Blog

One of the more frequently asked questions that we get when people are shopping our online auctions is: What do these icons mean? 

Furnishing a home can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when trying to balance style and budget. For many homeowners, the challenge lies in finding unique, high-quality pieces without breaking the bank. This is where estate sales in San Diego come into play. These sales offer a treasure trove of items that can transform […]

If you’re a seasoned online estate sale shopper, have you considered ditching the in-person crowds and embracing the convenience of shopping San Diego estate sales online? 

Whether you’re a seasoned reseller, an ambitious entrepreneur venturing into e-commerce, or an estate sale firm transitioning to the digital sphere, CalAuctions.com presents an enticing solution for your business.

Delve into the journey of San Diego estate sale treasures, from their humble beginnings in attics and basements to the bustling online auctions of San Diego.

California, the land of sun-kissed beaches, towering redwoods, and Hollywood dreams, is also home to a unique and fascinating event – the estate sale. If you’ve ever wondered what exactly goes on behind the doors of these sales, you’re in for a treat. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the mysteries of estate sales […]

The world of online auctions has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with estate sales and business liquidations becoming increasingly popular on digital platforms. As technology continues to shape the way we buy and sell, it’s essential to explore the trends that are influencing this dynamic industry. The Rise of Online Auctions: A Paradigm […]

When a business in San Diego faces financial distress or decides to close its doors, one critical decision looms large: selecting the right business liquidator. The choice of a business liquidator can significantly impact the outcome of the liquidation process. Therefore, making an informed decision is vital for business owners and stakeholders. In this article, […]

Whether you’re an established reseller, an aspiring entrepreneur looking to dive into the world of e-commerce, or an estate sale company looking to transition to the digital realm, CalAuctions.com offers a compelling solution for your selling needs.

Online auctions have transformed the way we buy and sell goods, creating a dynamic and competitive virtual marketplace accessible to people around the world. Whether you’re a seasoned bidder or a newcomer to the world of online auctions, having a strategic approach can greatly enhance your chances of success.  Ready to master the art of […]

We currently have an online auction – an absolute haven for those seeking classic Cadillacs, automotive parts, tools, and equipment to bring their dream vehicles to life. Whether you’re a seasoned car enthusiast or a passionate DIYer, this is the perfect opportunity to explore a wide range of automotive-related items.  To shed light on what […]

Liquidating an estate can be a complex and emotionally challenging process. Whether you’re settling the affairs of a deceased loved one or downsizing your own estate, understanding the steps involved and seeking professional guidance can help streamline the process. This article serves as a guide to liquidating an estate in the picturesque community of La […]

As the world becomes increasingly digital, so too do the ways we buy and sell art. Online art auctions have emerged as a popular and convenient alternative to traditional auction houses, allowing collectors and art enthusiasts from around the world to bid on and purchase works from the comfort of their own homes.  We currently […]

Shopping at San Diego online estate sale auctions can be a great way to find unique and valuable items at affordable prices. Here are some tips on how to shop online estate auctions effectively…

An upcoming La Jolla estate sale auction is generating excitement among antique collectors and home decor enthusiasts alike. The sale, which closes on April 11th, features a highly unique and historic estate in the heart of La Jolla and includes a wide range of unique and high-end items. If you don’t know, La Jolla, California […]

Reading the terms and conditions of an online auction platform is critical for ensuring a successful and satisfactory experience for both buyers and sellers. Understanding the fees involved can also help participants make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs.  Here are a few reasons why reading the terms and conditions and understanding the fees is […]

If you’ve been feeling the pinch of the economy lately, like many people you’re thinking of ways to save more money. We all know we’re not giving up that Starbucks coffee, so there has to be another way… While it’s tempting to fall for all those shiny new objects in big-box stores, there are TONS […]

If you’re looking for used restaurant equipment, commercial appliances, restaurant furniture, and supplies, you’ll want to check out this restaurant liquidation auction that is closing soon.  Zorbas Greek Taverna and Bar is closing its doors after 30+ years of business. The Founder of Zorbas, Chef Pashalis Koutzimbi, announced that he and his wife will be […]

If you’re in the Southern California area and thinking about liquidating estate assets, this article will answer some of the most common questions we get. Whether you’re downsizing your home, moving, or need to liquidate a family member’s estate, we can help sell just about anything.  Once you contact us, our estate specialist will set […]

If you’ve been to our website lately, you’ve probably noticed that we have a slightly new design. In this article, we’ll go over a few things that have changed.  If you’re new to our site…Welcome! Take some time to learn more about us. We recommend visiting the About page to learn more about what we […]

What’s the best way to sell estate items? This is a common question that people ask whether it’s downsizing an estate or liquidating a loved one’s assets. Selling estate items can be relatively quick and easy depending on the method you choose to sell.

