Frequently Asked Questions
Who is conducting the sale?
The Sheriff is conducting the sale as the court-appointed selling officer. The Sheriff is using online auction technology from Roup LLC. Roup is not conducting the sale.
How do I bid?
There are three ways to enter a bid.
You can click the “refresh” icon and let the system determine your bid based on the minimum increment.
You can enter your bid manually. The system will let you know if your bid is too low due to the minimum increment.
You can enter a maximum bid. The system will automatically enter bids on your behalf in minimum increments up to your maximum amount.
Can you explain max bidding (i.e, automatic bidding) in more detail?
Automatic bidding (aka “maximum” or “proxy” bidding) allows you to enter the highest amount you are willing to pay. If you want to place a maximum bid, you can do so by simply submitting the maximum amount you are willing to pay.
You may be competing against other bidders who have also entered maximum bids. In that case, the system will automatically keep the bidder with the highest maximum bid in the lead, increasing bids in the minimum increment as needed. If another bidder has a higher maximum than yours, you will be automatically outbid until you enter a higher maximum.
If applying a minimum increment would exceed a bidder’s maximum, the system will instead place a bid at that bidder’s exact maximum amount.
Can anyone place the first bid?
Yes. Bidding does not need to start with the plaintiff’s opening bid.
What if I enter the wrong bid by mistake?
All bids are final once submitted. You will have a chance to confirm your bid before placing it. You should review your bid carefully to make sure it is correct.
Why do I keep getting outbid immediately?
Because the system is bidding automatically on behalf of someone who entered a maximum bid that is higher than your bid.
Why does the auction sometimes remain open after the scheduled end time?
Because the system automatically extends the auction if bidding takes place as the scheduled end time nears. The extra time is called the “anti-snipe” period. The anti-snipe period gives all bidders extra time to submit their final bid before the clock expires.
Why was the auction postponed or cancelled?
Because an auction might be postponed or cancelled at any time by the Sheriff, the court, or the law firm that requested the sale.
Can I inspect the property before I bid?
No. You are not allowed to access the property or disturb the occupants.
If I win the auction, can I change the locks right away?
No. The sale is not final until it is approved by the court, and you are not allowed to enter the property to change the locks until after the court approves the sale.
When can I take possession of the property?
If the court approves the sale, the Order Approving Sale should provide the date of possession.
If the court does not approve the sale, how will I get my money back?
Your payment will be refunded only after the court enters an order directing the Sheriff to issue a refund to you. This order might take a significant amount of time.
When is the deed issued?
A deed will not be issued until after court approves the sale. This might take a significant amount of time.
Who prepares the deed?
The buyer is responsible for preparing and recording the deed and for paying all the fees and costs related to recording the transfer of ownership.
Will I get keys to the house?
No. Keys are not provided.
Will I get clear title?
Not necessarily. The property might be subject to liens, claims, or unpaid taxes. You should conduct your own due diligence regarding title.
What if the property is occupied?
If the property is occupied and an eviction is required, the buyer is responsible for requesting an eviction and paying the fees for an eviction. An eviction is not included in the auction.