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.

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

2814 S Fossil Creek Lane Flagstaff, AZ 86001

$565,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,710 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6739279

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome home! This bright and cheery 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom home is fully furnished, boasting a thoughtful and cozi layout. The sunny living room welcomes you as you enter the home, with a comfortably sized powder room conveniently tucked away beneath the staircase. The dining room seamlessly combines with the kitchen, which features stainless steel appliances and a convenient breakfast bar for casual dining... The ample primary suite offers a peaceful escape with its well-appointed design-including plenty of room for a work station, treadmill or reading nook. A great feature of this home is the 2-car tandem garage, providing substantial space for your vehicles and additional storage needs. The backyard is surrounded by privacy fencing, complete with a paved patio area - perfect for ent

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5497 S Joshua Tree Lane Gilbert, AZ 85298

$565,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

1,840 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6746360

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover this impeccably maintained 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom home with an inviting open concept floor plan, nestled in the prestigious Bridge community. The updated kitchen features a natural gas oven/stove, a new microwave, a dishwasher, and a triple filtration system. This well-designed space seamlessly transitions into the dining and living areas, perfect for modern living. The extended garage offers ample space for large vehicles or additional storage. Professionally installed pavers adorn the side of the home, leading to a beautifully landscaped backyard. Enjoy a versatile outdoor area with a 16' x 2.5' planting bed, a 5' x 11' paved storage area, a covered patio, and a built-in gas hookup for your grill. Additional highlights include an owned water softener, stylish floating flooring in the master bedroom, a custom-designed screen door at the front entry, and a security system ready for reactivation. Experience the exceptional features of this home firsthand.

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3211 E Kerry Lane Phoenix, AZ 85050

$565,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

1,880 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6758934

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Nestled in a quiet cul-de-sac, this stunning 4-bed, 2.5-bath home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Enjoy the benefits of energy efficiency with Newly Leased solar panels. Relax in a Refreshing Pool at the end of your day or all weekend long! There are no neighbors behind to peer down at you. The sleek remodeled kitchen offers modern appliances, quartz countertops, and ample cabinetry, perfect for any home chef. Just minutes from Desert Ridge Shopping, Loop 101, and the Musical Instrument Museum. Fantastic location to get you anywhere in the Greater Metro area quickly.

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2133 N Atwood -- Mesa, AZ 85207

$565,000

2 Beds

2 Baths

1,379 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6759727

Property Type Townhouse

Price Type --

Escape to your own Desert Oasis! This radiant 2 bed, 2 bath retreat in the coveted Mountain Bridge Community is ready to welcome you home. Built in 2017, this light-filled haven features a split floorplan, modern upgrades & abundant storage, including built-in garage cabinets. The kitchen is a chef's dream w/stainless steel appliances, generous pantry & ample counter space. The oversized laundry room & private grassy backyard backing to a scenic desert wash offer extra comfort. HOA covers roof & exterior paint making it a perfect lock-and-leave option. Mountain Bridge is an award-winning master-planned community w/extensive amenities- pools, fitness centers, tennis, pickleball & basketball courts, plus playground putting green. Bella Via adds its own private pool, spa, clubhouse & more!

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3819 N Springfield Street Buckeye, AZ 85396

$565,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

2,036 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6764983

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

LOCATED IN HIGHLY DESIRABLE VERRADO, PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP, PARKING FOR 6 CARS! This Pulte Magnolia model features a cozy front porch, high-end turf in both front and backyard, expansive great room that opens to the gourmet kitchen w/island, breakfast bar, eat-in kitchen, formal dining room, staggered cabinets, Corian countertops, granite stone sink, wall oven, cooktop, black appliances, and a large pantry, the split master floor plan includes an oversized master suite, his/her closets, raised vanities w/double sinks, separate tub/shower, 2 large additional bedrooms, and full bath. The backyard boast of a covered patio, extended custom pavers designed for a park-like setting, built-in pergola makes this the perfect place for entertaining. The 2car garage includes high-end epoxy flooring, storage cabinets, an extended driveway with room to park 4 additional vehicles.

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22337 E Via Del Palo -- Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$565,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,162 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6765247

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Discover a stunning two-story home nestled within the prestigious Villages at Queen Creek Golf Course community. This corner lot residence offers breathtaking mountain views, a refreshing community pool, and a spacious interior designed for comfortable living. Key features include:Prime Location, Enjoy easy access to the 60 and 202 freeways, as well as a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Enjoy the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the ground floor. Modern Updates include new tile, and updated cabinets and granite countertops. The expansive open concept living space features vaulted ceilings, a large kitchen with an island, and a generous pantry. Don't Miss this opportunity to make this house yours!

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272 N 167th Lane Goodyear, AZ 85338

$565,000

4 Beds

3 Baths

2,735 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767667

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Welcome to your dream home in Canyon Trails! Nestled in a peaceful cul-de-sac, this 4-bedroom, 3-bathroom residence is loaded with premium upgrades. Step outside to your own slice of paradise, featuring a splash pad for endless summer fun and an outdoor kitchen perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining family and friends. The area directly behind your back fence boasts lush greenery, ensuring added privacy for your backyard. Enjoy the convenience of a full bedroom and bathroom on the main level, ideal for guests or multi-generational living. The extended garage provides ample space for your vehicles, while the built-in shelving offers extra storage and a dedicated workspace. Upstairs, the primary bedroom features a luxurious walk-in shower and two separate walk-in closets.

