GOING once, going twice ... sold!
Kellyville resident and Benson Auctions director Stuart Benson scored the opportunity to auction for Gold Coast couple Jess and Ayden at The Block: Triple Threat finale.
"I booked my flights as soon as I hung up from Jess's initial phone call," the Castle Hill-based auctioneer said.
Through the magic of the internet, Jess and Ayden's plasterer — who follows Benson Auctions on social media — suggested they meet with Mr Benson. The rest is history.
"A lot of my motivation to excel on auction day stems from my relationship with Jess and Ayden," the father-of-four said.
"This is an opportunity to provide a deserving young family with a great foundation for their future.
"What you see on TV is what you get in real life with these two — they're just honest, lovely, hard-working people, and I can't wait to get back down to South Yarra and give it everything I've got."
When asked if he was anxious, given the previous The Block auctions flopped, Mr Benson said just the opposite.
"I'll treat this listing as I do all of my auctions, so in that respect I'm eager and excited to get Jess and Ayden the best result," he said.
"There are two ways of looking at last season's results: from a competition standpoint some of the couples obviously didn't make as much money as they'd have hoped, however all five properties sold above reserve.
"Under the hammer, five out of five is a perfect day at the office for an auctioneer or agent."
Mr Benson said the right marketing mix, including the use of video, social media, well-conducted inspections and communication with buyers ensured a smooth experience.
"Auction day falls into place when the groundwork is executed to perfection. It's all the behind the scenes stuff."
"I'm working with Adam Joske of Gary Peer and Associates and we have some exciting ideas around marketing and engagement, all aimed at making auction day a big success."