We're working through the logistics!
We're working hard to settle everything with payments, totals, taxes, fees, costs, etc. We'll make the next announcement ASAP!
Thank you so much for your participation, and for your patience!
Buy it Now
These items are limited quantity but are available to buy right now while supplies last!
Bidding FAQ
Why was I outbid immediately after placing my bid?
This is completely normal! Our auction uses automatic (proxy) bidding. When another bidder has already set a maximum bid higher than yours, the system automatically places the minimum bid needed to keep them in the lead — instantly, at any hour. It's not a person sitting at a computer; it's the system doing its job. The good news: you can do the same thing by raising your maximum bid.
What is a maximum bid and how does it work?
When you place a bid, you're setting the highest amount you're willing to pay. The system will only bid on your behalf up to that amount — never more. For example, if the current bid is $100 and you enter a maximum of $250, the system places you at $110 (the next increment). If someone else bids $150, the system automatically moves you to $160 — and so on, up to your $250 ceiling. You only ever pay the minimum needed to stay in the lead.
Do I have to keep checking back to stay in the lead?
Nope! That's the whole point of proxy bidding. Once you set your maximum, the system watches the auction for you 24/7. You'll receive an email notification if someone outbids your maximum, at which point you can decide whether to raise your ceiling. Otherwise, just sit back and let the system work.
How do I make sure I win?
Set your maximum bid to the true most you'd be willing to pay for the sign. If that's higher than everyone else's maximum, you'll win — and you'll likely pay less than your ceiling since you only pay enough to beat the next highest bidder. The auction closes at 12pm on Friday, August 7th, so be sure your maximum is in place before then.
Will I be notified if I'm outbid?
Yes — you'll receive an email notification any time someone outbids your maximum, giving you a chance to come back and bid higher if you'd like. Keep an eye on your inbox (and check your spam folder just in case) as the August 7th deadline gets closer.
Are auction purchases tax-deductible donations?
No. The Ocean City Sign Auction is being organized and conducted by Plak That, and participants are purchasing signs directly from Plak That rather than making a direct charitable contribution to Believe In Tomorrow.
Because buyers are receiving an item in exchange for their payment, Plak That will not be issuing charitable donation receipts or donation certificates for auction purchases.
How is Believe In Tomorrow benefitting from the auction?
Proceeds from the auction are helping support Believe In Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea. Plak That has committed to donating at least $10,000 from the auction to Believe In Tomorrow, with the hope of contributing even more.
Is Believe In Tomorrow running the auction?
No. Plak That is handling the auction, sales, and associated logistics. Believe In Tomorrow is the beneficiary of Plak That's charitable contribution from the auction.
Why are the signs being auctioned?
As part of Plak That's signage contract with the Town of Ocean City, these signs became the property of Plak That. Rather than seeing them go to a dumpster, we saw an opportunity to give them a second life. The auction allows people to own a unique piece of Ocean City while also generating meaningful support for Believe In Tomorrow Children’s House by the Sea.
Where does my auction payment go?
Auction purchases are transactions with Plak That. Plak That is responsible for administering the auction and has committed to making a donation of at least $10,000 to Believe In Tomorrow from the success of the auction.
Thank you to everyone who has bid, shared the auction, and helped make this possible.
Do I have to pick them up right away?
Nope! We can safely hold onto the signs until you can make arrangements, but we are hoping to have our shop space back by the end of September. :) Just keep us in the loop; our contact info and address are below. We are only open 8am-4pm Monday-Friday, so pickups are only available during those times!