In my post on social lenders I discuss Zopa and Prosper who seem to have taken the online auction idea popularised by eBay and applied it to matching people who have funds to invest (lenders) with people who need money (borrowers), the auction part relating to interest rate and other terms.

This development prompts the thought: what other applications are possible? I know of sites where potential clients make offers for legal services but these do not use the auction method.

Trade Me New Zealand has just been purchased by Fairfax Australia. It lists motor vehicles, property and rentals as well as the usual consumer goods.