Q & A with BB Realty & Auction Owner Mary Thiessen

During a recent auction conducted by BB Realty & Auctions in Kearney, MO, we had several important conversations with our client before the auction ever began. These discussions played a key role in helping the sellers feel comfortable and confident choosing our auction company. We believe these are the kinds of questions every seller should ask their auctioneer when preparing for an estate auction or farm auction. Clear communication before auction day always leads to better outcomes for everyone involved.

Every auction is different, and working with an experienced, professional auctioneer helps ensure the process runs smoothly and with less stress. At BB Realty & Auction, we encourage clients to ask questions early so expectations are clear and there are no surprises.

One concern our client had was about personal belongings they needed to leave behind but did not intend to sell. Because the auction was scheduled to begin immediately after their departure, they wanted to know what would happen to those items and whether our team would work with their loved ones to retrieve them later. We assured them that yes, we help coordinate these situations. A professional auctioneer understands that auctions do not always take place under ideal circumstances—especially during estate liquidations—and flexibility is often necessary.

Another question the client asked was whether items not meant to be sold could be boxed up and protected for later pickup. Our team separated those non-auction items, carefully boxed them, and placed them in a secure shed so they could be retrieved after the auction concluded. This is just one example of how BB Realty & Auction manages personal property with care and respect while still maintaining an organized and efficient auction environment.

The client also asked if reserves could be set on higher-value items to protect their property. We explained that our company does offer reserves on select items and that we recommend working closely with your auctioneer when setting them. While reserves can be an important tool, it is equally important not to set them unrealistically high. As experienced auctioneers, we help guide clients toward fair, market-based reserve prices, even when that advice may not align perfectly with emotional expectations. Setting reserves too high can lead to disappointment or seller’s regret, especially with trailers, trucks, cars, farm equipment, or other valuable assets.

At BB Realty & Auction, we want buyers to receive a fair deal, but our primary responsibility is always to the client who has hired us to conduct their estate liquidation or estate auction. We are committed to helping our clients receive full and fair market value while also educating them on the difference between perceived value and true market value. This is why transparency and open communication are essential throughout the process.

We encourage sellers to ask questions, understand every detail, and work closely with their auction company from start to finish. When expectations are clear before auction day, the result is a smoother, more professional, and more successful auction experience for everyone involved.

If you have any questions for our owner, Mary Thiessen, please contact us anytime. We’re always here to help.