A Thoughtful Approach Exceeds Expectations

“The three pillars of the company−auctions, senior relocation and real estate−work in tandem to accomplish what seniors need to have done on their behalf, as well as positioning Scheerer McCulloch for continued growth,” says President Tim McCulloch. 

“The burden some seniors feel when they try to take these things on themselves is too much,” he says. “We relieve them of that, plus we get them more value for their home and personal property than they could on their own, in a very efficient manner.”

That timeliness is important to seniors, who are often up against a rigid schedule. McCulloch says it’s not uncommon to have the transaction completed in as little as eight weeks. And oftentimes the client knows the financial outcome and the timeline from the outset. 

Over the years the company has earned a reputation for stellar customer service, as evidenced by the many glowing reviews from satisfied clients. For example, Dick and Linda Morris hired Scheerer McCulloch to assist in the process of both downsizing and moving. 

“We appreciate that you clearly explained your services and what they would cost,” the Morris’ wrote to McCulloch. “Also, you made sure that we were comfortable with the dynamics of auctioning our possessions and our home. There were no surprises! Tim, you have a great product, and we are touting it to our friends and acquaintances.”

This feedback is no coincidence, as the company has taken a thoughtful approach to serving the needs of people 65 and older. Seniors have been a priority since the company’s inception; it started out as a senior relocation company in 1998. Other services (such as providing auctions for personal property and real estate) have been added over time, as clients trust Scheerer McCulloch to handle more aspects of their affairs.

And that growth has not been limited to services. The company has grown so much that it recently had to find a new home for its offices and auction galleries. It has set up shop at the former Lantern building, a local landmark with no shortage of nostalgia. The newly renovated facility has served the company well so far, with 15,000 square feet of newly carpeted space. Other amenities include 18 large-screen monitors for viewing ease, 120 parking spaces and multiple auction rings.

Just as The Lantern is full of history, McCulloch has not lost sight of his own deep roots. He grew up working auctions alongside his dad, so he knows the business inside and out. While some things have changed, technology for example, he believes that it’s the people, both internal and external, who have always and will continue to drive the company.

“I believe in hiring staff instead of contractors so we can control the quality of what we deliver,” he says. “I also appreciate the referrals we get from bank trust officers, attorneys and retirement communities, who value the quality of what we consistently deliver. I really believe this is one thing that sets us apart.”

One specific point of difference is the company’s Auction University, a concept developed in house which provides training on all things related to auctions. The training is available to staff, clients, prospects and industry partners. McCulloch says this is one way staff can be more knowledgeable and add value to clients’ lives. 

These professionals go the extra mile, especially for seniors, who are a growing population. Assistance with relocation is often the reason people come to Scheerer McCulloch, but they often benefit from other complementary services. In fact, moving is just the first step in the process, when finalizing retirement plans. Next comes turning personal property into assets. To that end, Scheerer McCulloch helps clients sort through a lifetime of belongings, providing options on how best to divest of them. Appraisals are available for valuable collectibles, as is international online bidding for those with items of interest to the national or global community. 

Then, there is also the real estate side of the business. 

“Auctioning real estate works for everything from fixer-uppers to multi-million dollar lakefront homes,” says McCulloch. “The best part is that homeowners invest nothing, and buyers purchase as is within 30-45 days, maximizing fair market value.”

Regarding value, McCulloch is quick to dismiss a myth about auctions and strives to educate current and potential clients. He says there is a misperception that an auction is a last resort for moving inventory, but in many cases, clients come out ahead. That success is not limited to auctioned properties. For example, Stan Williams, director of development at the Peabody Home Foundation has raved about his experience. 

“We broke records for auction prices on our works of art and we nearly doubled our goal for the Peabody Home Foundation’s Endowment Benefit Auction,” he says. “They exceeded every expectation. We walked away from this experience to tell of their talents to all who wish to know. So we’re telling you now: When you hire Tim McCulloch and his team, you can rest assured that your decision is the right one!”

Comments