ECommerce Freshman - Need Help! Auction site with a twist

[CharlieWinst]

I am planning to start an auction based site where members will create profiles and sell their own products. This idea should be so simple due to the numerous template themes available for auction sites on wordpress etc. However, my site will allow people to auction non tangible products like MP4 files. The site would require a plug in allowing bidders to play a sample of the file (that has been uploaded by a user) and when the bidding price is met or the auction for that item has ended, they will be able to download that specific file.

I would say I'm pretty computer savvy but I do not write code and I have never created an ecommerce site, so a few tips to help me out would be much appreciated. Just to make you aware, I will be working on a shoestring budget.

• What platform would be best for starting this particular website? Wordpress, shopify etc?
• Would I be able to create a site like this by myself with plug ins or would I need a developer?
• I need a template that will allow me to earn commission off the auction.
• Like ebay, I will want to charge a small fee for each item uploaded by a user.
• Would I have to write my own terms and conditions or could I outsource this to a firm with the necessary details?
• At what stage would I have to register my business? after a certain amount of income ?

Thank you for your time!

[CharlieWinst]

Typo with MP4 files. Actually meant MP3 files.

[ivan_rusev70]

Hi,
About platform. Just see possibilities of the different platforms and what they offer. Certainly you'll need a developer. About terms and conditions you can hire freelancer. I think that will be cheaper than a firm. About registering of your business you should consult specialist.
Ivan

[jcage]

The most important thing for eCommerce is a good website and mobile app. As for me, I used the help of http://www.nixsolutions.com/ software development company and they made those things for me really great with allowed me to star a decent and successful business. Hope, this was helpful

[HMoore]

I do not know about the auction sites but I used Wordpress .. it was very straightforward in my case (which is not an auction site) ..

Plug ins or developer? All depends on what you are actually looking for. I have just googled it and I found that there are some Auction Wordpress Themes out there and it seems like they are good .. If they fit what you are looking for then I don't think you would need any further help at this stage

Have a look at the terms and conditions of similar sites and that would give you a general idea about what you need to include in yours. Terms and conditions are very useful when there is a problem .. If you are going to sell expensive products with high risks .. expert advise would be essential.

About the registration you need to check your state policy

I hope that is helpful

[johndee2015]

i like your idea. This is really good and innovative idea, but the important point of success if proper bidding system and availability of product after win the bid. WordPress is best option for you. This is simple and very customized CMS.

[Mike1986]

An auction site may be difficult using a platform such as Wordpress or Magento. I think for a job such as this you would need a developer or some sort of consultant.

[carolrobertjoan]

I suggest you going with Magento, it has various extensions and templates design to develop a rich and search engine friendly eCommerce store. http://www.openwavecomp.com/magento_...velopment.html

[haniyabilal]

Hi Charlie Winst,

I am working on wordpress name haniyabilal that is why I recommend you to develop your idea in wordpress. Secondly I suggest you to develop your site from developer because there are many thing which must have done in inner html or in programming. Thirdly you want commission from both sides (Purchaser & Seller) you can find many plugins of wordpress.

If you need more help just tell me .. I am here for you .. I am availabe at haniyabilal.

Thanks

[haniyabilal]

[PeterJohnsons]

I'm thinking of making my own site here, at this drag and drop website builder: http://*************************/moto-cms-3-templates.php, it seems to be easy, they promise I can cope with it without any special education and it'll took only few hours for making a proper website. There is a free trial and then it's not so expensive as hiring a developer, plus this builder has lots of designs, so I think it won't be too difficult.

[johanwillams]

Well your idea is really good and innovative .Wordpress is the best option for you.