Auction House Birmingham & Black Country, Aldridge., Aldridge

• Auctions do not work for everyone, so make sure the process is right for you before you get in too deep.
• It is vital you know what you want and why you want it - if you are not totally sure on this you should not attempt to buy at auction.

• Subscribe to newsletters to ensure you keep up to date with all available property lots.
• Keep reading local press and visit our website regularly to ensure you are fully aware of all upcoming auctions.
• Hear about properties that are right for you as soon as they become available, this gives you the best chance to view options and plan your next move.

• View the electronic catalogue on our website or ask for the printed version; we can mail it to you or you can pick one up from our office.
• This will contain finalised details of all properties in an upcoming auction - including photos, guide prices and usually a floorplan.
• If a catalogue is not available, you can view draft property details on our website or they can be emailed to you on request.

• Try to visit the property on it's first open day. If possible take someone with you who's opinion you value as this will help you make a better judgement on the property.
• Auction House Team Members will be available at the Open Day to Talk to answer any questions you have about the property.
• Visit the property again - this will allow you to gauge whether the thoughts you had during your initial viewing were accurate.

• Properties sold at auction may not always be in the best condition.
• It is important to consider having a survey, quotes or reports from builders and specialist tradesmen before you decide to bid on a property.
• Make sure you receive all of these prior to the auction and you have all the information you require before bidding on a property.

• It is important to involve your solicitors in this process at the earliest possible point.
• They will inspect the legal packs and other information, such as searches and planning permission - these can be accessed online.
• Their advice and expertise could prove invaluable before committing to bid.
• Remember once the hammer comes down it's too late to change any terms or your mind.

Organise Finance

• You will need:
  • 10% of the purchase price available on the day of the auction (subject to a minimum on low priced properties)
  • The remainder of the purchase price and fees in readiness for completion (usually within 28 days of the auction)
• You can organise this with your financial adviser, bank or through the use of short-term finance; our recommended associates are Auction Finance or Bridging Finance.
• Note: It is important to contact your insurers as after exchange you will be responsible for the insurance of the property.

Determine Your Bid

• Be organised - ensure you determine your budget before the auction and include all costs that will occur after a successful bid, such as professional fees and stamp duty.
• There will be an administration fee to be paid to the auctioneers for their services.
• Set a maximum bid level before the auction and make sure you stick to it to ensure you do not get carried away and exceed your means.

Auction Day Tips

• Always check before the auction that the property you are interested in has not been withdrawn prior.
• Arrive at the auction in plenty of time - auctions can often be very busy with limited space and you should make sure you are in clear view of the auctioneer's rostrum.
• Last minute changes to catalogue entries will be handed out on an 'addendum' at the auction.
• If you have any queries prior to the start of the auction, please speak to either our auctioneer or a member of the Auction House team.
• Ensure you make it clear when you wish to bid on a property by holding up either your hand or a catalogue.
• If you wish to bid a different amount than is being offered by the auctioneer, you can shout this out.

After the Hammer Falls

• The fall of the hammer signifies the sale which is legally binding sale.
• At this point if you have been successful, you must pay a 10% deposit and sign a memorandum of sale.
• Make sure you have forms of ID with you:
  • either a passport or driving license and
  • a utility bill
• If the property you are interested in does not reach it's reserve and is not sold in the room - speak with a member of the Auction House team and inform them you are still interested. It may be possible for a sale to be completed quickly under auction rules.