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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Sort by: Select Price, Low to High Price, High to Low Newer Listings First Older Listings First Open House Date

1936 Elk Road Heber, AZ 85928

$649,777

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,004 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6690125

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This custom log sided chalet on 1.75 acres is sure to please! Like new condition and secluded feel describes this 3BR, 3BA cabin. Tons of features with split floor plan, master BR downstairs and huge loft upstairs (currently used as the 3rd BR). Soaring vaulted T&G ceiling, lodgepole railing and knotty oak cabinets give that rustic feel. Custom window treatments, gas fireplace and new gas furnace with A/C. Oversized 2 car garage, tons of Trex deck and equipped to run off grid with shared well, solar and propane generator for well backup!

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22560 E Saddle Way Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$649,767

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

3,267 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6699276

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Includes An Extended Covered Patio, Den With Modern Glass Doors, Upgraded Front Door, Aristokraft Benton Paint Colada Cabinets With Upgraded Hardware, Gourmet Kitchen Appliances With Wall Oven & Microwave And 30'' Gas Cooktop, Stainless Steel Hood And GE Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator. Della Terra Quartz Kitchen Counters In Bianco Pearl, Custom Tile Backsplash At Kitchen And Upgraded Blanco Super Single Bowl Sink. Frameless Walk-In-Shower At Primary Bath With Custom Tile Surrounds, Door From Primary Closet To Laundry Room, Pendant Prewires Over Kitchen Island, Upgraded Flooring Including 12x24'' Avery White Tile At Upstairs Baths And Laundry As well as Polaris Lighthouse Luxury Vinyl Plank Downstairs, And Upgraded Carpet. Pavered Driveway, Walkway And Porch.

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12011 S 185th Drive Goodyear, AZ 85338

$649,500

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,543 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6766444

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautiful 4-bedroom 3-bathroom Shea home is nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac which bumps right up to the Sonoran Desert Mountain! Walk up the paver driveway to the charming gated courtyard and enter into your new home with an elegant trey crown molding ceiling. This home boasts neutral wood like tile throughout as you enter an open kitchen and great room. The open concept living space features a soaring ceiling with large windows and a generous sliding glass door allowing natural light which gives the area a warm comfortable setting. The kitchen has a gas range and gourmet hood, silk granite countertops and upgraded elegant white cabinetry. A few steps away, relax in the great room with surround sound speakers which add to entertainment and comfort. The backyard is fully landscaped with pavers and gorgeous travertine along with a louvered pergola with ceiling fans, misters, and smart LED lighting where you can sit and cool off on a hot summer day or night. A few other upgrades to mention in this one of a kind home is the owned solar system, water treatment and softener, epoxy floor garage, and convenient storage racks and shelfing. The Estrella Mountain Ranch has amazing amenities which include two clubhouses, pools, lakes, restaurants, hiking trails, and tennis and pickleball just to name a few. This is a must see, so arrange a tour today!

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1840 N 36th Drive Show Low, AZ 85901

$649,500

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,846 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6613082

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream mountain retreat nestled in the picturesque community of Country Club Manor. This charming home offers a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its beautiful surroundings, modern amenities, and thoughtful design, this property is sure to captivate both nature enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxing getaway. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by an inviting and open floor plan that seamlessly combines functionality and comfort. The spacious living room features large windows that flood the space with natural light and provide incredible views. This is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of outdoor adventures or to gather with friends and family.

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18789 E Blue Sky Drive Rio Verde, AZ 85263

$649,500

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,537 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6751220

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This stunning home is like new, lightly lived in, over $73,000 in upgrades at time of purchase directly from the builder. Featuring 12 ft. ceilings, light and bright, open great room, perfect for the lock and leave resident. Located on the golf course, home is part of the Tonto Verde golf community, with 36 holes of golf, gated, pool and fitness room. Great clubhouse with dining. You are automatically a social member of the club with dining and clubhouse privileges. Golf memberships available! Golf Cart access to Tonto Verde via a dedicated path from Blue Sky. This unit is the larger of the floor plans offered.

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42715 N Courage Trail Anthem, AZ 85086

$649,500

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,458 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777081

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

You will be blown away by the stunning Anthem property located in Anthem Parkside. This former model home has 3 bedrooms 2 bathrooms, a separate den/office and a great room! This home sits on a 10,000 sqft lot with a 3 car garage. The kitchen has ample amounts of storage and opens up to the living room where you can relax and get cozy by the fireplace. The master bathroom has dual sinks, walk in closet, garden tub and shower. The backyard is equipped with everything you need to entertain in the extremely inviting oasis. Enjoy the Bullfrog Hot Tub under the stars while your chef created master piece cooks in the wood fire pizza oven. To top off a lovely evening serve up a slice of pizza under the pergola while staying warm by the fire pit to create a unique dining experience

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44529 N 44th Drive Phoenix, AZ 85087

Open House

$649,336

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,394 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6723522

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New home ready for move in. Single-story Calrosa floorplan with Territorial style exterior. This open floor plan features three bedrooms plus a flex room that can serve as a home office, game room or sitting area. The owner's suite has a spacious walk-in closet and bathroom with two separate vanities, separate tub and tiled shower. The spacious kitchen features stainless steel wall oven with gas cooktop, and a large island with ample sitting space. The stylish cabinetry in a creamy white tone is complemented by upgraded quartz countertops and wood color plank tile. Great home with spacious sitting and socializing areas. Home warranty included.

