The Schaardt Auction Service Story
Clay Schaardt, a lifelong resident of rural Pawnee County, has cultivated a robust skill set characterized by eloquence, industriousness, and agricultural acumen since an early age. His journey into the realm of auctioneering commenced during his formative years, ingeniously simulating sales scenarios on the playground, treating peers as feeder cattle during recess—an endeavor that foreshadowed his future path.
Driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence, Clay pursued formal training at the esteemed World Wide College of Auctioneering, seizing the opportunity in the summer preceding his senior year of high school. Graduating from this prestigious institution in June 2017 marked a significant milestone, laying the groundwork for his subsequent professional endeavors.
Eager to carve his own path akin to his father's entrepreneurial legacy, Clay founded Schaardt Auction Service on June 17, 2017. Within a year, the company celebrated its inaugural live household sale while formalizing its status as a Limited Liability Company (LLC). Recognizing the imperative of continuous growth and development, Clay immersed himself in the auctioneering community, affiliating with esteemed organizations such as the National Auctioneers Association and several state-level counterparts.
This strategic engagement not only facilitated invaluable educational opportunities but also provided a platform for networking, propelling Schaardt Auction Service to new heights. It was within this milieu that Clay discovered his dual passions within the auction industry: the necessity for specialization and the invigorating competitive spirit of bid calling. Identifying his niche in auctioneering, Clay focused primarily on online auctions for farm equipment, complemented by his role as a ringman and auctioneer for purebred cattle sales—a fusion of his two enduring interests, auctioneering, and agriculture.
Clay's dedication and skill as a bid caller have been widely acknowledged, with multiple top-ten finishes in esteemed state contests across Nebraska, Kansas, and South Dakota, including a notable second runner-up placement at the Nebraska Auctioneers Contest in July 2024 and the title of Nebraska State Champion Ringman in 2022.
In October of 2021, Schaardt enhanced his professional qualifications by acquiring his real estate salesperson license, a significant achievement that expanded the range of services available. This milestone paved the way for a fruitful collaboration with Burrows Tracts Real Estate, initiating a dynamic partnership that has thrived ever since.
The pivotal year of 2023 saw the formal establishment of the Schaardt Auction Team within the framework of Burrows Tracts Real Estate. This strategic alignment facilitated the seamless integration of real estate auctions into our operations, encompassing a diverse portfolio of properties including land, residential homes, and commercial real estate.
Presently, Schaardt Auction Service and the Schaardt Auction Team at Burrows Tracts Real Estate operate as distinct yet complementary entities. By harnessing their combined expertise, they provide a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the diverse needs of our valued clientele. This dual approach empowers us to deliver unparalleled solutions in both the auction and real estate sectors, ensuring maximum value and satisfaction for all stakeholders involved.
Clients entrust Schaardt Auction Service for its unwavering dedication to integrity, hard work, and a personalized approach to service. Conducting approximately 40 online auctions annually on platforms such as AuctionTime and Schaardt BID, alongside diverse live auctions featuring cattle, benefit events, and personal property, the company's growth trajectory is evident. With a burgeoning team comprising three sales representatives and an office manager, Schaardt Auction Service continues to welcome new clients, extending an invitation to experience their cutting-edge technology and innovative marketing campaigns.
Moreover, the company takes pride in its distinguished auctioneer chants, renowned for their soothing quality, a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence. As Schaardt Auction Service charts its path forward, its dedication to providing unparalleled service remains unwavering, driven by a steadfast commitment to client satisfaction and continuous improvement.
