About Us
Bendis Companies Inc.: Trusted Asset Valuation and Liquidation Since 1984
With decades of experience, Bendis Companies Inc. appraises and auctions machinery, equipment, and personal property for businesses, individuals, and government agencies across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Our dedicated team of in-house appraisers, auctioneers, marketing experts, photographers, and IT professionals delivers exceptional results for both asset liquidation and accurate valuations.
Since its founding in 1984, Bendis Companies, Inc. has blended certified appraisal services, cutting-edge technology, and meticulous organizational focus with the kind of personal touch that only a family-owned business can provide.
US Veteran-owned and -operated.
Accreditations:
Certified Estate Specialist (CES)
Certified Auctioneers Institute (CAI)
Auction Technology Specialist (ATS)
Graduate Personal Property Appraiser (GPPA)
USPAP Compliant
Our Client Success: We proudly serve a diverse clientele, including the FDIC, IRS, Homeland Security, SBA, and significant financial institutions. Our family-owned business ensures personalized attention and a loyal customer base built on trust.
Meet the Team
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world.
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Vice President, Senior AppraiserJan T. Bendis is a multifaceted auction professional with extensive experience in various roles. As Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Principal Auctioneer at Bendis Companies, Inc., he leverages his expertise across all stages of the auction process. Jan also holds California State Bond No. 137151900876.
Credentials: Jan holds a degree in Business Management from the University of Baltimore and graduated from the Western College of Auctioneering in 1984. Notably, he earned the prestigious Certified Auctioneer Institute (CAI) designation, a testament to his in-depth knowledge and high professional standards.
Industry Recognition: Jan's commitment is further demonstrated by his active memberships in the National Auctioneers Association (NAA) and the Southern California, National, and California State Auctioneer Associations. He has also served on the California State Auctioneer Association's Ethics Committee.
Appraisal Expertise: Complementing his auctioneering skills, Jan is certified by the NAA as a General Personal Property Appraiser (GPPA) and a Certified Estate Specialist (CES).
Operational Leadership: As Chief Operating Officer, Jan oversees the administrative aspects of auctions, including appraisals, site preparation, lotting and tagging, buyer registration, clerking, and cashiering. His experience encompasses all facets of major auction execution, from marketing and finance to overall management. Jan's dedication to continuous learning is evident in his regular attendance at continuing education classes and seminars.
A former Captain in the United States Army, Jan T. Bendis embodies the values of service, integrity, and dedication in all his endeavors.
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President, Senior AppraiserDiane L. Bendis serves as President, Auctioneer, and Senior Appraiser for Bendis Companies, Inc. Renowned for her creative problem-solving approach, Diane brings a wealth of experience to the organization.
Credentials and Education: Diane holds California State Auctioneer Bond No. 137151900875 and graduated from the Nashville Auctioneering School in Nashville, Tennessee.
Leadership and Management: Following graduation, Diane assumed full responsibility for policy and administration at Bendis Companies. Her extensive human relations and personnel management background is a valuable asset, honed through twenty years as Executive Vice President of a leading Orange County personnel agency.
Auction Industry Expertise: Before taking the helm at Bendis Companies, Diane cultivated eight years of experience in the auction industry. She expertly manages employees while fulfilling essential auction duties, specializing in clerking, cashiering, and telemarketing functions. She skillfully handles requests for bids, oversees proposal preparation, and manages the financial aspects of the company, including personnel and equipment acquisition.
Appraisal Expertise: Diane is a certified appraiser with memberships in the International Society of Appraisers (ISA) and the American Marketing Institute. She holds certifications as a General Personal Property Appraiser (GPPA), Certified Estate Specialist (CES), and Auction Technology Specialist (ATS).
Industry Knowledge: Diane's extensive experience allows her to navigate the complexities of the auction and appraisal industry. She is well-versed in licensing, permit requirements, governmental regulations, safety issues, bonding requirements, insurance policies, and relevant statutes and local ordinances.
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AppraiserJeff Rhoads is a valued member of our team, serving as a personal property assistant and commercial equipment appraiser. He specializes in the valuation of Fixtures, Furniture & Equipment (FF&E) for various clients, including lending institutions, bankruptcy and estate attorneys, and individuals. Jeff also plays a vital role as an auction assistant. Since joining our team in early 2019, his contributions have been significant and much appreciated.
With a rich and varied background that spans electronics, commercial project management, air transportation, automotive mechanics, construction, manufacturing, food services, and retail sales, Jeff brings unique skills and insights to his work. His journey in the amusement park industry is notable, having worked at Disneyland for several years. He started as a Jungle Cruise Skipper before advancing to the role of project manager for the Jungle Cruise attraction, a position he held during the development of Tokyo Disneyland. In his personal life, Jeff is an avid collector of antiques and Disney memorabilia, reflecting his diverse interests and expertise.
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Collateral ManagementScott Sorenson plays a key role in our collateral management team as a personal property assistant, specializing in the valuation and management of Fixtures, Furniture & Equipment (FF&E) for a variety of clients, including lending institutions, bankruptcy and estate attorneys, and private individuals. In addition to his primary responsibilities, Scott contributes to our team as an auction assistant and is involved in security operations. Having joined us in the early 1990s, his long-standing presence and expertise have made him an indispensable part of our team. Scott also brings a unique skill set to his role through his work as a Private Investigator.
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Bi-lingual AppraiserChristian Ortega is a bilingual auctioneer and appraiser specializing in numismatic production. He has been associated with Bendis Companies for more than twenty years, offering his expertise in both English and Spanish.
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AssistantJeannie Rhoads serves as an invaluable assistant to our asset management team. Her impeccable organizational skills and communication prowess play a crucial role in maintaining efficiency and adherence to schedules. While she is relatively new to the realm of auctions and appraisals, Jeannie brings over thirty years of law enforcement experience to the table. Currently, she also dedicates part of her time to working as a dispatcher for the Long Beach Police and holds the position of Senior Patrol Partner, demonstrating her commitment to serving her community.
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Administrative AssistantLinda Sherman is the dedicated owner and operator of Sherman Ranch, a reputable establishment known for its specialization in breeding purebred Hereford cattle. Prior to taking the reins at Sherman Ranch, she honed her skills as an assistant credit manager for a leading building materials company and also accumulated valuable experience working at a local livestock auction barn. In her personal time, Linda is passionate about traveling, reading, spending quality time with friends, and offering assistance to those around her.
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IT GuyMike Boring is the company's IT expert, with nearly three decades of experience in website design and development. He is the owner of High Altitude Designs, which operates out of Colorado. Outside of his professional life, Mike is a devoted father to four children and relishes in the natural beauty and outdoor activities Colorado is famous for, such as fishing, camping, and rock climbing.