With the rate of inflation rising dramatically, more people are thinking about starting a side hustle to make some extra cash. Many people are seeing success with reselling items via online auctions. There’s a potential to make thousands of dollars per month. Who knows, you might like it so much that you decide to quit […]

We’ve published a ton of articles on our blog over the years. If you’re new to our online auctions or have missed some of our posts, we recommend checking out our top blog posts of all time. 1) The Difference Between Vintage, Antique, and Retro An item’s age is one of the key determinants of […]

You see an item you like in an auction. You look at the pictures of the item and it looks highly valuable. Then you look at the current highest bid. You think to yourself, Wow! Nobody is bidding on this! The highest bid is only a few dollars. How can that be? You immediately place […]

If you’re unfamiliar with our online auctions, you may not be aware of all the different features that we offer to make bidding easier. Our goal is to make sure your experience is fun and hassle-free. In this blog post, we’ll cover a few bidding features that you may not know about. Watch List If […]

If you’re thinking about buying collectibles to flip real quick or you want to have a collection that will be worth money in the future, here are our top items to look out for: 1) Music-related collectibles It isn’t a stretch to say that we all have a favorite musician or band. Whether it’s vintage […]

Browsing through our online auctions can sometimes feel a little overwhelming. We often have hundreds of items to browse through. In this post, we’re going to talk about 5 items that are usually popular or are hot items due to their value. These are available in the upcoming Industrial Tools, Equipment, and Surplus Auction, and […]

The pandemic has changed how businesses are run. People have been laid off, quit work, or have decided that the regular 9-5 grind just isn’t for them anymore.  What has emerged is a large sector of people creating their own businesses from their passions or what was once just a hobby.  The online auction industry […]

There are piles of clothes that you haven’t worn in years. It takes you 30 minutes to find something you need in the kitchen. Your “guest” room has now become a dumping ground of unfinished projects. That’s when you know there’s a problem – or a potential problem. Stuff can affect your mental health. If […]

If you’re like many people, you probably spent more time at home last year than any other year. And if you’re like us, you grew a little tired of seeing the same decor day after day…over and over…and over. It’s time for a change of scenery, but maybe it’s not in the budget to do […]

You’ve probably heard the old adage, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure”, which is more true today than ever before. At least, that’s what we’ve noticed this past year based on the sales in our online auctions. So, before you throw out that “junk”, you may want to consider selling it first. Who wants […]

Because of the pandemic, it’s been difficult to hold large events or galas for fundraising. Charities and organizations really depend on these types of events in order to raise funds. People were able to socialize at these fun events in which items were auctioned off in person or there were silent auctions. Seems like such […]

Spring is right around the corner and it has been a busy couple of weeks for us! We have quite a few auctions coming up including a couple of fantastic estate sales that you simply do not want to miss, especially if you’re into vintage furniture and collectibles. These are just a few of the […]

We often get asked what are popular items or items that are hot-sellers in our online auctions, so we’re sharing our top items based on the past few estate sale auctions that we’ve had. Sterling Silver Whether it’s coins, jewelry, or flatware, silver always does well in our auctions. With the price of silver surging […]

As we wind down 2020 and head into a new year, we’d like to take a moment to thank you for being a customer and continuing to support us during these challenging times. Due to COVID, we’ve had to make some adjustments to our operations including limiting preview/inspection days, plus requiring appointments for pick-ups/removal days. […]

It’s that time of year again! We rack our brains trying to find that perfect gift for our loved ones. Sure, giving gift cards is easy, but we have a few ideas to make your holiday presents more memorable… Jewelry High-quality jewelry can last for decades. Every time that person puts on that piece of […]

Have you been thinking about getting rid of personal or business assets but haven’t really moved forward with it? We understand that it takes time to figure out what you want to sell and how to sell it, but after reading this article you might want to take action right away. How to sell your […]

You’ve probably heard or read about that person who found something in their attic that ended up being worth a ton of money. Could that person be you? You’d be surprised the things that could be worth alot of money hiding in your home. That old toy buried in a box, the piece of jewelry […]

There are many companies that overvalue their business assets and then end up settling for nothing more than the wholesale price. That’s usually what happens when you value items without thinking about the target market. However, when a company decides to sell assets through an online auction, the outcome is usually a little different. This […]

When people think of an industrial auction, they think of large machinery or equipment. If you’ve never shopped our monthly industrial auction, you might want to check out our latest one because it includes a wide variety of items…and there just might be something you need in it. From household appliances to tools, laboratory equipment […]

If you love collecting model trains, you can join a long lineage of collectors from the late 1800s to early 1900s who also share this passion. For some collectors, part of the fun is the “hunt” and discovery of model train treasures whether it’s in thrift stores, online shops, or through organizations like the Train […]

If you haven’t participated in any of our online auctions or it’s been a while since you visited our site, there have been a few changes to our processes. In this post, we’re going to cover these changes so that you’ll be more informed and hopefully have a seamless experience with us… Currently no inspections/previews […]

The world has been taken over by COVID-19, which makes an online auction a great go-to approach to sell off business assets. Here are five reasons to consider selling your business assets via an online auction… 1) Global Marketplace Reach If there’s a region that is accessible to your target buyers across the world, it’s […]

One of the most popular questions we’ve been getting lately is whether or not we offer shipping for items available in our online auctions. Although our auction house is based in San Diego, CA, we do serve customers all over the world. The short answer is yes, we do offer shipping! We don’t personally pack […]

