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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3215 W Molly Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$580,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,864 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6771001

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! Step into this stunning 2-story gem, where comfort meets style at every turn. As you enter, you'll be greeted by inviting wood-look floors and a neutral palette that sets the perfect tone for relaxation. The pre-wired surround sound creates an immersive audio experience throughout the home. The cozy living room flows seamlessly into a spacious great room, ideal for gatherings with family and friends. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, ample counter space, and a hanging pot rack. You'll love the convenience of the walk-in pantry and the large center island with a breakfast bar, perfect for quick meals or casual conversations. Retreat to the main bedroom, a true sanctuary featuring a lovely bay window that floods the room with natural light... The private bathroom offers dual sinks and a generously sized walk-in closet. Venture upstairs to discover a spacious loft, perfect for creating your own media center or play area. Step outside to your backyard oasis, complete with a covered patio, a paver patio for entertaining, lush grass for outdoor fun, and a rejuvenating pool to cool off on warm Arizona days. With so much to love about this home, it's truly a must-see. Don't miss your chance to make it yours today!

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10323 E Durant Drive Mesa, AZ 85212

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,764 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769379

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your new oasis in the vibrant Eastmark community! This beautifully maintained single-story home features 3 bed, 2 bath, all situated on a spacious corner lot with a fantastic pool-perfect for relaxation & entertaining. Enjoy bright, open living spaces with tile flooring throughout, complemented by a large glass slider that floods the area with natural light. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances, ideal for family gatherings. The primary suite includes a generous walk-in closet & an ensuite bath, providing a serene retreat. Step outside to your expansive backyard, perfect for sunny days and backyard barbecues. Extensive community ammenities include: pool, walking paths, the Mark(community ctr), numerous play areas and more. Close to the 202 and shopping/dining.

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29740 N 121st Avenue Peoria, AZ 85383

$580,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,884 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769909

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to Vistancia! This spacious 4 bedroom 3 bath home, with an optional office/5th bedroom, is move-in ready! Situated on a large lot, it offers plenty of room for relaxation and entertainment. Inside, enjoy a bright and airy open layout featuring a cozy fireplace perfect for chilly evenings. The kitchen boasts ample counter space and plenty of storage, ideal for meal prep and gatherings. Step outside to discover an expansive backyard with natural grass and established shade trees, creating a serene space for outdoor enjoyment. Located in the highly sought-after Vistancia community, this home is conveniently close to schools, parks, and amenities like pools and golf courses. Don't miss the chance to make this your new home sweet home!

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9934 E Twin Spurs Lane Florence, AZ 85132

$580,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,378 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6770985

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Looking for an affordable horse property in Wild Horse Estates? 1.17 fenced acers w NO HOA. 2400 sf home with 4 beds, 2.5 bath, 3 car garage + 1 car detached garage w 220amp, detached finished insulated HVAC construction office. 12' gate, 5' gate. Enjoy the stunning sunsets from your full-length covered rear patio, front patio or while riding in or nearby desert trails. Home has open vaulted floorplan, eat-in island kitchen, SS appliances, herringbone tile flooring, fireplace, generous primary bedroom with separate exit. Fresh interior paint. Solar lease for energy efficiency and lower utility bills = savings. Plenty of room for vehicles, hobbies, RV, horses. Running a business and need to park trucks, trailers? Close to shopping, weekend ventures, still has that country feel! Great horse neighborhood with shopping, dining and entertainment within a short driving distance.

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6337 W Irma Lane Glendale, AZ 85308

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,942 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6773664

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Seize the opportunity to own this bright and inviting pool home located on the golf course at Arrowhead Ranch. Experience resort-style living in the beautiful Arizona sunshine with a backyard designed for relaxation and entertainment. Outdoor features include a sparkling pool with a waterfall, a BBQ cooking area, fire pit, and a covered patio—perfect for hosting or just enjoying the greenery. Many upgrades done over the last 10 years, this home boasts high-end finishes including fresh interior paint, wood flooring, granite countertops, backsplash, and stainless steel appliances. Upgraded with a new AC in 2018. Conveniently located near shopping and top-rated schools. You have to see this one to feel its beauty and charm. Don't hesitate as homes like this rarely last long.

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13050 W Running Deer Trail Peoria, AZ 85383

$580,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,867 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782144

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome Home to Luxury & Convenience! Experience the pinnacle of modern living in this beautifully upgraded 'Libertas' model with over $70,000 in recent enhancements! With a stunning stone exterior and extensive updates, this home is truly MOVE-IN READY. Highlights & Features: Owned Solar System (installed 2023) - Eco-friendly and cost-saving! State-of-the-Art TRANE 5-Ton HVAC (2021) - Complete with full-home allergy filtration and surge protection for total comfort. Chef's Kitchen (2022) - Renovated with refinished staggered cabinets with roll-out shelves, premium granite slab countertops, and a massive island. Outfitted with top-of-the-line GE Café stainless steel appliances, including a 6-burner gas stove with griddle, double ovens, French door refrigerator with water dispenser, microwave, and dishwasher. Freshly Painted Interior & Plush New Carpeting in bedrooms (2023) - Every detail is fresh and inviting. Outdoor & Lifestyle Features: North/South exposure with a private backyard featuring a built-in gas BBQ, a covered patio with surround sound, and an ideal setup for gatherings with friends. Low-maintenance landscaping with a PVC drip system & timer (2018). 4-foot extended garage for golf cart storage or extra space! Additional Upgrades: New Maytag washer & dryer with pedestals (2022), reverse osmosis system (2021), water softener, garbage disposal (2022), upgraded LED recessed lighting, and new dimmer switches in key areas. Great room with built-in surround sound speakers for an immersive experience. Community & Location: Nestled in the award-winning, gated Trilogy at Vistancia community for ages 55+, enjoy a world-class lifestyle with 5-star resort amenities at the 35,000 SF Kiva Club, which includes indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness center, spa, cafe, billiards, meeting rooms, library, and courts for tennis, pickleball, and bocce. The Gary Panks-designed golf course winds beautifully through the neighborhood, and additional amenities are available at the Mita Club. With quick access to the 303, enjoy nearby shopping, dining, entertainment, and outdoor recreation at Lake Pleasant and Peoria's Paloma Park. This incredible home is ready to welcome you! Act quicklythis is a rare find in Trilogy!

