said by tmc8080:the fcc should write terms of the sale in the spectrum sold (a common sense use it, within 18 months or the sale is void and pay a penalty). that's the other way instead of accusing the companies of anti-trust violations to keep prices high. with all that spectrum... many more customers **could** be served at much, much lower prices.. but the companies would rather not..
Technically because "We the people" own the spectrum these are really sales of licenses for somewhat exclusive use of spectrum. When the FCC issues a license for a new TV station it has 3 years (plus potentially at least two six month extensions) to start operating. If it doesn't the license is reclaimed by the FCC. While your suggestion of 18 months seems too short, four years ought to be more than enough and if it isn't used by then the spectrum should be condemned and reclaimed.