When it comes to modern furniture, you can easily find multiple design alternatives to choose from. Despite the widespread popularity of neat and easy to assemble contemporary furniture, there is a section of the population that still has its heart on vintage décor and vintage furniture. Vintage Furniture has a Story to Tell When you […]

Adventure and treasures await in our latest Combined Assets Gallery Estate Sale. If you’re into vintage, collectibles, and antiques, we promise this is an online auction you don’t want to miss. I know, we probably say this all the time, but really, you might regret not checking out this auction. Here is just a sample […]

Industrial tools and equipment aren’t exactly cheap, so when you can find a good deal on them you should take advantage. Our monthly industrial tools and surplus online auctions may have just what you’re looking for. Before you start bidding on items, though, there are a few things you should know… 1. We often have […]

Are you thinking about buying a firearm online? The sale of firearms online is completely legal but is heavily regulated. It’s important to know what you’re doing before making any type of purchase. Purchase from reputable dealers. Make sure the seller is clear about their process. A seller should state somewhere on their website what […]

Maybe you’re thinking of upgrading your old restaurant equipment or you need to liquidate your business. How do you go about selling everything? Here are a few ideas and tips… Buy an ad in restaurant industry periodicals If you really want to target other restaurant owners and sell your used equipment, you could start by […]

If you love to collect antique items, you probably miss going out to flea markets and antique stores for treasure hunting. The majority of us are still confined to our homes due to the Coronavirus pandemic, however, that doesn’t have to stop you from shopping online for antiques. We have an estate sale coming up […]

We want to thank all of you who have continued to participate in our online auctions. We have done our best to provide a safe environment to preview and pick up items. Unfortunately, due to strict COVID-19 regulations in the state of California, we have been asked to cease operations and must postpone upcoming auctions […]

We hope you and your family are staying healthy and safe during this time! If you haven’t visited our website lately, we’ve had to postpone many of our auctions due to COVID-19. This post outlines some of the changes to our policies that have occurred. As COVID-19 continues to evolve, we want to assure you […]

When buying industrial machinery or tools for personal or business use, many people tend to want to buy new items. This is completely understandable considering when you do buy new, you don’t have to worry about it breaking down on you right away. However, you can save a great deal of money – sometimes 20-50% […]

There may be a time when you might have to sell your vintage collection because you need the money. Perhaps you have simply grown tired of collecting and just want to downsize. How do you go about selling those vintage collectibles? Where do you start? Here are a few tips to help you out… Take […]

If you’re into vintage collectibles or anything vintage, we have an online auction that you definitely do not want to miss. The East County Vintage Collector is an amazing collector estate full of treasures from jewelry to sewing machines and vintage toys to Hummel collectibles, plus so much more. Here are some of the featured […]

We’ve been on Instagram for a while, but we haven’t been very active…until now. One of our resolutions for 2020 is to connect with more people on Instagram. If you’re not following us yet, what are you waiting for? Here are 5 compelling reasons to follow us now (@calauctions)… 1. Join a community of people […]

Our blog archive has grown so much over these past few years! This article was initially titled “Our Most Popular Online Auction Articles of the Decade”, but since we’ve only been active on this blog for 5 years, it’s more fitting to simply share our most-read articles from this year. If you’re new to our […]

Do you love to shop in online auctions? Want to work with a fun group of people? Are you passionate about customer service and enjoy helping others? We invite you to apply to become one of our team members! What we’re looking for are people who can assist with physically preparing the items to be […]

Can you believe that 2019 is almost over and the holiday season is already here? If you like to shop early for holiday gifts or have someone on your list who has everything and want to give them something unique, here are 5 items from our latest Combined Assets Gallery Estate Auction that may be […]

Here at Cal Auctions, we’re thinking of ways that we can give back to the community this holiday season. There are so many families in the San Diego area who cannot afford to have Christmas presents for their children. It is only right to offer our support to the Toys For Tots program. From now […]

Many of us have collectibles because we have a passion for what we’re collecting. Meanwhile, there are others who collect and invest in items with the hopes of making money in the future. Whatever your reason for collecting, it’s important that you take care of and store these items properly so that they can be […]

When we think of investing in collectibles, what usually comes to mind are sports memorabilia, art, vintage toys, figurines, etc. But did you know that designer fashion can also be a worthwhile investment? Over the past few years, we’ve sold many designer fashion pieces that served as a reminder that fashion is indeed cyclical and […]

You’ve decided that it’s time to downsize your home or someone in your family has passed on and you want to sell their belongings. Holding an estate sale auction is one of the most efficient ways of achieving your goal if done in the right way. Here are the 3 steps to take to ensure […]

Perhaps you’ve been to a preview day for one of our combined assets estate online auctions and saw an item that made you think… Why would someone want this old, junky thing? Trust us when we say that there are probably a dozen or more ideas for that dusty and raggedy old thing. With a […]

The days have gone by fast, haven’t they? It was almost 8 years ago that our business started in a little warehouse on the outskirts of San Diego. We wanted to help bridge the gap between online auctions and estate sales in the local area. Now we’ve grown into a huge warehouse just outside downtown […]