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10015 W Verde Lane Avondale, AZ 85392

$649,250

5 Beds

3 Baths

2,654 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748882

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Find your dream home at Acclaim- Fulton Home's newest master planned community! The Seal Rock is an amazing home featuring 10' ceilings, 8' doors, gourmet kitchen and Atrium glass door to patio. Also included: 2'' faux wood blinds, ceiling fans, paver driveways and much more. Fulton homes are 'Zero Energy Ready' and include tankless water heaters, spray foam insulation, electric vehicle ready and pre plumbing for solar installation. Residents of this incredible community will enjoy an aquatic center with a community pool, basketball courts, pickle ball, sand volleyball, bocce ball, greenbelts and children's playgrounds. This home has an estimated completion date of Fall 2024. Buyer may be able to upgrade appliances at an additional cost.

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1024 E Mountain Vista Drive Phoenix, AZ 85048

$649,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,953 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765395

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow ! Great single level home with no neighbors behind, creating beautiful mtn views of So Mountain from the fam rm & main suite ! This home borders a wash & the quiet street which borders the local park. Beautiful wood floors thru-out most of the home. Gorgeous granite counters & white cabinets in the kitchen, which is open to the family room, & separated by the kitchen breakfast bar island. Pantry is behind the door labeled ''Private''. The formal liv/din rooms at the house entrance is currently furnished as a large liv rm. The office has a double door (no closet). The beautiful main suite is at the back of the house, w/sep tub & shower/ walk-in closet/ private toilet/ twin sinks & view of S Mtn. The backyard is a gorgeous oasis w/ pool/ mural walls/ meditation areas & beautiful views !

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202 S Sunset Pass Payson, AZ 85541

$649,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,800 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6748539

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

BRAND NEW - UNDER CONSTRUCTION Dream Home on the Rim in Payson - surrounded by gorgeous custom homes and less than 7 min from Renowned Golf Club at Chaparral Pines & The Rim Club, less than a mile from Safeway grocery store and convenient shopping, dining, gas & bank. Buyers able to select Cabinet Color, Granite Color, Interior & Exterior Paint and Flooring if under contract before install. Not much around here under $700K so hurry - estimated time of completion 12/01/2024- just in time to enjoy for the winter! Additional Photos of this home will be posted as it progresses. Buyer to verify all facts & figures.

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206 S Sunset Pass Payson, AZ 85541

$649,000

4 Beds

4 Baths

2,736 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6747764

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Charming 4-Bedroom Home with Breathtaking Views of the Mogollon Rim & Granite Dells Welcome to your dream home in the prestigious Highlands at the Rim subdivision, ideally located just outside the gates of the Rim Golf Club. This stunning 2,736 sq. ft. residence offers 4 spacious bedrooms and 4 beautifully appointed bathrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. Step inside to discover an open floor plan with soaring ceilings and abundant natural light, highlighting the breathtaking views of the Mogollon Rim and Granite Dells. The main living area seamlessly flows into a well-equipped kitchen, perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet family meals. A versatile loft area adds a unique touch, offering the perfect space for a home office, media room, or additional living space. The potential in-law quarters, featuring a private entrance, provide an ideal setup for multi-generational living or guests seeking privacy. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the home's proximity to the Rim Golf Club, where world-class golf and outdoor adventures await. Whether you're enjoying the serene landscape from your deck or exploring the nearby trails, this home offers a lifestyle of tranquility and natural beauty. Don't miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of paradise with unmatched views and exceptional living spaces. Schedule your private tour today!

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20138 W Steedridge Road Wittmann, AZ 85361

$649,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,339 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773769

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

New irresistible custom home built 2024 on a cul-de-sac lot. A must-see! Ready to move in and start a new chapter of your life. Ideal for people looking for quality features and unique details. Located on a 1.24 acres lot. Huge backyard. 4 spacious bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms. The gorgeous home is designed down to the smallest detail. Elegant touches that predominate throughout the entire house. Grand open space with 14 feet ceilings. Ceramic 4'x2' elegant tile in the whole home. One-of-a-kind and full of character kitchen with solid wood oak cabinets with appliances included. Beautiful kitchen island with enjoyable breakfast bar. Quartz countertops with veins. Relaxing electric fireplace in the living room area. Solid wood ceilings in patio and porch. 3 car garage.

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