Real Estate Investing: 3 Insider Tips to Winning House, Land or Foreclosure Auctions

House, land and foreclosure auctions can be one of the most nerve-wracking ways to buy a property. However, if you prepare yourself with proven bidding tactics, auctions can be a great way to purchase your dream home at a competitive price.

If you’re in-it-to-win-it, familiarize yourself with these top three tips and tricks before attending a real estate auction.

Give The Right Impression

While you may not have control over what other bidders are willing to pay for a property, you do have some control over their perception of whether or not bidding against you is worthwhile. Come well-dressed and maintain a confident demeanour to give the appearance that you are a serious buyer, one whom ‘the other guy’ likely can’t out-bid.

To enhance this appearance, do not make an offer right away. Wait until the bids have reached approximate 80% of your maximum price and then join in, as it will knock out the bargain hunters. A big first bid can be intimidating to others, making them question whether they stand a chance against you. Following bids should be made quickly and confidently to send the message that you are the person who will be closing this deal.

If you are extremely anxious to place bids, consider hiring a professional bidder to do the work for you. A seasoned pro will be able to maintain their cool while placing bids strategically to maximize your chances of getting the property you want at the price you want.

Know Your Limit

Never go into an auction without knowing your absolute limit. If you are emotionally invested in the property it is best to write your limit somewhere on the inside of your hand, so that you are forced to remember it when you’re tempted to exceed it.

In terms of setting a limit, pick a figure that isn’t rounded. Many buyers will set limits such as $500k or $1.2 million, and will drop out after these round figures have been reached. If your limit is $515k or $1.25 million, you will have an extra cushion than may just barely outbid your rivals – and that’s all you need to win.

Ask The Hard Questions

Do your research beforehand and ask the auctioneer about the property’s flaws. Questioning whether the deck is up to code or whether there is still a possibility of road widening could make other bidders second guess the property and drop out before bidding has even begun.

Ready to blow the competition out of the water? Make sure you are completely prepared for an auction, contact me today – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.

Click Here to See What Your Home is Worth

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316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$649,999

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,708 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780196

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.

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316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$649,999

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,708 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6780213

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW!! Coming soon is a 1708 sf 3 BR 2 BA with 2 car garage and a RV garage on 1 acre property. No HOA, Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from. Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary homes entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those fall and spring sunsets on your porch swing. When entering the home, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings that showcase the open concept living area to the kitchen and dining room. Spacious covered rear patio, great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Cozy laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting wood plank style tile flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes.

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316xx N 171st Avenue Surprise, AZ 85387

$649,999

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,708 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778344

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

WOW!! Don't miss this opportunity!! Being contructed soon is a 1700sqft, 3 Bed, 2 bath home with 2 car garage and an RV garage on 1 acre. No HOA! Pavement access is under 1000 feet attached to maintained dirt road with recycled asphalt. Builder plans to break ground January 2025, completion May 2025. 3 homes to choose from! Enjoy the included front yard landscaping as you walk up to your new home. This desert contemporary home's entry has a large, covered patio perfect for watching those beautiful Arizona sunsets on your porch swing. Upon entry, you will be greeted by a huge great room with vaulted ceilings which showcases open concept living to the kitchen and dining room. A spacious covered rear patio is great for relaxing or entertaining. Nice sized bedrooms for kids or office space. Practical laundry room with utility closet. Carefully selected materials have been chosen to match the exterior theme of the homes and flow with the interior design. Boasting tile wood plank flooring, marble tiled showers, soft close shaker cabinetry, quartz countertops, satin nickel plumbing and lighting fixtures. Included GE appliances. Washer and dryer will be included with a full price offer. The building features include fully sheared plywood exterior, spray foam insulation, cathedralized attic insulation, Low E vinyl windows, Lenox 5 Ton 14 seer HVAC unit. Qualify for your own new construction loan and take $20,000 off the price or get $20,000 in upgrades. This home won't last long once built and completed. Get in now and pick your finishes!

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48336 N 27 Avenue New River, AZ 85087

$649,999

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,126 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751295

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful 3 BD. plus Den, 2.5 BR. home with 2 car garage. Large open kitchen/great room with 10 foot ceiling. Premium cabinets, granite counter tops, huge kitchen island, stainless steel appliances, pantry, large master suite with a walk-in shower, dual vanities, access to the laundry room. Additional upgrades include, tile plank flooring, 8 foot doors, upgraded hardware/lighting, large laundry room, energy efficient 14 Seer HVAC, dual pane low-E windows and R-38 cathedral attic insulation. Upgrades made by the current owner: fence and side gates around backyard, landscape rock in front of the back yard, installing pavers, turf, security gate, epoxy in garage, solar panels, back splash in kitchen, cabinets and tool storage in the garage, storage shelves in laundry. No HOA.

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12854 S 189th Avenue Buckeye, AZ 85326

$649,999

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,250 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6761627

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOUNTAIN VIEWS! This 2024-built home with a HUGE 3-car garage nestled on a SPACIOUS 1.26 acres is the one for you! Enter through the custom double doors to discover a roomy open floor plan that promotes a modern feel. Wood-look tile flooring, neutral palette, and stylish light fixtures are worth mentioning. Spotless kitchen is equipped with abundant white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, a walk-in pantry, sleek quartz counters, and a center island with a breakfast bar. In the large main retreat, you will have an ensuite with dual sinks, garden tub, and a walk-in closet. Massive backyard with a covered patio and views that go on and on has enough room for a pool, a shop, or whatever you can imagine! Hurry! Your forever haven is ready to welcome you!

