Frequently Asked Questions

Auctions work well for a wide range of properties — single-family homes, investment properties, vacant land, distressed homes, and estate sales. They're particularly effective when you value a defined timeline over the uncertainty of a traditional listing. Contact us for a free consultation and we'll tell you honestly if an auction is the right fit.

Listing is free. RealBids.co earns a commission only when your property sells — we don't charge upfront listing fees. Commission structure and any applicable auction costs will be discussed and agreed upon before you sign anything.

No. Before the auction, we work with you to set a confidential reserve price — the minimum you're willing to accept. If bidding doesn't reach your reserve, you are not obligated to sell. This protects you while still creating competitive bidding energy.

Typically 45–60 days from initial consultation to closing. This includes a 1–2 week marketing period, the auction itself, and a 30–45 day closing window. It's significantly faster than the average traditional listing, which can take 3–6 months or more.

Properties don't need to be in perfect condition to sell at auction. In fact, auctions are often ideal for properties that need work, because they attract cash buyers and investors who are comfortable buying as-is. We disclose the property condition fully and price expectations accordingly.

Competitive bidding is specifically designed to produce market value — or above it in strong demand scenarios. Multiple qualified buyers bidding in real time push the price to exactly what the market will pay. You eliminate the risk of underpricing through a single off-market offer.

We are currently licensed and operating in Georgia and South Carolina. Ryan Pirkle holds active real estate and auctioneer licenses in both states. We are expanding — contact us if you have property in a neighboring state.

We create professional listings with photos, property disclosures, and full auction terms. Properties are marketed across our buyer network, online real estate platforms, investor groups, and local networks in Georgia and South Carolina — ensuring maximum qualified buyer reach before auction day.

Yes. We encourage buyer due diligence before the auction. Depending on the property and listing, we coordinate showing windows during the marketing period. All available disclosures and property information are provided to prospective buyers upfront.

After the auction, the winning buyer executes a purchase contract. Closing follows standard real estate procedures through a title company or real estate attorney. You receive your net proceeds at closing, just as you would in any real estate transaction.

Yes. You'll create a free account and complete buyer registration for each property you wish to bid on. Some auctions require a refundable earnest money deposit to participate — this is disclosed in the listing before you register to bid.

Yes. By placing a bid, you are making a legally binding commitment to purchase at that price if you are the winning bidder and the seller accepts. Only bid what you are prepared to pay. Review all auction terms and property disclosures before bidding.

A buyer's premium is an additional percentage added to the winning bid price to determine the final purchase price. For example, if you win with a bid of $100,000 and there is a 5% buyer's premium, the total purchase price would be $105,000. Any applicable buyer's premium is clearly disclosed in each auction listing before bidding opens.

We strongly encourage you to do so. All properties are sold as-is, meaning you are buying in their current condition with no warranties. Review all disclosures and conduct independent due diligence — including inspections where offered — before placing a bid.

Financing is generally not contingent in auction contracts. Most auction purchases are made with cash or pre-arranged financing. If you plan to use financing, you must have your financing fully arranged before bidding. Consult with your lender in advance. Specific financing terms vary by listing.

Reserve prices are confidential. If bidding does not meet the seller's reserve, the seller may choose not to sell — or may negotiate with the highest bidder after the auction closes. Absolute auctions (no reserve) will always sell to the highest bidder and are clearly labeled as such.