The following is a message that was posted on Doll-Fan by the site owner. I thought this is a great idea and it's looking so promising I want the world to know about it! Just dropping everyone here a note on some of the things we are currently working on to improve the site and make it JUST what you want it to be!!
1. I know there has been a lot of concern about the instability of these new auction sites popping up and the fear of registering and not being able to unsubscribe to the site should you decide to leave in the future. I know that this happened with one of the other new sites, where people discovered they weren't actually removed, despite requesting that their accounts be removed. My husband is currently working on this and is programming the software to offer an 'unsubbing' button, so that if in the future you decide to leave, you will be free to leave. I am sort of a stickler when it comes to numbers anyway (the optometrist in me ;0), and would never inflate the statistics on the site so I have no issue with having an unsub button and if it makes some of you more comfortable trying out a new auction site....well....I want to offer this to you :0). The statistical numbers we have displayed on the site are completely accurate, and in fact I went in and deleted any of our -*test*-('") listings before we posted the statistics as I want these number to be an accurate reflection on how the site is doing.
2. Another main issue we have had is the HTML code. The way our site is designed makes for a narrower window for the html to be displayed....narrower than Ebay. Those that don't know how to adjust their templates accordingly are having trouble with this. My husband and I have tried to help the individuals having issues with this, but obviously this isn't a very efficient solution. Dave is currently programming the software to allow much wider html templates to be used....it may take a little while for him to get this done as a lot of the code has to be readjusted. In the meantime those of you who have issues, just let Dave or me know and we will try to adjust your template for you. Please don't let a faulty template keep you from listing.
3. Dave is also programming a scrolling news box for the homepage of the auction so I can add updates there. I am looking forward to this as it will be a much more efficient way of disseminating the new information we have for site members!!
4. The Showcase Shoppes are up and running.....please be sure to check them out!! We are still trying to add new subscribers to this great promotional device, so expect it to be filled shortly!! We have had a large infux of applications for this promotional tool and are offering it for a bargain price these first few months!! So now is the time to try it out O0
5. Regarding Banner Ads!! As a cross-promotional aid to both the site and our members, any member that can do a reciprocal banner swap with us, we will do this for no charge. For those of you who have already paid and are willing to display our logo on your website, I will of course refund your money....just contact me. I feel it is imperative that we keep trying to get the word out.
Lastly, I can understand everyone's hesitation at joining a new site.....REALLY I DO!! I am trying to set it up, so the members of Magnolia Lane have everything to gain by being a part of the site and NOTHING to lose.
We have FREE BASIC LISTING, low final value (2.5%) fee only if your item sells, you can have a reserve on your item for FREE, you can have SIX pictures downloaded for FREE, and now Banner Ad swaps for FREE!! I also have it set up so you can relist up to 5 times for FREE!!! For just three dollars you can get THREE MONTHS FREE showcase AND have your Final Value Fee cut in half (that is only 1.25%)...so people are directed right to your auctions AND your personal website. Now I am providing an unsub button AND we are not requiring credit card information.
I would like to see those of you sitting back and waiting to 'see what is gonna happen' instead MAKE something happen....try listing...you have NOTHING to lose....absolutely NOTHING!!!!!
I know people are upset and frustrated with Ebay, but if we don't start investing in the future of one of these new auction sites now, none of them will be around when Ebay finally pulls the final straw. What more do you want ??? Wouldn't you all prefer to list on a site devoted to dolls and the interests of doll artists and collectors? With tutorials, forums, chatrooms, dolly yellow pages, in-depth featured artist profiles and more (the more is coming ;0)???? I've built it, but it is up to the rest of you to embrace it and make it your own.
I am NOT suggesting you leave Ebay......not at all. I am just suggesting you list on Magnolia Lane AND Ebay....at the very minimum you may gain a bit more exposure to your item as you know everyone viewing your item at Magnolia Lane is IN the doll community and worse case scenario it takes a bit longer to sell....or you give it a try on 'the lane' and if it doesn't sell you relist on Ebay. If it sells on the Lane you pay FAR less and you are establishing yourself on a new site that might be your mainstay in your future!!! Seems to be a Win/Win!
So See Ya on the Lane!!!!!!
http://www.shoppesonmagnolia.com