal property items that have been previously owned, no matter the venue or value.
Who participates in this market? 
Everyone. The Secondary Market includes the finest auctions held by Christies to the most modest garage sale in your town. It includes antique stores, consignment stores, ebay, vintage shops, and everything in between. Donating to Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and other charity organizations is also participating, as is selling to your neighbors and friends.
As someone ages, they may decide to downsize; gifting some belongings, donating others and selling a few. A collector may want to cull their collection by selling modest items and keeping the finest, or perhaps, sell the finest to get needed cash. Anyone holding a garage sale and everyone assisting an organization holding rummage sale is also participant.
How will this Seminar Help?
Did you do your homework so you don't "give away" anything? What are the different types of appraisals, which do you need, and when do you need one? Are you confident the items you're insuring are worth the premium you're paying? Maybe your jeweler offers a trade-up option and you'd love to buy that new necklace. Should you trade that bracelet you never wear or sell it outright? Would you know what to do if a loved one or friend passed away leaving you in charge as executor?
You're not alone if you answered "no" to any of the questions above.
The Speaker
Kathleen Pica - our owner/auctioneer, is a passionate advocate for fair and responsible dealing in the Secondary Market. With over 30 years experience as an estate liquidator, antiques dealer, consignment store owner, appraiser, and auctioneer, Kathleen is in a unique position to share a vast store of knowledge on a subject that will affect so many.
Kathleen has educated and entertained groups from 20 to 700 with her straight-forward approach to helping individuals and professionals navigate the sometimes treacherous waters of secondary market selling. Whether it's unwanted household furniture, a boat that's become more headache than fun, or an important 18th century English tea set from a prominent estate, Kathleen will give concise, factual answers to common problems.
She discusses how both buyers and sellers can avoid scams, together with easy tips on how to protect yourself in various situations. Kathleen will discuss what makes something valuable in today's market, how you can save money by investigating values, and where to get the information you need.
Kathleen speaks with humor and style leaving the audience with a new appreciation of an important subject that they have given little thought to before. Questions are welcomed and the discussion often takes turns and twists to accommodate the needs of a particular audience.
Good, better or best?
Without a doubt, the most common question asked of us on any given day is, "What's it worth?" Your organization can add dimension to the lecture by inviting attendees to bring one or two items for a verbal valuation and discussion. It's not unusual for several people to bring examples of similar items giving Kathleen an excellent opportunity to demonstrate visually what makes one item good, another better, and the third the best. When appropriate, Kathleen will discuss the current market value for the items too.
How do we book and what is the cost?
Each discussion is customized to fit your organization. The talk can be scheduled to last from 1 - 3 hours. Fees are reasonable and based on time, travel and accommodations when necessary, preparation and any out-of-pocket expenses that may be incurred. For more information or to engage Kathleen for an event, send us an email or give us a call, 239-262-7333.
