IONIA, Mich. – One thing about auctions is that you just never know what you will find. You can often discover things you didn’t even know you needed or wanted. Take for example the 10-foot long boa constrictor snake skin offered during a McKellips Auction Service event. Selling for $17.50, it is sure to be a conversation piece for someone.

Auctioneer Kelly McAllister was selling the possessions of a former Cambodian who had immigrated to this country in the early 1980s and taught martial arts.

Another eye-catching lot was a graceful sailboat made of a very lightweight wood. Many people admired this elaborate structure before it sold for $85.

The auction briefly moved outdoors in the drizzle while Kelly sold the hot tub with filters and pumps for $300, and a complete Universal gym set with weights for $100. Near the entry way, the line up of kitchen appliances quickly found new owners, going at very economical prices. For example, an Amana refrigerator sold for $85, the Caloric electric range for $55, Speed Queen washer for $85, Speed Queen dryer for $55, and a very nice Instaflame gas fireplace with chimney pipes and manual for $75.

Large furniture items were all in excellent condition and were happily accepted by their new owners. A handsome cherry wood eight-drawer dresser with a thick marble top left for $250, a canopy double bed for $170, and a large white sectional sofa with two recliners built in closed at $225. A nice, uniquely-shaped curio cabinet with glass shelves and drawers below went to a collector for $120.

An appealing array of outdoor decorations were offered to the gardeners and landscapers in attendance. A large cement bird bath supported by seahorses sold for $35, cement angels that stood about 30 inches tall drew $37.50, and a garden fountain with a young boy closed at $40. A variety of yard tools were also offered for $5-25, topped off by a Lawn Boy snow blower at $100. A set of 3-foot long wind chimes drew a brief flurry of bids before settling at $60.

Numerous tools found their way to the houses of handymen and women, including three cordless drills that sold for $10-22.50, a creeper at $4, a 2-ton jack and handle for $9, and a five-drawer red Craftsman roll-around toolbox cabinet at $55. Auctions can be a great way to stock up the house or garage with useful items.

The kids were not forgotten in this sale. Numerous stuffed animals, kid-sized furniture, and bedding were included. Two adorable 24-inch stuffed rocking horses that made whinny sounds sold for $22.50 each, an Eddie Bauer infant car seat drew $22.50, and a child-sized bentwood rocker sold for $15.

When reading over the posted terms and conditions for this auction, the last item is “Most important of all, have a great time!” There to help everyone enjoy themselves and have a good experience were owner Tim McKellips, auctioneer Kelly McAllister, cashier Susan McKellips, clerk Mary McAllister, floor men John Baker and Nials Maroulis, and over-all helper and go-fer Josh Matteson. Partners Tim and Kelly will be hosting weekly auctions in Ionia on Sundays, beginning May 17.

Contact:

(616) 293-6636