EXPERT AUCTION BIDDING AND NEGOTIATION SERVICES

SAVE MONEY AND SECURE YOUR PROPERTY AT AUCTION

Auctions are highly competitive and stressful, and a buyers agent will often try to secure a property before auction. However, if a seller is determined to go to market, it is vital to have an auction strategy in place in order to buy the right property, for the right price. Your auction bidding strategy can be the difference between winning and losing your dream property.

Cohen Handler’s Buyers Agents will work with you to ensure you don’t overpay and have the best possible chance of winning your auction.

Who should use Cohen Handler’s Auction Bidding service?

  • If you are not comfortable with bidding or how to build an auction strategy
  • You are unsure of the dynamics at play between other bidders and the vendor
  • You do not want to attend in person to maintain anonymity
  • You are not sure how much you should be bidding
  • Unable to attend the auction in person
  • You want to leverage Cohen Handler’s network of real estate agents in order to get a competitive advantage
  • Concerned you are too emotionally invested in the property and might overpay

WHAT CAN A COHEN HANDLER BUYERS AGENT DO FOR YOU AT AUCTION?

  • Be your professional negotiator and buyer’s advocate
  • Provide advice on market comparisons to determine if a property is overpriced, underpriced or at fair market value
  • Utilise tactics and strategies based on experience and training to give you a competitive edge at auction
  • Guide you through the auction process and rules
  • Understand and navigate auctioneers’ tactics to make sure you don’t get intimidated or overpay
  • Act on your behalf if you either can’t or don’t want to attend an auction in person
  • Post-auction negotiation if the property passes in

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT AUSTRALIAN AUCTIONS

What are current auction clearance rates?

Cohen Handler closely monitors metro-city and state-wide auction clearance rates. These rates are a key indicator for the level of future competition in the market and can help inform an auction bidding strategy.

Generally, higher clearance rates suggest stronger buyer demand, which can create more competitive auction conditions. Lower clearance rates may indicate a softer market, where buyers can have more room to negotiate.

AUCTION BIDDING SERVICES IN SYDNEY, MELBOURNE AND BEYOND

Cohen Handler provides expert auction representation in major markets nationwide, helping you navigate competitive auction conditions with confidence. Key locations include:

  • Sydney
  • Melbourne
  • Brisbane
  • Gold Coast
  • Sunshine Coast
  • Adelaide
  • Perth
  • Canberra

No matter where you’re buying, our agents act in your best interest throughout the auction process, as required under the Property and Stock Agents Act.

Key words to know that help you win at auction:

The minimum price that the seller is willing to accept for the item or property. If the bidding does not reach this price, the item won’t be sold.

A bid made by the auctioneer on behalf of the seller. This is used to advance the bidding but cannot be used once the reserve price is reached.

The final bid amount when the auctioneer’s hammer falls, indicating the item has been sold.

This occurs when the highest bid does not meet the reserve price, and the property is not sold at auction.

A bid made by someone who cannot attend the auction. They submit their maximum bid in advance, and the auctioneer bids on their behalf.

Auction strategy keywords in Australia

Refers to an item or property being sold at an auction.

A document provided to potential bidders at an auction, usually containing the rules and conditions of the auction.

A period after the auction where the buyer can change their mind and cancel the sale. This period varies by state in Australia.

The first bid placed at the auction.

The moment when the auctioneer closes the bidding and the property is sold.

Win at an auction with strategy

Scheduled times when potential bidders can view the property before the auction.

A significantly higher bid than the previous one, often used to intimidate other bidders.

The price at which the property is sold at the auction, synonymous with hammer price.

Indicates that the reserve price has been met and the property will be sold to the highest bidder.

A bid placed by someone representing a bidder who is not physically present at the auction.

Another term for reserve price, the minimum price the seller will accept.

A document provided by the seller detailing the property’s legal description, zoning, restrictions, etc.

The minimum amount by which a new bid must exceed the previous bid.

Occurs when a seller accepts a verbal offer on a property but then accepts a higher offer from another buyer.

The time between the auction and when the buyer takes possession of the property.

PUT AN EXPERIENCED BIDDER IN YOUR CORNER

If you want the confidence of having an experienced professional represent you on auction day, Cohen Handler’s auction bidding services give you the support and control needed to compete in high-pressure conditions.

Speak with our team today to discuss your property brief and have an expert ready to act for you, fast.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DOES COHEN HANDLER’S AUCTION STRATEGY DIFFER FROM OTHER BUYERS AGENTS?

Cohen Handler’s auction strategy is built around preparation, market awareness and experienced bidding under pressure. Before auction day, we assess the house or investment property, the likely competition and the seller’s position, so you are not bidding blindly. We also understand the tactics auctioneers and selling agents use to drive the price higher, allowing you to stay composed and bid with purpose.

Is it OK to bid against yourself at auction as an auction bidding strategy?

Technically, you can bid against yourself at an auction, and a real estate agent may encourage this if the property has not yet reached the reserve price. However, it might be more advantageous to negotiate with the vendor if the property passes in (doesn’t sell at auction), so it is important to have a good understanding of your auction bidding strategy.

How do I register for an auction?

Each state in Australia has different rules about registering for an auction. Cohen Handler’s buyers agents in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, the Gold Coast and Adelaide have experience in the process and will guide you through the process. The Real Estate Institute of Australia and the equivalent organisation in each state are great resources to help you understand the process of an auction.

CAN I USE YOUR AUCTION BIDDING SERVICE WITHOUT ENGAGING A FULL BUYERS AGENT SERVICE?

Yes. Cohen Handler offers auction bidding as a standalone service if you have already found the right property but want professional representation on auction day. This allows you to stay in control while having an expert manage the bidding process.

HOW FAR IN ADVANCE DO I NEED TO ENGAGE COHEN HANDLER BEFORE AN AUCTION?

It’s best to engage us as early as possible, ideally at least several days before the auction. This gives enough time to assess the property, review key details and agree on a clear bidding plan before auction day.

DO YOU REVIEW THE CONTRACT AND DUE DILIGENCE BEFORE AUCTION DAY?

Yes. Auction purchases are unconditional, so it’s important to complete key checks beforehand. Cohen Handler can help coordinate the right professionals and review the details that may affect your decision before you bid.

WHAT HAPPENS IF THE PROPERTY PASSES IN AT AUCTION?

If the property passes in, the highest bidder is usually given the first opportunity to negotiate with the seller. Cohen Handler can manage these post-auction discussions to help you secure the property under the right terms.

WHY USE A BUYERS AGENT TO BID AT AUCTION INSTEAD OF BIDDING MYSELF?

Auction environments can be fast-moving and unpredictable. A buyers agent brings experience, structure and calm decision-making, helping you avoid costly mistakes and keeping the bidding focused on strategy rather than pressure.