The Disney brand has been around for many decades with tons of people from around the world looking for pieces to add to their beloved collections. If you’re thinking about starting your own collection of valuable Disney memorabilia (otherwise known as “Disneyana”), here are a few tips to get started… 1) Buy Limited Edition Items […]

Purchasing machinery and power tools can be very costly, especially if you run a business that requires a lot of equipment and supplies. Regardless if you are buying tools for business or personal use, it’s always nice to get a good deal. Here are a few ways you can get deals on machinery and tools… […]

If you’ve participated in any of our Combined Asset Gallery Estate Sale Auctions, you know that we often have vintage and antique treasures for every type of collector. If you’re just starting out as a collector, we’ve curated these 10 best tips from other vintage and antique enthusiasts… 1. Do a Little Digging Kate Simmons […]

What makes our online auctions different from other auction houses is that we offer an inspection/preview day for some of our auctions, with the exception of abandoned property and some bankruptcy auctions. Essentially, we’re a hybrid of old-school live auctions and the new way of hosting online auctions. Preview days are an opportunity to inspect […]

There are so many businesses on the Internet nowadays. Trying to navigate through the plethora of websites and decide who to do business with is as challenging as getting a cat to take a bath. In our years of doing business, we’ve come to realize just how important customer service is. You could have the […]

Photography has become an important part of our lives. With social sites like Instagram and Facebook, people are more engaged with you when you share photos. Whether you use photography for personal or business use, finding a good camera or quality camera equipment is relatively easy, however, finding the best deals on used photography equipment […]

If you’re new to our website and not sure how to create an account or register to bid on items, we invite you to check out our new YouTube channel! Right now we only have 3 how-to videos that will help you if you’re not familiar with the process. This includes a video on how […]

If you’re a collector of anything – whether it’s sports memorabilia or vintage glass – you understand that it can be easy to get carried away with your obsession. Clock collecting is one of those obsessions, and as our society becomes more enamored with technology and everything digital, antique or vintage clocks will become rarer. […]

Purchasing large machinery for your shop can be a challenge, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Machine shop equipment isn’t exactly cheap, so one of the best ways to get a good deal is to find used machinery. Every once in a while we have sellers who need to liquidate their equipment. This latest […]

Do you love online auctions and finding bargains? How about making money? What if you could make money while doing something you love? Buying items at wholesale and reselling those items for a profit is not a new concept. That’s how all retailers and businesses that sell products work. However, not many people think about […]

Vintage items always tend to stir up nostalgic feelings and immediately brings back memories of a simpler time – if you’re old enough, that is. If you’re just starting out as a collector of all things vintage, but also want to make a little money from your hobby, here are a few types of items […]

Getting great deals on items from online auctions can be a fun experience. However, if you’re a novice or simply not paying attention to what you’re doing, there’s a chance that you can make some mistakes, which can cost you a great deal of money or the opportunity to own something you’ve always wanted. Here […]

Photo Credit: Pinke Glass has been around for centuries and it’s probably one of the most versatile materials that has ever been invented. Humans have used glass to create everything from functional pieces such as weapons to decorative pieces like wall art and jewelry. Nowadays collectors from all around the world still find value in […]

Sterling silver has been around for ages and to this day it still has value no matter where you are in the world. This shiny, lustrous precious metal has been used in many cultures for jewelry, decorative items, and fine dining pieces. The word “sterling” evolved from the word “Easterlings” when eastern Germans paid the […]

Asian decor evokes feelings of zen, harmony, and openness. It’s a timeless interior design style that could be incorporated into your modern home and still create a contemporary vibe. Are you inspired by the Orient and want to redecorate your home? Are you a collector of Asian furnishings? We currently have a very large collection […]

2018 was a fun and exciting year for us here at Cal Auctions. We want to thank all of our customers and visitors who have participated in our online auctions! If you haven’t visited our blog lately or you’re just reading for the first time, we put together a roundup of the most popular articles […]

Susie is an avid collector of vintage and antique cameras. Susie’s grandmother passed away and willed a huge collection of cameras to her. Ever since then Susie has been on the hunt for collectible cameras, going to local estate sales every weekend and browsing the Internet every now and then. Then Susie discovered online auctions, […]

This past summer we announced that new software had been installed for our online auctions. With this new format and theme, we hope that it will be easier to read and browse through the catalogs. We offer a huge thank you to all of you who have submitted your comments and feedback regarding the new […]

Can you believe the holidays are just around the corner?! If you’re the gift-giving type of person, it’s that time of year to start planning what to give your friends and loved ones. As easy as it is to just give someone a gift card, it’s much more fun to find rare or unique items […]

Is smaller better? Some might argue that downsizing into a smaller home is indeed much better than “living large”. There are many reasons why people decide to downsize. Maybe all the kids have moved out. Another reason is that people are just tired of looking at all the stuff in their home. Are you trying […]

Online auctions are great for people looking for bargains on just about anything. We’re a little biased, of course, but we believe you should always shop online auctions before you pay retail. That’s not always possible because sometimes it’s just easier and faster to run to the store and get what you need – like […]

You may have heard a story or two about someone finding multi-million dollar art pieces in a thrift store. But have you considered the idea of finding a hidden art treasure in an online estate sale auction?

