Tips for buying at auction

Research

When it comes to bidding at an auction, preparation is key. The moment the hammer falls on your winning bid, the property is legally yours without any cooling-off period.

To avoid costly surprises, make sure you’ve thoroughly inspected the property beforehand. It’s also essential to arrange for a professional building and pest inspection to uncover any potential issues before auction day.

Know the True Value of the Property

Before bidding at an auction, it’s crucial to understand the property’s true market value. Vendor price guides can be helpful, but researching recent sales of comparable properties gives you a clearer picture.

Have your finance sorted

When buying at auction, there’s no room for uncertainty auction contracts are not subject to finance. This means you must have your funds ready before placing a bid. To avoid financial risk, speak with your lender and obtain pre-approval before auction day.

Check the contract

The contract of sale is available before auction day, and it’s essential to have your solicitor review it. While auction contracts are binding, certain terms can still be negotiated beforehand, ensuring you understand your obligations before placing a bid.

Auction day

Arrive early to register as a bidder and get familiar with the auction environment. Set a clear maximum bid beforehand to avoid getting caught up in the excitement. If possible, attend a few auctions in advance to observe the process and understand the rules.

Reserve Price

A reserve price is the minimum amount a seller is willing to accept for their property. While the auctioneer can confirm if there is a reserve, the exact amount remains undisclosed. Once bidding reaches the reserve, the auctioneer will announce that the property is “on the market,” meaning every bid from that point could secure the sale.

If the property is “passed in ”meaning the reserve wasn’t met it won’t be sold at auction. However, the highest bidder is often given the first opportunity to negotiate with the seller’s agent.

Winning the Auction

If you’re the highest bidder and the reserve is met, congratulations you’ve just bought a home!

Next Steps:

• Sign the contract (unconditional)




• Pay the deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price)




• Prepare for settlement (typically 4–12 weeks)

Failing to complete the purchase can have serious consequences, including covering relisting costs and any shortfall. This is why having finance secured and a set bidding limit is essential.

Insurance

Once the hammer falls, you become the equitable owner of the property—meaning any risk is now yours. If the seller’s insurance is inadequate and something happens, you could be left with just the land, not the home you purchased.

To protect your investment, arrange home insurance immediately. We can help organize coverage, but no matter who you choose, don’t delay—insure your property right away.

Cooling off period

Did you know? If you purchase a property at auction or on the same day, you won’t get the usual cooling-off period to change your mind.

This makes preparation crucial do your research, seek professional advice, and set a firm budget. With the right groundwork, you can bid with confidence and secure your dream home.

What if My Auction Property Finance Falls Through?

Secured a great deal at a property auction but your finance has fallen through? Don’t panic there’s usually a solution.

However, your winning bid is legally binding, and you’re still liable for the full amount. Unlike private sales, you can’t back out after a lot is declared “sold.” If you fail to pay, the seller can take legal action and keep your 10% deposit.

Conclusion

Navigating the risks of auction finance can be challenging, but being prepared can help you avoid costly mistakes. If your finance falls through after an auction, understanding your options is crucial to protecting your investment. For more expert insights and helpful guides on home buying, refinancing, and financial strategies, visit Blueprint Financial Services.