Auction & Bidding Questions
Learn about what an auction is, how to register, how to pay for items and more.
Learn about maximum bids, placing bids, forced bids and more.
Atterberry Auction & Realty Company Answers Frequently Asked Questions About Auctions in Mid-Missouri
Buying real estate or personal property at auction is a straightforward and transparent experience when you understand the steps involved. Atterberry Auction & Realty Company uses a streamlined online auction platform that allows buyers to participate from anywhere, which makes the process convenient for both first time bidders and experienced auction buyers. Our approach is designed to give you clear information before you place a bid, real time updates as the auction progresses, and confidence in the fairness of the bidding system from start to finish.
Because every Atterberry auction takes place online, you have the ability to review item descriptions, property details, photographs, preview information, bidding increments, and closing times long before the auction begins. This helps you make informed decisions and understand the full picture before placing a bid. During the auction, you can actively monitor activity, set max bids, track competing bids, and receive automatic notifications so you never miss an update.
Whether you are bidding on a home, land, tools, equipment, antiques or vehicles – our goal is to make sure you know exactly how the process works. The information below walks you through registration, bidding, payments, previews, pickup procedures, and what to expect if you win. With a little preparation and a clear understanding of the process, you can bid with confidence.
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How do I register to bid in an Atterberry auction?
Registration is completed through our online bidding platform. After selecting the auction you are interested in, you will be prompted to create an account, enter your contact information, and agree to the terms and conditions.
We encourage bidders to register early so there is plenty of time to ask questions or confirm any details before the auction begins.
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How does online bidding work?
Online bidding allows you to compete in real time from anywhere. Each item or property has a starting bid and a clearly displayed timeline.
Once the auction opens, you can enter bids at any time until the closing period begins.
The platform tracks all activity so bidders can monitor current bids, time remaining, and auction updates throughout the sale.
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What is a max bid?
A max bid is the highest amount you are willing to pay for an item or property. You enter a max bid amount into the same field that you would enter a regular bid.
Once you enter a max bid, if someone bids against you, the system automatically bids on your behalf using the smallest possible increments up until your max bid is reached.
This keeps you competitive without requiring you to watch the auction every second. If another bidder places a higher amount that exceeds your max bid, you will be alerted and can decide whether to increase your bid.
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Does bidding extend if someone places a bid near closing time?
Yes. Our online auctions use an extended bidding feature. If a bid is placed within the final moments of an item or property ending, additional time is added. This prevents last second “sniping” and ensures every bidder has a fair chance to respond. Extensions continue until no more bids are placed. See terms and conditions of the auction for specific extension times.
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How will I know if I won an auction item or property?
If you are the winning bidder, you will receive an email notification shortly after the auction closes. The message will include instructions for next steps. For personal property, this includes payment and pickup details. For real estate, our team will reach out to you regarding next steps.
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What types of payment are accepted?
Accepted payment methods vary by auction and are listed in the terms and conditions for each sale. Personal property invoices may be paid online or during pickup. Real estate transactions will be coordinated by the real estate team after the auction ends.
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How do item pickup and removal work for personal property auctions?
Each auction has designated pickup dates and times. Winning bidders must pick up their items during these scheduled windows. Please read all pickup instructions carefully, especially for heavy, large, or specialty items that may require additional equipment or assistance.
If items are forgotten or you miss pickup day, you may be subject to a haul back fee. Our team organizes the process to keep pickup day efficient and well managed for our sellers and buyers.
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Can I inspect items or property before bidding?
Yes. We offer preview opportunities for both real estate and personal property auctions. These previews allow buyers to examine items in person or tour a property before placing a bid. Details about preview times and locations are listed on each auction page. We strongly encourage bidders to take advantage of these opportunities.
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Are there any additional fees when bidding?
Most auctions include a buyer’s premium, which is a standard fee added to the winning bid. This amount varies by auction and is clearly stated in the terms and conditions.
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How can I make sure I don’t miss bidding updates?
Once registered, you can enable email or text notifications through your bidding account. These alerts let you know when you have been outbid, when the auction is nearing closing, or when important updates are posted.
What should I do if I have questions during an auction? Contact Atterberry Auction & Realty Company – our team would be more than happy to assist you.
