Guidelines on Buying at an Auction

Here is a guideline to prospective buyers from an auction:



Do your homework: Nothing is more important than knowing what type of battle you are going into. Before traveling towards the auction site, you should first obtain a considerable amount of information about the items being auctioned, the form of bidding and other necessary details. Also, know the requirements of the auction.



Bring cash: Most auctions require the potential buyer to deposit a registration fee which may or may not be withdrawn afterwards. This acts as an assurance to the auctioneer that the person is a serious bidder. Also, know the forms of payment that the auctioneer requires. You might be required to bring cash, to use your credit card or to pay through a bank. TIP: Refrain from joining bids where the auctioneer asks the winning bidders to wire their payment. Once you wire the money, it's lost.



Just be prepared: There are conditions when the auctioneers have to cancel the auction. To get around this possibility, call the auctioneer before going to the auction site. Some auctions are cancelled without notice or with very little notice.



Use the viewing time: Most auctions allow viewing time for the items or properties so that the bidders will get an idea of the items being auctioned. During this time, inspect the item you want to bid on. Check for any indications that will give you hints on whether an item is a good sale or not. Inspect thoroughly because merchandise at auctions come with no guarantees. Foreclosed homes that are being auctioned, for example, are sold as-is. Thus any damages to property, whether it's real estate, a car or just a collector's item will not be recognized through complaints. However, there are some auctions that allow the winning bidder to return the item if proven faulty. But just to eliminate the trouble, try to check the item first before deciding to bid on it.



Set a price limit: Some people get so caught in the bidding wars that they bid beyond their capacity in the process. Don't let your emotions take you to prices that you cannot afford. Set a ceiling for the purchase price and stick with it. This way you won't be a victim of negative spur of the moment decisions because sometimes, even if you can afford the price, it's not wise to buy something priced way beyond its original value.