PREAUCTION PLANNING Tips from an expert

A little preparation and knowing how auctions work can ensure you have fun and help your favorite cause, says Kip Toner, CEO of Kip Toner Benefit Auctions.
Set a budget. Have a sense of what you're willing to spend, keeping in mind it's for a charity.
Get the catalog in advance. Many are now online. Decide which items interest you most.
Bid early. If you're serious about an item, get in the bidding early. Auctioneers have a tendency to look for bids from people who've already been bidding.
Plan group purchases. Dinners for 10 or vacation packages for several families are common auction items. Figure out who you want to join forces with, and how much they're willing to commit.
Go easy on alcohol. Drinking too much won't help your decision-making, and a lack of attention may cause you to miss out on items you want.
Take your tax benefit. Find out the actual dollar value of what you bought. Whatever you paid over that is likely a tax-deductible gift.
Patronize the donors. Most auction items are donated, so give the donors some of your business.