What must auctioneers do with unsold items after an auction?

After an auction, auctioneers are typically required to return unsold items to the seller unless there is a prior agreement stating otherwise. This is important because auctioneers act as agents for the sellers, and their contractual obligation is to return the items they did not sell, ensuring that sellers retain ownership of their unsold property.

In practice, there are often written agreements between auctioneers and sellers that dictate what happens to unsold items. If these agreements specify that items are to be returned, the auctioneer must follow through to maintain professionalism and uphold trust with their clients. This practice also protects the auctioneer legally, as non-compliance could lead to disputes or claims for damages.

The other options imply different actions that may not be standard protocol. For example, donating unsold items requires the seller's consent, and simply keeping unsold items for future auctions or selling them at a discount without the seller's agreement could violate their rights and the terms of the auction. Therefore, the obligation to return unsold items to the seller is a fundamental aspect of the auctioneer's responsibilities.