Need an idea to make some extra cash while searching for new treasures to add to your collections?

Buying a car via an online auction is easy and you can get a great deal if you know what you’re doing. In a previous article, we talked about the pro’s and con’s, which is a must-read if you’re new to online car auctions. It does take a little more due diligence than going into […]

The warehouse confusion is finally over! Those of you who come to our preview or removal days sometimes get confused as to which warehouse to come to.

If you’ve been browsing our website recently, you may have noticed that some of our auctions have taken on a new look. We are currently working on revamping our website with brand new software and bidding system. We are not able to automatically transfer customer information over to the new system, so you will need […]

Selling or liquidating a business can be long and drawn out if you’re trying to do it by yourself. This is especially true if you have a fairly large business with a great deal of inventory, supplies, and equipment. You’ve probably spent many years trying to sell your products and now you want to sell […]

In recent years online estate auctions have been rising in popularity. This makes it convenient for people to shop estate sales and discover great bargains on everything from collectibles to everyday household goods. Traditionally, people have fun going from estate sale to estate sale on the weekends hunting for treasures. If there is something particular […]

You have a fun hobby that many of us probably wish we knew how to do: you tinker with cars and know how to fix them up. We’d all save hundreds – if not thousands – of dollars each year if we had your skills. You’re probably good at finding deals on tools and equipment […]

Some of you may remember that we used to manage online specialty auctions for Father Joe’s Villages (formerly St. Vincent de Paul’s) here in San Diego. We met many people while doing these auctions who are now regular customers of our monthly estate sale auctions. Father Joe’s Villages has gone through many changes the past […]

If you’re a collector of handguns, shotguns, or rifles, this is an online firearm auction you don’t want to miss. Although we sometimes do offer guns in our monthly online estate auctions, it’s been awhile since we’ve had an event like this in which it’s all focused on firearms.

Looking to make some extra money? Did you know that we have a program that pays you a 20% fee for referring sellers to us? If you know an individual in the San Diego area who is downsizing or liquidating their estate, you can tell them about our online auction services. Likewise, if you know […]

Many of you know us as an online estate auction company, but did you know that we auction heavy equipment and machinery as well? An equipment rental company is doing some spring cleaning and must get rid of a super duty dump truck, skip loaders, wood chipper, compressors, tillers, rammers, hand tools, and much more. […]

As life changes, eventually there will come a time when you’ll probably have to move, downsize, or liquidate a loved one’s estate. You don’t have to go through it alone, however. Hopefully these tips will help you get organized and give you ideas on how to manage the process. Take baby steps Liquidating an estate […]

Online auctions are a great way to get bargains on just about anything, but typically when you’re purchasing something online you don’t get to see what you’re actually bidding on until you receive it in the mail. With our online auctions you can attend a preview day to inspect any items prior to placing a […]

Whether you’re just starting out as a collector or buying things to flip for a profit, there are certain items that always seem to be valuable no matter what. Over the past few years the collectibles in this top 10 list have always been popular in our online estate auctions… Vinyl Records Old school records […]

Marketing plays an important role in online auctions, especially now that everyone is spending more and more time on their cell phones or in front of a computer. If you’re a current seller with us or are thinking about selling with us, in this article we’ll be offering an overview of how we market every […]

Have you been thinking about downsizing or liquidating your estate via an online estate auction? There are questions that often come up that we’d like to address in this article:

You’ve been doing research about the best way to liquidate an estate and you decided that selling your items via an online auction with an auction house is the best option for you. Now what? There are quite a few auction houses in your area, so now it’s time to figure out which one will […]

Another year has passed, which is always a great time to stop and reflect. It’s certainly been another busy year for us here at Cal Auctions and we definitely couldn’t do it without all of you loyal customers! For our holiday gathering this year we had a great time at a local bowling alley/tavern. All […]

Online auctions are a great way to get the best deals on all types of goods ranging from household items and furniture to vintage products and rare collectibles. If you’re doing research about auction bidding strategies and what’s the best way to win an online auction, read on for a few tips… Marathon bidding This […]

There are many things we can be grateful for this holiday season, but as a small business we are especially thankful for all of you who have supported us for the past 6 years. Just recently we passed an incredible milestone: 100K registered bidders on our website! Over 100,000 people from around the world have […]

The holidays are around the corner, and while there are plenty of online stores where you can buy mass-produced items to give as gifts, why not give your friends and loved ones creative, original, and cool holiday gifts instead? Here are 10 ideas for gifts that are fairly easy to make or put together, plus […]

Participating in online bulk auctions is a great way to get good deals on items to buy and resell. You could buy a big bulk of items in one lot, keep a few items you want for yourself, and then sell the rest of it through sites like eBay, OfferUp, Mercari, etc. Here are five […]

If you’re a car collector or like big boy/girl toys, you’ll need to temper your excitement for our next online vehicle auction. Everything from classic hot rods to several Cadillacs, dune buggies, a motor home, boat, and more take center stage in the Dean Alt Estate Auction. Dean Alt left behind a legacy that serves […]