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6285 E Broadway Avenue Apache Junction, AZ 85119

$649,999

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,186 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6772527

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Want to spend your nights looking at the sunset & city lights and your days gazing at the Superstition Mountains? Well then this is your place! Updated 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath single-level home, sitting on 1.1 acres at the base of the Superstition Mountains. And if you're looking for your own workshop and garage space for your toys --you won't be disappointed! An oversized, 6-car detached garage awaits with mini-split, ducted Torit Industrial Dust Collecting System, Extra LED lighting, 7 X 240 outlets, 2 X 50 amp & RV plugs. TONS of storage! Then, step inside to relax and be delighted by the lovely interior showcasing a great room with soaring vaulted ceilings, a soothing palette, attractive wood-look flooring, & cozy two-way fireplace. The family room has double French doors that lead to the backyard for seamless indoor-outdoor living. Cook delicious meals in the kitchen, equipped with granite counters, knotty alder cabinetry, SS appliances, a walk-in pantry, and a peninsula with a breakfast bar for casual dining. You'll also find a versatile bonus room, perfect for an office or study. Huge covered patio in the back makes for great viewing. Make this yours today!

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1957 W Fawn Way San Tan Valley, AZ 85144

$649,999

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,252 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6763536

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream oasis at 1957 W Fawn Way. This beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by a spacious open floor plan filled with natural light, ideal for both family gatherings and entertaining friends. The modern kitchen features stainless steel appliances, ample counter space, and a convenient breakfast bar. Retreat to the luxurious primary suite, complete with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in closet, while the additional three bedrooms provide plenty of space for family or guests. Outside, you'll find your very own private swimming pool, perfect for cooling off during hot summer days or hosting weekend barbecues. The beautifully landscaped yard offers a serene atmosphere and ample room for outdoor activities. Located in a friendly neighborhood with easy access to local amenities, parks, and schools, this home seamlessly combines convenience and tranquility. Don't miss your chance to make this slice of paradise your own!

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11865 N 143rd Avenue Surprise, AZ 85379

$649,999

5 Beds

3.5 Baths

3,886 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770462

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MAGNIFICENT 5 BED/3.5 BATH/4 CAR DRIVE-THROUGH GARAGE LOCATED IN A GATED COMMUNITY: COPPER CANYON RANCH. Furniture can convey. Includes an additional den/office and bonus room. Situated on an oversized lot this home is loaded with custom features. Gently lived in, tastefully decorated, looks and shows like a model home. Custom cherry kitchen cabinets. Granite counter tops,double ovens,butlers pantry. Huge open floor plan with real wood flooring, 20 inch tile and plush thick carpeting. Outdoors is an entertainers featuring a large grass area and beautiful pool with custom water features. Heated negative edge spa with soothing therapy jets. This home is a 10....don't wait !!

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1941 E Medlock Drive Phoenix, AZ 85016

$649,999

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,438 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785564

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully maintained mid-century gem at 1941 E. Medlock Dr., located in the highly desirable Camelback Corridor of Central Phoenix. This 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom townhome exudes character and charm, offering a perfect blend of classic details set in a spacious and open floor plan. The inviting living room space boasts vaulted ceilings, fireplace, and large windows that let in abundant natural light while the kitchen features granite countertops, beautiful appliances, and plenty of cabinet space. Whether you are looking to entertain friends and family or spend a quiet night in, this space is perfect for any occasion. Situated in a quiet, established neighborhood just minutes from Biltmore Fashion Park, top restaurants, and easy freeway access. Enjoy the best of urban living with quick access to downtown Phoenix and the Camelback Corridor.

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630 E Laguna Drive Tempe, AZ 85282

$649,999

5 Beds

2 Baths

2,112 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6783954

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

A stunning single-family home located in the heart of Phoenix has 5-bed, 2-bath with 2112 sqft, 2-carport, and covered patio. Brand new windows throughout. You will be greeted by a bright & airy floor plan that is perfect for entertaining. The kitchen comes with stainless steel appliances, quartz countertops & brand-new white & black shaker cabinets. Brand new vinyl wood & carpet flooring throughout the home. Enjoy the fully upgraded, spa like bathrooms with high end shower system, framed mirrors, shower niche, & custom vanities. No HOA. Walking distance to parks and bike paths. Do not miss out!

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1413 E Windsor Avenue Phoenix, AZ 85006

$649,999

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,734 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778809

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Step into the charm and modern comfort of this renovated 3-bed, 2-bath midtown gem! Just steps from the Coronado Historic District, this classic bungalow features a bright open layout, a stunning chef's kitchen, plus a cozy family room with a white brick fireplace. The laundry room/pantry is located next to kitchen. Renovations throughout include Quartz countertops, shaker cabinetry, stylish vanities, flooring, modern lighting, neutral paint, and ceiling fans. Relax in the spa-inspired primary suite with a large walk-in shower, soaking tub, beautifully tiled walls, and walk-in closet. Step outside to enjoy the large private yard, covered patio, and shaded gazebo area surrounded by artificial turf and horseshoe court. Gravel walkways, block fencing and mature shade trees make this low maintenance yard the perfect spot for relaxing, playtime, and entertaining!

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1628 E Magellan Drive New River, AZ 85087

$649,999

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,978 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6683844

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Motivated Seller! Will look at all offers. LIKE NEW home. Voted BEST VALUE by Desert Hills New River tour agents! All the updated features. Large kithchen, with center counter. White cabinets and granite countertops. Open great room with lots of windows for the mountain views. 3 bedrooms 2 bath spllit floorplan. The garage is a large oversized 2 car with a space for your tools. Full one acre for your enjoyment. Shared newer well, 2 party. Plus a new rear yard fence to be sure your animals are safe. Central vac. You won't want to miss this well maintained home!

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