I’m bidding against (I’m guessing) three or four other people for the lease to a city-owned retail space and am interested in any advice for how to come out the winner. Is there a good strategy other than spend more money? A unique stipulation in the process is that at the end of bidding, veterans are allowed to match the highest bid without the opportunity to counter.
If there is a question period, try to ask questions that’ll disqualify or add costs to the other bidders. If you’re able to do something unique, make it seem like that’s the most important thing in the world.
The veteran thing is an interesting snag though. Assuming you’re not a veteran, maybe you can find a veteran to collude with. They’re your nominal business partner for this venture.
Bid a number that’s not simple. Instead of $1000, for example, bid $1123.46
If it’s not a highest bidder game then definitely go the uniqueness route. MN State Fair has a long waiting list of vendors wanting to get their foot in the door each year. They’re always looking for something new and different to attract larger crowds and don’t really need another corndog trailer. New standouts this year were pickle pizza, breakfast gnocchi, tater-tot dog, etc.