When browsing through our online auctions you will always come across vintage items and collectibles that may inspire you to redecorate your home, or perhaps you may be inspired to put on your creative crafty hat and give an old item new life through upcycling or repurposing. This month we’re pretty excited about our latest […]

Buying a car at auction could be one of the smartest purchases you make. Sure, it’s nice to have a brand new car, but why not get a good deal and pocket or invest some of that money you save? Cars can go to auction for a number of reasons including: being impounded by the […]

Coin collecting can be a fun and rewarding experience….if you know what you’re doing. We recently just finished an auction with 1000 lots of collector coins, so we thought it would be the perfect time to share a few tips and advice if you’re new to the numismatic world and interested in buying coins through […]

Online auctions have been around for some time, but not everyone participates in them. Have you thought about buying items at auction, but still on the fence about it? Here are 7 compelling reasons why you should try online auctions: Save money Sometimes you can find brand new items at wholesale prices such as the […]

Ahh, classic cars. Whether you collect them for investment purposes or simply just love the cars, they stir up nostalgic feelings and memories of the “good ole days”. It’s only once in awhile that we auction off a classic car, and in our warehouse estate auction for August we have two classic cars up for […]

If you’re new to buying items in our online auctions, it’s good to know the different options available to get those items to you. We recently added a couple new ways that you may not know about if you’re a returning customer, so in this post we’ll give you all the details you need to […]

It’s been a wonderful award year for us here at Cal Auctions. First it was the award for Excellence in Estate Sale Marketing from EstateSale.com, and now we’ve been given an award for Excellence in Estate Liquidation from Mega Estate Sales. For those who don’t know, Mega Estate Sales is a site that helps people […]

Bidding and buying in online auctions has become a fun past-time for some people. In our experience of doing online auctions, we’ve had many customers who have been able to score deals because of their patience and tenacity. Here are some of the top items they were able to buy and resell to make a […]

There are many opportunities to score great deals in government auctions. Government agencies such as police departments, military installations, post offices, and even colleges or public schools have surplus or items that are auctioned off on a regular basis. These agencies want to purchase new items and get rid of inventory, they have lost and […]

Liquidating an estate can be relatively easy or it can be highly challenging. It all depends on what route you decide to take and what you have a tolerance for. Here are several options to consider: Have a yard sale If you have the time on the weekend (or several weekends because not everything sells […]

As an auction house that specializes in estate sales, we come across many unique items and tons of collectibles. If you’re new to buying pieces as a collector or you’re buying to sell and make a profit, perhaps these tips will help in your decision making and buying process. Special markings Many collectible pieces will […]

If you’re a first time seller or buyer on our site…Welcome! We have pages on our website dedicated to buyerand seller information, but in this post we’re going to cover some of the most frequently asked questions we get. How do I bid on items? In this short video tutorial you’ll learn how to register […]

Huge thanks to EstateSale.com for awarding us the Excellence in Estate Sale Marketing. Out of 6,400+ estate sale companies listed on the site, we were in the top 50 most viewed companies on the site. If you’re not familiar with EstateSale.com, they are a directory that lists estate sales, auctions, and business liquidations all across […]

If you’re new to online auctions as a buyer or seller, they may seem intimidating to participate in. You may have preconceived notions on how online auctions work, so in this post we’ll dispel any of the myths that are floating around… 1) My items will not sell for fair market value Many people who […]

Nonprofit organizations are constantly challenged to raise money to help carry out their mission and vision. This income is much needed for their survival. What’s nice is that many organizations are waking up to the idea of raising money via online auctions. Save Money by Hosting An Online Auction The cost of planning an event […]

Whether you collect antiques as an investment or you just enjoy buying antiques to decorate your home, finding the best places to buy these treasures – and buy them at cheap prices – can sometimes be difficult. In this post we’re going to share where you can go treasure hunting… Antiquing Towns If you live […]

2016 was a busy year for the auction industry. Picasso’s “Femme Assise” sold for $63.7 million, a rare blue diamond sells for $57.5 million, and a 1957 Ferrari sells for $35.7 million (most expensive car ever). As we look ahead to 2017 we can only guess that it will be an even better year for […]

Did you just start a business? On a tight budget? One way to save money on equipment and supplies for your business is to buy at industrial or commercial auctions. At our auctions you can find everything from heavy machinery, restaurant supplies, industrial tools and equipment, business furniture, lab equipment, and all types of business […]

Can you believe that 2016 is just about over? The time has gone by so fast, and it feels even faster when you’re as busy as we have been. If you haven’t been keeping up with our blog posts and updates or you’re a new customer, this post will give you all the highlights of […]

Many of our estate sale buyers are people on the hunt for unusual or vintage items to add to their personal collections. We also have buyers who are store owners or online shop owners looking for items that can be bought at a low price and flipped for a profit. Buying low and selling high […]

Although we offer full-service auction services for clients, did you know that we also offer the option to host an auction event on your own? We call these Self-Supervised Auctions in which the seller maintains control of the production, sale, and removal of all items. What are the benefits of a self-supervised auction? You gain […]

