Why Reputation Matters More Than Price
A well-known fancier can ask 2–3 times more for the same type of bird compared to an unknown seller. The reason: the buyer also pays for the certainty of not being deceived.
The Pillars of Reputation in Pigeon Racing
- Transparency — you tell everything you know about a bird, including what is not right
- Documentation — real pedigree, health tests, performance records
- Consistency — results come year after year, not sporadically
- After-sales support — you remain available after the sale
In brief: The fastest way to build your reputation is to give the buyer more than they expected. A bird that performs well at a race turns the buyer into your ambassador.
Online Presence
- Post race results regularly on social media
- Document the breeding season with photos and results
- Answer questions publicly — others see you are serious
- Do not argue publicly with unhappy buyers — resolve privately
Word-of-Mouth Referrals
90% of sales at serious fanciers come from referrals. One satisfied buyer sends 2–3 potential buyers.
Tip: Offer an informal guarantee: if the bird dies in the first 7 days and the cause is unrelated to you, you replace it or refund the money. Few will use this guarantee but everyone will appreciate it.
Mistakes That Destroy Reputation
- Selling sick birds without informing the buyer
- Incomplete or altered pedigrees
- "Special prices" for friends that become public
- Promises about performance that cannot be guaranteed
- Refusing to respond after the sale
Concrete Action Steps
- Keep a sales register — who bought what, at what price
- Contact buyers 30 days after the sale to ask how the bird is doing
- Share results of sold birds when the buyer posts them
- Do not sell a bird you have doubts about — fewer but better sales