Patent ID: 7809611

Claim:
An automated auctioning method with a server computer including a data storage device, a data processing device and a network connection device, said method comprising the steps of: providing a multi-function stage, during which said data processing device produces a first graphical user interface to allow a user to: a) buy an item outright; b) make an offer for an item, whereupon further action is taken to determine whether said offer is to be accepted; and c) place an auction bid that is processed in a subsequent auction stage; changing automatically, with said processing device, from said multi-function stage to the auction stage after a first predetermined period of time for all items not sold in the multi-function stage such that said processing device produces a second graphical user interface to allow a user during said auction stage to place an auction bid but not to buy an item or make an offer; changing automatically, with said processing device, from said auction stage to a fulfillment stage after a second predetermined period of time during which transactions are concluded based on an assessment of data created during said auction stage; and wherein said further action is sending a message to a seller in response to the offer being made and wherein the offer is automatically accepted if it falls within a seller defined range.