Bidding and winning items in online auctions can be alot of fun and addicting at times. There’s always that opportunity to score a great deal on an item. However, just like anything in life, you win some…and then you lose some. It is frustrating to lose on an auction item that you had your heart […]

In our last blog post we talked about a new warehouse addition. Well, another change we’re experiencing now is a new venue for the Father Joe’s Villages/St. Vincent de Paul Villages Specialty Auction that is held every 6 weeks. If you’re a new customer or blog reader, you can read more about this Specialty Auction […]

Week by week Cal Auctions continues to grow, and we’re excited to be expanding into a second warehouse! This huge warehouse is in the same complex that our current warehouse is (just across the parking lot), which will give us more room for the estate side. We’ve been working hard to make our next estate […]

Are you a fairly new customer and want to learn more about our processes? Do you want information about us not mentioned on our FAQ page? Or do you just think we’re a pretty cool company and want to get to know us better? This post is dedicated to you. Here is some of our […]

Let us preface this post by saying that we don’t want to take anything away from live car auctions. Sure, you can often find deals there if you know what you’re doing. But hear us out as we explain why you can probably get better deals if you go the online auction route.   You […]

Every single day Father Joe’s Villages/St. Vincent de Paul Villages receive thousands of donations, and it’s been a privilege helping this non-profit auction off all the specialty items. If you’re a first-time visitor or buyer to our site, we help this San Diego-based organization every month with their Specialty Auction so that they can continue […]

Customer service plays an important role in all businesses. Take a look at all the great businesses that exist today such as Zappos, Apple, and Nordstrom. What they all have in common is exceptional service. If you ever stepped into Zappos headquarters, you will notice a very fun and colorful work environment. The company cultivates […]

In our business we meet all types of people. Most of them are familiar with online auctions because of eBay. However, there are still many people who don’t know very much about the process. This past weekend during preview day for the Antiques at the Village Auction we met quite a few people who weren’t […]

Before the Internet was invented we had much more time on our hands compared to what we have now. Kids actually played in the park with each other instead of chasing virtual creatures in the park, people went to the movies, joined their company’s softball league, and we all communicated by actually talking to each […]

Hi! It’s Maria, the resident blogger here at Cal Auctions. I also manage the Facebook and Twitter pages, plus I help with writing product descriptions for the online auction catalogs. In other words, I stay busy just about every day working with the company. I thought I’d shake things up a bit on the blog […]

If you’re on a budget or like unique items, upcycling vintage items purchased at estate sales or thrift stores is something you can do to save money and have one-of-a-kind pieces for your home. In a previous post we talked about the rise of vintage, but now we’re going to offer some ideas for DIY […]

In the spirit of Throwback Thursday (#TBT) that occurs on many of the social media outlets, it’s only fitting for us to share the weirdest, coolest, and most interesting vintage items that are up for auction in the latest Father Joe’s Villages (a.k.a. St. Vincent de Paul Villages) Specialty Online Auction. For those who don’t […]

There are a few ways that you could go about selling industrial equipment and tools: through a broker, sell it yourself, or use an auction company that specializes in selling these types of items. Regardless of what method you use, there are a few do’s and don’ts to consider in order to have a successful […]

Spring is in full swing and as you go through your spring cleaning rituals, perhaps it dawned on you that you have become quite the collector with alot of “stuff”. This is a great time to take inventory of your collectibles and think about selling some items to make a little money for a spring […]

Many people are considering downsizing their estates, and it’s not just retired individuals. Maybe you woke up one day and realized that you just have too much “stuff”, you need to sell off assets because of a job loss, or you maybe just decided to go on that world tour you’ve always dreamed about. Holding […]

Photo Credit: Alejandro Pinto For the past couple decades online auctions have been a great way to liquidate assets and sell items that otherwise would not sell for much in the regular brick and mortar retail world. Whether you have decided to hold an online auction on your own or choose us to help you, […]

Collecting is alot of fun, isn’t it? Some people collect things for the simple pleasure of owning items they like, while others collect for the investment value. Some do both – collect things they like at the same time thinking about what those items will be worth in the future. Why put your money in […]

Closing your business and getting rid of equipment and inventory can seem a little overwhelming. There are a few ways to go about selling off everything, depending on how much time and effort you want to put into it. Whatever you do, we understand that you want to maximize your return and recoup as much […]

As an auction house that serves both sellers wanting to liquidate their personal estates and buyers who are looking for deals at online estate sales, we want to do our best to help educate people on the different terms that we use in our item descriptions. Definitions of these terms are relatively universal, however, with […]

Online auctions have been around for a long time, but maybe you’ve been hesitant about becoming a buyer until now. You can find just about anything now in online auctions – from clothing to cars, real estate, and industrial equipment. The best thing about it is that there are many opportunities to score deals on […]

Our dilemma is that we hate change and love it at the same time; what we really want is for things to remain the same but get better. –Sydney J. Harris It’s a New Year and we hope yours has started off on the right track! Just like most businesses, we’ve been thinking about how […]

Just like most industries, the online auction industry is constantly changing. As a regular buyer or seller in online auctions, it’s important to be aware of trends in order to maximize transactions. Of course, online auctions are nothing new. eBay has been a major player in the game for a long time, but the online […]

