If you plan to participate in the auction in person, you'll want to arrive about an hour before the auction is scheduled to begin. Most properties are open for final inspection up to two hours before auction time. To bid on site, bring a valid driver's license and complete the brief registration form. You can also download the registration form from the property details page, complete it and bring it with you on auction day. You will still need to show your valid driver's license as proof of identification. The process only takes a few minutes. You will receive a yellow bidder card for use during the auction. To bid via Auction Network, please refer to the bidder registration instructions at the property details page. Some auctions may require a bidder deposit to be made in advance of the auction. This information will be clearly spelled out when you register.

Our auctioneer and auction team will begin setting up and preparing for the auction. You will notice other bidders and spectators begin to gather and assemble, readying themselves for the action.

The auctioneer will address the audience on-site and participating on Auction Network, read the terms and conditions for that particular auction, as well as any disclosures for the property. The auctioneer will introduce the auction team which includes ringmen, who act as facilitators between you and the auctioneer. It's important to know that the auctioneer controls the auction at all times. Williams & Williams auctioneers are the most experienced and talented in the business. If you have a question or concern related to the auction, please address it to the auctioneer.

Once the auctioneer feels that everyone is ready for the auction to begin, it's time to start bidding. The auctioneer will call for bids until he/she determines no one has any further bids to make. All registered participants have an opportunity to bid. The auctioneer will end the auction and declare "High bidder!" After the high bidder has officially been declared by the auctioneer, the high bidder will sign a high bidder acknowledgment form. This form confirms the property bid on, as well as the amount of the high bid. The high bidder will take this form to the contracting area to sign the contract and pay the earnest deposit.

Once the auction has concluded the high bidder completes a contract to be filed with Williams & Williams. At this time we will collect your earnest money, which is a percentage of the high bid (subject to a minimum). See individual property Terms of Sale for details. Earnest money can be paid on site using cash or a personal or certified check. Earnest money paid via Auction Network can be by credit card or wired funds.

If you are the high bidder, you will hear from a Williams & Williams representative who will outline the next steps in the purchase process. At anytime during the process, your designated closing manager will answer any questions you may have and will keep you apprised of the status of your purchase. Once you've closed, you will receive keys to your new property!