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16777 W Toronto Way Goodyear, AZ 85338

$580,000

6 Beds

5 Baths

3,486 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779198

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous home!! 6 bedroom/ 5 bathroom and a loft. This is an Artesia Floor plan which is one of the most desirable homes in the Canyon Trails Community. You will have plenty of room to roam with your family. Double islands in the kitchen give this home a luxury feel and leads to a large family room. Two bedrooms downstairs which one could be a Mather-in-law suite and 4 bedroom upstairs plus a huge loft. This is a unique home that won't disappointed you. New paint, new carpet, new quartz, new ceiling fans, new faucets, new water softener, new water heater, new electrical panel, new appliances and more. Owned solar panels, no payments. So much room for your family and ready to move in and enjoy.

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4808 N 24th Street Unit 303 Phoenix, AZ 85016

$580,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,356 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6779827

Property Type Apartment

Price Type --

This bright and spacious 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo at Biltmore Optima features an open-concept design with floor-to-ceiling windows with views overlooking the mountains and Fashion park mall. The kitchen includes a gas stove, granite countertops, and a full-sized washer and dryer for convenience. Just steps from the elevator, this condo also offers two underground parking spots and additional guest parking. Resort-style amenities include a 24-hour fitness center with a steam room, concierge services, and on site hoa. The rooftop terrace showcases breathtaking 360° views of sunsets, mountains, and city lights, with a barbecue area and misters for outdoor enjoyment. Relax in the brand-new pool and spa with panoramic views at sunset. Steps away from shopping, dining, and entertainment.

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25958 W Westcott Drive Buckeye, AZ 85396

$580,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,862 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6746921

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

SPARKLING POOL, SPA ,OWNED SOLAR AND A SEPERATE GOLF CART GARAGE- THIS HOME HAS IT ALL! Enjoy your own private oasis on the Mountain side of Sun City Festival. Nestled on a quiet street, this light and bright home will not disappoint. Many features include- wood plank tile flooring throughout, dual vanity master bath with tiled low threshold shower and a large spacious closet. Kitchen features S/S appliances and granite countertops. The Den is perfect as an office or hobby room. Step thru the center sliding doors to the back covered patio with extended pavers, built-in BBQ, and lush landscaping and your own putting green. The center courtyard is perfect for your morning coffee and is adjacent to the kitchen. Both garages have epoxy flooring. A short walk or drive to the rec center.

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11035 W Chino Drive Sun City, AZ 85373

$580,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,247 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6768500

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful Lakefront Home in Ventana Lakes 55+ Community. It has everything you want, 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, 3 car garage, 2 living spaces and an open concept home. Anderson Windows! Tile in all the right areas. This is a ''MUST SEE'' home in this area. You will enjoy the morning sunrises as well as the evening sunsets from your lakefront backyard. Ventana Lakes is one of Peoria's premier 55+ communities. The community features 9 lakes, some with waterfalls, and great catch and release fishing. 4 community pools and spas, recreation and fitness rooms, billiards, fine arts, crafts and quilting rooms, handball, pickleball and tennis courts. Bingo games and more.

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2792 Kona Trail Flagstaff, AZ 86005

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,300 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6756366

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Located in a quiet cul de sac in Kachina Village, this single level home offers an abundancy of privacy and forest views. The large, covered deck overlooks a scenic canyon with towering ponderosa pines. The adjacent lot provides a walking path to National Forest. Inside you will find several sizable windows bringing in natural light and providing a wonderful space to view the four seasons that Northern Arizona provides. This is an incredible opportunity to own a move in ready home that grants the right mix of seclusion and convenience. There is a bonus room downstairs that is a blank canvas for a studio, storage, exercise room etc... The furnace and hot water heater were replaced about 3 years ago and a new roof with sheathing is being completed now. Interior paint was done just last week

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1543 E Oakland Street Chandler, AZ 85225

$580,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,060 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6769326

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Immaculate Single-Level Home with Pool—No HOA! Don't miss this stunning 3-bed, 2-bath home, complete w/a spacious 3-car garage, Conveniently located near shopping & schools, this beautifully updated property boasts an array of features that make it feel just like new. Step inside to discover tile & wood like flooring T/O. The kitchen features gorgeous granite countertops, refinished cabinets including a new stainless steel gas stove and a large pantry. The living room showcases a tiled fireplace & elegant wood shutters, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The bathrooms have been beautifully remodeled, featuring wood-look tile floors & a stunning walk-in shower in the primary bath. Recent updates include a brand-new heater and pump for the sparkling PebbleTec pool and spa, Enjoy the beautifully landscaped, private backyard with a heated pool and spa, perfect for entertaining or relaxing and an extended cool deck, this outdoor space is a true oasis. Additional highlights include high ceilings, two fireplaces, double front doors. The master suite features a separate exit to the backyard and a spacious walk-in closet. The third bedroom boasts the largest walk-in closet of all! Plus, you have your choice of outstanding elementary and middle schools nearby. Walk to the park down the street. Drive around the corner to Gilbert/Chandler Community College or Chandler Hospital or Phx/Mesa Gateway Airport. This home is truly a gem.

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