Dear Buyer’s Agent

Dear Buyer’s Agent,

Let me start by saying that I truly appreciate the role you play in the buying process. Your client looks to you for advice, guidance, and support in finding the right property, negotiating, and ensuring all the details are in order. But I need to be blunt—there’s something you need to understand when it comes to real estate auctions, and it’s not complicated: read the terms, follow the process, and let your buyer BID.

I get it—auctions aren’t the “norm” for some, and maybe you’ve never done one before. But here’s the deal: the process is simple, transparent, and not negotiable. The reason we’re having an auction is because the sellers have chosen this method as the most efficient, clear-cut way to sell their property. 

Let me lay it out for you:

1. There are NO pre-auction offers. The terms clearly state this. Yet, somehow, I still get calls asking if the seller will consider one. No. They won’t. The property is going to auction because the auction process ensures a fair and open competition among buyers, not behind-the-scenes deals.

2. The terms of sale are outlined. They’re not hidden in the fine print; they’re laid out plainly. There’s a deposit amount required, closing dates, buyer’s premium, and even buyer agent compensation. Why am I still getting questions about financing or closing timelines when it’s all there for you? Please—read the terms. Then make sure your buyer does the same.

3. Call and ask questions BEFORE the auction. I don’t mind answering questions. In fact, I welcome them! But don’t wait until your buyer’s confused in the middle of the auction to ask me about something that was available to you in advance. Your job as an agent is to help your client be informed, and that means gathering all the details before the bidding begins and ends.

But, here’s the kicker—what really stumps me: 

When you ask if the property is “for sale” or an “auction property.”

Let me help you out. It’s an auction. The property is, of course, for sale! That’s the entire point. It’s a public sale, where your buyer’s chance of winning depends on one thing: their bid. That’s what an auction is! You aren’t haggling over the price like it’s a traditional listing—you’re competing openly. The highest qualified bidder wins. Simple.

Instead of trying to derail the auction process, focus on preparing your buyer to participate before the auction end date. Go see the property. Attend the open houses or schedule a viewing. Do your due diligence. Make sure your client is ready to bid. Then, register and BID. 

You’ve done your job when your buyer is ready to take part in the auction with confidence. You’re not serving them by spending energy on loopholes, backdoors, or alternatives to the auction method. The property is available, the rules are set, and it’s time to compete.

When you’re ready to step up and have your buyer engage in the process, I’ll be more than happy to see you at the auction. Until then, please—save us both some time, read the terms, and remember what the word auction really means.

Best regards,  
Your Friendly Real Estate Auctioneer