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

16026 W Alameda Road Surprise, AZ 85387

$579,378

4 Beds

3.5 Baths

2,674 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6649950

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MOVE IN READY, BRIGHT GREAT ROOM PLAN , QUICK CLOSE!! 4 BEDROOM PLUS LOFT, 3.5 BATH , 9'CEILINGS, GOURMET KITCHEN LAYOUT, UPGRADE CABINETS , GRANITE KITCHEN TOPS, SPA SHOWER, TILED FLOORING. 2'WHITE BLINDS, CEILING FANS, FRONT YARD LANSCAPING COMPLETED, ENERGY STAR QUALIFIED HOME, INDOOR AIR PLUS. A SHORT DISTANCE FROM THE COMMUNITY POOL AREA, PICNIC AREA, TOT LOTS, BASKETBALL, PICKLE BALL COURTSAND SO MUCH MORE.

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7810 E Quintana Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$579,340

5 Beds

3 Baths

1,960 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6783972

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MLS#6783972~Ready January ~The Harlow! This single-story home is the largest of the single-story floor plans, this home is sure to please. The gourmet kitchen with an island is only steps away and opens to the dining and gathering rooms, making a perfect setting for gatherings! The owner's suite is tucked away and shows off a corner entry bath featuring dual sinks and a huge walk-in closet. Three equally sized secondary bedrooms share a full bath. Structural upgrades include: added 5th bedroom and extended outdoor living.

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Show Low AZ 85901

$579,000

3 Beds

3 Baths

2,065 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6716176

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Gorgeous New Home on the Fairway! You will love the open concept floor plan conveying furnished. Offering beautiful laminate flooring, 11ft granite kitchen Island, lg pantry, 8ft interior doors, stone gas FP, Master BR w/sitting area/office, granite in both baths, Trex decking, fenced, landscaped & more.

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22261 W Ocupado Drive Wittmann, AZ 85361

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,900 SqFt

Status Active Under Contract

MLS # 6763926

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Are you wanting to live in a no HOA area? Would you love to have an RV garage? How about a BRAND NEW Home? Located close to Grand Ave. This home will be done before the holidays. This gorgeous home features 3 great size bedrooms, the master has a stunning huge tiled walk in shower. Custom cabinets through out home (Buyers choice from samples) and Beautiful granite countertops. There is wood look tile though out. The layout of this home is great, there is a walk through laundry with a wash station. The home also sits North/South which is highly desired. Builder will consider putting up a block wall around backyard. This can be negotiated into the purchase price. PHOTOS ARE FROM COMPLETED HOME!!

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104 N 3114 -- Vernon, AZ 85940

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,866 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6713245

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Tucked away in the White Mountain landscape, this custom-built, full-log cabin offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern updates on an expansive 10.57-acre lot. Featuring 2 spacious bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a grand loft, this home provides ample space for relaxation and enjoyment. Step outside to enjoy the covered porch and open deck, perfect for soaking in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The property is heavily treed, creating a private, tranquil setting. Inside, admire the beautiful hardwood floors and exposed logs that highlight the cabin's craftsmanship. The charming, updated kitchen is equipped with modern amenities, perfect for any culinary enthusiast. The exterior of the cabin has been recently refreshed, and the floors have been carefully refinished by hand, ensuring this home is move-in ready. Animal lovers will appreciate the fact that the property is already set up for your furry friends. Come experience comfort in this White Mountain retreat.

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6298 S Dean Road Buckeye, AZ 85326

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,639 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6720711

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to this charming home that offers modern comfort on a quiet private street. This open floor plan concept has stainless steel appliances with a large kitchen island and rear covered patio sitting on 2plus acres! Conveniently located close to Sundance & Canyon Trails Towne Centers, schools, parks, and shopping, golf and more! Est. completion date Feb. 2025.

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18225 W Paseo Way Goodyear, AZ 85338

$579,000

5 Beds

3 Baths

3,058 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6760115

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This 5-bdrm, 3-bath Ashton Woods home is nestled within the highly coveted Estrella Mtn. Ranch community. It offers over 3,000 sqft and is adorned with updated laminate flooring, lighting, ceiling fans, and stainless appliances, creating a modern and inviting atmosphere. This residence boasts a first-floor bdrm or office and full bath, complemented upstairs by a split primary suite, three additional generously proportioned bdrms, and a versatile loft space that can be customized to suit your needs. Out back there's an oversized covered patio with pergola, overlooking a mature landscaped backyard with a tranquil fountain and fireplace with large flagstone seating area. Home is a short distance from schools, grocery, residents club & lakes! Don't miss out on this one!

