Buying at Auction
Buying at auctionBefore you bid at auction you must understand the process and satisfy yourself about all details relating to the property. If you are the highest bidder and your bid is accepted, you are obliged to purchase the property. If buying at auction you should have:
Conditions of sale by auction may differ between state and Territories. Your agent can explain the conditions applicable in your area.
Bidding at auctionIn some states prospective purchasers who wish to bid at an auction for residential and rural property must register by giving particulars to the selling agent before they are permitted to bid. Bidders are issued with a bidder's number which is displayed when making a bid. The vendor or the auctioneer on the vendor's behalf may make one bid which must be announced during the auction. This is called a vendor bid. If the property fails to reach the reserve price it is passed in. As a courtesy, the highest bidder is usually given the first opportunity after the auction to negotiate further with the vendor through the selling agent. If the highest bidder does not purchase at the reserve price the property will be placed back in the market for sale by private treaty.
Bidding on behalf of a purchaserIf you want someone else to bid on your behalf, they must give the auctioneer a written authority from you, before the auction starts. The letter must include your name, address and details of proof of identity, such as your driver's licence or passport.
Telephone biddingThe practice of bidding by telephone is allowed subject to compliance with certain procedures. A written authority must be given to the auctioneer prior to auction, containing an acknowledgement that the person on whose behalf bids are made, has been given a copy of the conditions that are applicable in respect of the sale, and the bidder is satisfied the person has been given a copy of those conditions. A copy of the contract must be provided to all successful telephone bidders after the auctioneer has signed it on their behalf.
Dummy biddingIt is illegal to make 'dummy' bids at an auction. If you make 'dummy' bids for the seller, you may be prosecuted and incur a substantial fine.
Bidding tips
Reserve priceBefore the auction the seller will nominate a reserve price to their agent which is the lowest price they are willing to accept. The reserve price is not revealed to buyers.
Passed inIf a property fails to reach the reserve price the property can be 'passed in' or withdrawn from auction. The agent will then negotiate with the highest bidder on behalf of the vendor. This may result in a sale.
Purchase at auctionIf you are the successful bidder, you must sign the sale contract and pay the deposit immediately (usually 10%). A cooling-off period does not apply if you buy at auction so it is imperative you arrange finance prior to the auction. Conditions of sale by auction may differ from state to state. Your agent can explain the sale by auction conditions in your area. |