They say that time flies by when you’re having fun, and we’ve certainly been having fun. It’s hard to believe that it’s already been four years since Cal Auctions was launched. We started in a small warehouse in the suburbs of San Diego, and now we’ve grown into a large facility in the heart of […]

Online estate sale auctions are becoming more popular as people are looking for quicker and easier ways to liquidate their estates. If you’re new to this concept, hopefully this post will help clear things up for you. Of course you could do it all yourself, but hiring an online estate sale provider or auction house […]

Looking for bargains on used electronic equipment, computers, industrial equipment, or office furniture? Every few months we host online government surplus auctions such as the upcoming San Diego Community College Warehouse. If you’re a novice to online auctions or government auctions in general, here are a few tips to help you get started: Familiarize yourself […]

Nestled in the heart of Coachella Valley and just a stone’s throw away from Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage Country Club was part of a rich history of golf. The country club opened up in the early 80’s, catering to those wanting to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. People traveled from […]

You walk through the warehouse and realize there’s excess inventory and supplies that have been hidden away for years. Maybe these are products that aren’t selling or you forgot about them, or perhaps you received a large order from a customer, but they ended up canceling the order. Now you’re stuck with 500 units because […]

Scandinavian Living Room by San Francisco Interior Designers & Decorators Jeffers Design Group When it comes to interior design, what is old is new again, and mid-century design has certainly made a fierce comeback. Flip through the latest issue of any home decor magazine and you’re likely to come across articles and spreads featuring mid-century […]

You’ve won those items that you’ve been bidding on and it’s time to pick them up. Here at Cal Auctions removal day can be hectic at times, especially if it’s a big auction, so we’re going to share some tips in order to make the process a little smoother for you. Bring your receipt. This […]

If you’re a new business owner looking for office equipment, a company vehicle, or if you’re someone who just enjoys scouring the web for bargains on computers and other necessities, online surplus auctions are excellent sources to keep in mind. Here are a few tips to help you get the best deals on items at […]

People have been collecting vintage items for a long time, but with the popularity of shows like “American Pickers” and “Pawn Stars”, there has been more awareness of the value of vintage items and collectibles. In particular, the vintage trend in interior design has really taken off in the last five years. Just spend a […]

It’s been a busy summer for us here at Cal Auctions. Besides moving into a bigger warehouse in San Diego, we just ended a successful St. Vincent de Paul Villages Specialty Auction, we’ve been preparing for a big preview day for the vintage Triumph motorcycles auction, we’ve also been getting a catalog ready for another […]

Nowadays, the best thing about shopping estate sales is that you can do it from the comfort of your own home. More and more people are opting to sell their treasures online, which means it’s easier to find a great deal on those special or unique items you need or collect. If you’re new to […]

Triumph motorcycles comes with a rich legacy of rebellion. For others, it’s just the allure of adventure and freedom that inspires them to buy one. Looking to channel the rebellious energy of Marlon Brando, James Dean, Clint Eastwood – or if you’re a little younger – Colin Farrell? Our latest vintage Triumph motorcycle auction gives […]

This is an auction you don’t want to miss. We always say this about every St. Vincent de Paul Specialty Auction, but this time we mean it. We’re especially excited about this current auction because: 1) A classic ‘66 Volkswagen bug will be won by the highest bidder regardless of price, and 2) A John […]

Downsizing can be a challenge for any San Diego business owner, but if you follow these tips, hopefully the transition will be less stressful… 1. Prepare yourself mentally. Downsizing a business isn’t going to be easy. It’s going to be an emotional time for you and your employees. Take advantage of resources like SCORE San […]

Ok, so we’re a little late to the party, but Cal Auctions is finally on Instagram and to celebrate we’re hosting a photo contest! Enter your photo for a chance to win a $100 Visa gift card. What does California living mean to you?

Maybe you’ve been contemplating downsizing and moving into a smaller home, or a loved one has passed away and it’s time to let go and liquidate assets. The traditional way of selling everything quickly is hosting an estate sale. You could also try selling items on Craigslist or through a consignment shop, but whatever you’re […]

      For the past couple years we’ve been helping St. Vincent de Paul Village (SVDP) with their specialty auctions in San Diego, which has been a rewarding partnership. For those of you who don’t know, St. Vincent de Paul Village is a non-profit organization here in San Diego that is associated with Father […]

As a thank you for reading our blog or following us on Facebook and Twitter, we’re giving away this cool PlayMG Mobile Android Game System Device (MSRP $199.99). If you have kids who are constantly asking for your smartphone so they can play games, or maybe you’re still a kid at heart who loves gaming, […]

The San Diego Community College District’s warehouse is full again, so this is your opportunity to bid on items in this government surplus auction in San Diego including tons of audio/visual equipment, office furniture, computers, laptops, radio station equipment, metal file cabinets, and more. The SDCCD consists of three colleges including San Diego City College, […]

New Website – Cal Auctions We are extremely excited about our new and improved website.  Now you can do things like search all of our auctions for the items you are looking for.  With the new tile layout on the home page you can find  the stuff you want and the price you set.  Thanks […]