Please Note:

Auction guide companies aren't the only ones with access to information about federal government sales programs. In fact, the information is available free or at a low cost from the government. Some agencies maintain mailing lists to notify people about upcoming sales. They may charge a subscription fee to maintain the list and cover their mailing costs.

Information about foreclosure sales also is available online, through the Multiple Listing Service, a database used by real estate agents, and through newspapers and other publications.

The classified or business sections of national or local newspapers often publish information about upcoming sales. In addition, trade papers like Commerce Business Daily occasionally publish information on sales programs. Your local library or Chamber of Commerce may maintain subscriptions for public use.


If you respond to an ad from an Auction Guide

Avoid giving your bank account or credit card number to a company representative who says it's necessary for verification or credit.

Recognize that seized vehicles often are sold at government auctions, but rarely at the bargain prices quoted in some ads. Expect to pay what the vehicle is worth and to compete against other bidders, included used car dealers.

Be aware that foreclosed homes often are sold for slightly less than their appraised values, but may require substantial repairs.

Recognize that the auction guide company isn't the only source for the information you want. Contact individual government agencies for information about their sales programs. Ask to be put on a mailing list to be notified of upcoming sales. Some government sales programs advertise in the media, on the Internet or through postings in government buildings.

Get the name and location of the company and check it out with the local Better Business Bureau or state Attorney General.

Get a written copy of the return policy before you pay for an auction guide or list of foreclosed homes. Some fraudulent sellers of auction guides give consumers the impression that refunds are no problem. But often, the businesses put so many conditions on refunds that few consumers ever get them.

Use your credit card to pay for an auction guide. It offers more protections than other payment methods if you have a problem with the purchase.

Free listings for Government Property Auctions

- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

- U.S. Customs Service

- U.S. Marshals Service

- General Services Administration

- Freddie Mac

- Department of Veteran Affairs

- Bureau of Land Management

- Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)

- Department of Agriculture


Do your homework before attending a Government Auction

Before attending, research the sale by contacting the sponsoring agency. Find out how and when the sale or auction will be held, what bidding procedure will be used, and what special restrictions or unusual conditions apply. It's important to ask what forms of payment are accepted. Most sales require a guaranteed method of payment such as money order, certified check, or cash. Credit cards are sometimes accepted. Also, look for information prior to the sale on the buyer's responsibility for property removal, inspection times prior to t he sale, and zoning rules if purchasing land in an urban area. In most cases, the "Invitation For Bid" will answer these types of questions. It is an informational piece released by the sponsoring Federal agency that contains a description of the property being offered for sale with the sale terms and conditions. It's wise for potential buyers to attend several sales to get a feel for the auction process. With just a little research, you can get the information that you need to make a successful purchase.

Inspect the property carefully before buying

Chances are you will not find new or unused items at Federal Government sales. And because the sales items are used, the condition of the goods will vary. For example, some forfeited vehicles may be in excellent condition, others may have high mileage or a stripped interior. Although information about the condition will be given, it is still necessary to inspect before you purchase. It is the buyer's responsibility to verify that the description of the item fits its actual condition. Find out if the goods are sold "as is" or can be returned. Most sales are final.

Download a free .pdf auction guide with sales information on each auction, including how items are sold, how the auctions are advertised and what special restrictions and conditions to expect before you attend the auction.

Free Auction Guide