There is a chance that you are interested in buying your next house at auction. Auctions are a great way to skip lengthy and uncertain purchasing procedures and get yourself a bargain. Here are our top tips for purchasing property through auction.
Prior to the auction
1. Auctioneers and research properties in the area
Choose the region you’re interested in and then contact local property auction houses. They’ll be able to provide you with information on forthcoming auctions, and will include you on an email list to ensure that you receive the latest auction catalogues.
2. Schedule viewings and get answers
Make contact with the auction house after you’ve found a home you like. You should make sure you thoroughly examine it and its surrounding neighbourhood. To find out the cost of repairs and other expenses You might want to take an expert handyman or builder along. If you have any concerns.
3. Get a copy the auction details
While the specifics will contain crucial information, you might require an additional legal document to see the whole picture. Searches are often part of the legal papers, but if not, ask your solicitor to do these prior to auction. Legal documents vary between properties. If you are in doubt You may want to ask a solicitor to look over the legal documents for hidden covenants or loopholes that could cost you more than you bargained for.
4. Prepare to move quickly
It is crucial to carefully consider any property, the average time between the publication of an auction catalogue and the actual auction takes four weeks. You must be quick to act.
5. Keep in touch
It is always possible to ask the auctioneers to keep you updated on any modifications or changes to the sale conditions also known as an Addendum. If you’re really keen to know, ask them to notify you of the possibility of the property being sold before the auction date, this has been known to occur on occasion.
6. Set your budget
You should consider the most expensive amount you’re willing to pay for the house While auction properties can be less expensive than the market value, but renovations are usually needed. You’ll need financing unless you are in a position to purchase the property in cash. Make sure you know the amount of your deposit be and what method of payment is required , so you are able to arrange for enough funds to be in place.
7. Make sure you read the small print
You must read the conditions and terms of any auction house before you place your bid. Be sure to be familiar with the sale conditions as well as the requirements to be paid, and when. You do not want to be surprised at the time of auction.
What to do at the auction
7. Always be punctual
It is recommended to be at the auction well before the advertised starting time. The auctioneer will inform you of any changes or additional information regarding a property within an Addendum. Make sure you are aware of any changes as they could have a bearing on your choice to buy.
8. Understand the difference between reserve and guide prices.
Be aware that each auction property is initially sold at a price guide and is also subject to the reserve price. The guide price is the base bid price from which bidding can begin, while the reserve price represents the amount the seller is willing to accept. Bidders aren’t required to reveal the reserve price, but it can be as high as 10% more than the guide price.
9. Be sure that your bids are concise and succinct
When the time comes when you are ready, ensure that your bids are clear; some auction houses will give you an auction paddle (or similar) to ensure that the auctioneer is able to identify you when you make a bid. It’s easy to be lost, but it’s important to stay calm and stick to the budget you have set. Auctioneers must clearly state the location and the current bids that are being offered in the room.
10. If you are unable to bid, someone else should be able to bid for you.
An agent or solicitor may be your replacement if you are unable to bid. Auctioneers may also accept proxy or phone bids. In this case, the auctioneer must have written authorisation from you and payment in the form of a cheque. This is calculated by the amount of your highest bid.
11. If successful, you are legally bound by the terms and conditions of the sale at the time the gavel falls
If you bid successful and you are successful, you must to take the contract in writing and pay the deposit then. After the falling of the auctioneer’s hammer the bidder are bound by the conditions and terms of the sale and liable for the insurance of the property as of the moment. Refusing to sell your property after this time could result in massive costs.
12. Be prepared for the conditions of deposit and the payment terms
Most property auctions near me require a 10 percent deposit at the beginning of the day of the auction. They will also require two documents of ID. It is typical to have between 14 and six weeks to conclude the auction and pay the remaining balance. The sale conditions will clearly mention any remaining fees or other details for completion.
13. Private purchases may be an option if the property isn’t sold.
If the property remains unsold, the auctioneer may have the power to sell it private in the auction room right after the sale. Inquire with the auctioneer prior the auction. Keep the room open until the end.