Key Takeaways: The Banes’ equipment auction was a true team effort, bringing strong results for the Portage County, Ohio farmers. From planning and auction promotion to inventory set up and auction day collaboration, the Banes share their story of a stress-free KIKO Auction experience.  

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When Is The Right Time To Sell Farm Equipment? 

For many farm families, the equipment in the barn is more than machinery; they are the tools they used early morning and late night in the field.  
 
Deciding when to let go involves the head and the heart. Bob and Penni Bane know that feeling well.  

One season at a time, for 40 years, they worked their land in Portage County. When it came time to consider downsizing their farm equipment, they knew they needed to work with someone they could trust.  
 
“We have been buying equipment for a long time, and a lot of it came from auctions,” shared Bob Bane. “I always appreciated the honesty from KIKO Auctioneers, so we gave them a call to discuss.” 

Honest Advice When It Counts

This is where KIKO Auctioneer & Realtor Randall Kiko stepped in and recommended a complete dispersal strategy for the Banes to sell their equipment. Rather than selling a few pieces now and others later, Kiko advised they sell the inventory they were no longer using, all in the same day.  

“Curating a complete farm inventory auction drew in more serious buyers who appreciated the variety of tractors, tillage and hay equipment that the Banes had to offer,” explains Randall Kiko, a specialist in the farm and ag industry.  

Preparing Your Equipment for Auction

One concern many farmers have is how much work goes into preparing for an auction. The good news? KIKO’s team handles the heavy lifting. 

For the Banes’ sale, KIKO managed the entire process: 

  • Complete inventory assessment and cataloging 
  • Equipment staging and organization on the property 
  • Professional photography and detailed descriptions 
  • Marketing materials, promotion and online listing creation 
  • Auction day setup and logistics 

“That is one of the things that I speak about the most to other people,” says Bane. “You guys came in there, you were super courteous, super friendly. You moved the equipment around. Just an amazing crew. Very friendly and helpful. Just amazing work. 

This full-service approach allows sellers to focus on their farming operations while KIKO prepares for a successful auction. 

Proven Auction Strategies Deliver Results

For the Banes’ agricultural equipment, KIKO held an onsite auction at the farm with simulcast online bidding – maintaining the live auction energy while adding regional bidder reach. In addition to the exposure that auctions provide, the Banes benefited from quick liquidation and competitive bidding.  

The results speak for themselves: 

2014 Kinze 3500 8/15 Planter – Sold for $53,000

New Holland 8970 Tractor – Sold for $45,500

Case IH MX100 Maxxum – Sold for $26,000

A Stress-Free Experience

With over 80 years of auction experience, the KIKO team are experts in managing successful auctions from start to finish.  

“I think the best part of the auction was the entire auction!” shares Bane. “From the time you and I sat down  until that last bid came across, everything was super smooth. Everyone was coordinated and worked together. Everyone was super professional.”  

Ready to Discuss Your Farm Equipment Sale?

Whether you’re retiring, downsizing, or simply ready to liquidate unused equipment, KIKO Auctioneers offers the expertise and regional reputation to deliver results. 

“If you’re thinking about having an auction, it makes no difference if it’s land or equipment, I would strongly suggest KIKO. I’ve been to other auctioneers who weren’t as smooth and professional. KIKO was 100% professional.” ~ Bob Bane, KIKO client 

Serving Portage County and surrounding areas, KIKO specializes in agricultural equipment auctions with a proven track record of successful sales. Our team provides free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your options and develop the right strategy for your situation. 

Also See: How to Prepare Your Farm for Auction