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22410 N Arrellaga Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$579,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,684 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6775501

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Presenting blue skies and green grass as far as the eye can see! This beautiful Arcada model is perfectly positioned on an elevated lot & on the 5th Fairway of Corte Bella Country Club. This home captures a stunning environment that's designed to make every day seem like you're on vacation. The covered patio spans the width of the house and pavers invite you to sit by the firepit or trickling fountain. The focal point of the living room is the designer entertainment wall with lighted niches. The dining area has a view! The kitchen includes gas stove and granite counters, Two spacious bedrooms and a den with double doors. The bonus space behind the kitchen can be used for a desk, hobby room, pet room, or air-conditioned storage. Most of the furniture is available outside of escrow.

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2103 W Claremont Street Phoenix, AZ 85015

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,495 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6778124

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Stunning transformed home showcasing meticulous design and lavish upgrades throughout. As you approach, custom security and entry doors welcome you. Upon entering, custom luxury vinyl plank floors flow seamlessly into the open-concept living area. The chef's dream kitchen features top-of-the-line premium appliances, custom cabinetry, and a massive quartz-topped center island. The spacious master suite is a true sanctuary, offering a huge walk-in closet with its own washer and dryer hookup. The luxurious en-suite bathroom features a custom tiled walk-in shower with built-in seating, a freestanding soaking tub, and a double vanity with stylish fixtures. Additionally, the home includes two multi-functional bonus rooms PLUS an indoor enclosed patio. A true dream home!

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27015 N 55th Lane Phoenix, AZ 85083

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,234 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6784325

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

EXQUISITE HOME WITH 3 CAR GARAGE ON A LARGE LOT. The attractive curb appeal greets you upon arrival. Once inside, you might be dazzled with the beauty of this elegant home. Pass through the Formal Dining Room (or use as a den) to an open Great Room featuring a huge Family Room, spacious dining area & kitchen with eating counter. There is all hard-surfaced flooring with gorgeous tile and wood throughout. PLANTATION SHUTTERS THROUGHOUT THE HOME. Bedrooms are very generous in size...all bedrooms have walk-in closets. ALL APPLIANCES ARE INCLUDED. (FURNITURE IS AVAILABLE TOO.) The yard has a large covered patio with plenty of room for a future pool if desired. Double-gates to the wide side yard. Mature landscaping adorns the front & back yard of this wonderful home in desirable Stetson Valley.

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1124 S Sycamore Circle Unit 1 Payson, AZ 85541

$579,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,650 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6786712

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Wow! Is what you will say when you step into this brand new 2024 Home in Pinon Ridge! 3 bedroom/2 bath open concept with views of the Rim. Take the steps up to this one level home and walk into an open and bright living room with vaulted ceilings which opens up to the covered wrap around deck. The low maintenance yard is ready to put your plants and flowers in the raised bed area. The home backs to reservation land to allow for a very private backyard. Dining Room has amazing views of the Rim, laminate wood flooring throughout, with carpet in the bedrooms Split floor plan with a large primary, private access to the patio, large walk in closet and large en-suite with rock inlayed shower, amazing counter space with dual sinks, Laundry room, 2 Car Garage

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14874 W Luna Circle Litchfield Park, AZ 85340

$579,000

4 Beds

2 Baths

2,285 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6785958

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom + Den home on an oversized corner lot in the desirable Village at Litchfield Park. The bright, open floor plan features a spacious great room that flows into the kitchen and dining area, perfect for entertaining. The kitchen boasts gorgeous upgraded cabinets, granite countertops, stylish backsplash, a large island with a breakfast bar, stainless steel appliances and a gas cooktop with double ovens. The primary suite is separate from the other bedrooms, offering privacy and luxury with a bathroom that includes a soaking tub, dual sinks, and a walk-in closet. The lush backyard features an extended covered paver patio and mature landscaping—an ideal spot for gatherings and enjoying stunning Arizona sunsets.

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