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10521 E Hawk Avenue Mesa, AZ 85212

$565,000

3 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,104 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6767313

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Beautiful residence in the esteemed Eastmark Community is the one! Lovely curb appeal with a well-maintained front yard and a 3-car garage. Be welcomed by an inviting foyer leading to the spacious living room enhanced with tall ceilings, pre-wired surround sound, and sleek wood-look tile flooring. The chef's kitchen is fully equipped with an electric cooktop, a wall oven, granite counters, a walk-in pantry, ample white cabinetry with crown molding, and an island with a breakfast bar. The primary retreat has plush carpeting, an immaculate ensuite, and a walk-in closet. Secondary bedrooms enjoy a Jack & Jill bathroom! The home's elegance extends outdoors to the tranquil backyard with a covered patio and pavers, great for relaxation. Make this gem yours today!

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17814 N 137th Drive Sun City West, AZ 85375

$565,000

2 Beds

3 Baths

2,532 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6776829

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This exquisite San Simeon model was originally designed by Del Webb as a 3-bedroom home or 2 bed with study. This particular one is unique because it actually has a 3rd bathroom. As you approach this stunning property, you're greeted by a private front courtyard that promises tranquil mornings and an intimate space for reflection or casual conversation. Inside, you'll find a home that with a spacious layout that is perfect for both relaxation and entertaining. The living spaces flow seamlessly to the extended back patio, where the home's true gem lies: breathtaking views of the golf course, lake, and distant mountains that has delighted the owners for a quarter of a century enjoying these sunsets from the extended patio. Garage can accommodate a golf-cart. Roof replaced 2019. Situated on a tranquil street void of through traffic, it's peaceful, yet convenience is just around the corner, with easy access to all the shopping, dining, and amenities that Sun City West has to offer. Live your adventure now.

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112 N 3rd Street Buckeye, AZ 85326

$565,000

5 Beds

6.5 Baths

5,264 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6769706

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

Check out 1 of Historical Downtown Buckeye building that was built in 1927. Flood irrigation is available on this 15000 sq ft lot. This property can be residential or commercial. it has 5 bed, 6.5 baths . Roof had new sealant , all new pool equipment, and resurfacing. new primary shower, new flooring in dining area, remodeled front half bath. new hot water heater. 2 car garage plus 8 assigned parking spaces. Basement has bedroom and bath plus living area. Green house and a shed. Shared parking with bank,verify all info.

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23105 E Camina Buena Vista Queen Creek, AZ 85142

$565,000

4 Beds

2.5 Baths

2,381 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6777387

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

MUST SEE! Take a look at this incredible 2,381 sqft single-story home with 4 bedrooms, large GREAT ROOM, and a prime spot near the community pool, splash pad, and parks—perfect for relaxing and having fun! Step inside to find a spacious, open floor plan that brings together the living, dining, and kitchen areas, making it great for both everyday life and hosting. The living room is bright and airy, thanks to large windows and a sliding glass door that lets in an abundance of natural light. The open kitchen has a sleek, modern look with upgraded countertops, plenty of cabinets, and a HUGE ISLAND —ideal for casual meals or hanging out with guests. The kitchen opens up perfectly to the great room and dining areas. The primary suite is split perfectly from the other three bedrooms features an upgraded bathroom. Head out back to enjoy a beautifully designed yard with a large covered patio, a cozy paver sitting area, and a low maintenance artificial turf area. It's perfect for entertaining, gardening, or just kicking back in your own private space to watch a breathtaking Arizona sunset. Other features include: 3 car tandem epoxy garage with built-in storage, energy efficient home, vinyl frame windows, new carpet, mudroom, reverse osmosis, water softener, tankless water heater, and so much more. This home is perfectly located in Queen Creek, AZ with every convenience just minutes away - close to shopping, Golfing, Freeways, Dining, Schools, Downtown Queen Creek. You don't want to miss out on this property. Schedule your showing today!

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813 W Diamond Drive Tempe, AZ 85283

$565,000

3 Beds

2 Baths

1,915 SqFt

Status Active

MLS # 6782021

Property Type Single Family Residence

Price Type --

This beautifully upgraded home is a standout gem! Thoughtfully renovated inside and out, this home combines efficiency, elegance, and high-end finishes and is 100% move-in-ready. Be the very first to live in this freshly renovated home! Stunning wood-look porcelain tile throughout the entire home - no carpet here! Upgrades include solid maple cabinet doors, white quartz countertops, all new dual pane argon windows throughout the home, new fans, hardware, light fixtures, toilets, mirrors, and the list goes on and on!! The details and touches put into this home are unmatched. Freshly epoxied garage with storage cabinets, plus a RV gate w\ concrete slab for your motorhome, boats, or other toys. Add this one your short list - this home is gorgeous and completely turnkey!!

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