Everything you need to know about bidding, selling, and working with Bates Auction & Realty.
You can register to bid online through our auction listing page. Simply click “Register to Bid” on any auction, create a free account, and submit your registration. You may be required to provide a valid ID and a credit card on file depending on the auction.
No, registration as a bidder is completely free. There is no cost to create an account or browse upcoming auctions. You only pay when you win an item.
Yes. All of our auctions are available for online bidding, either live (real-time) or timed, depending on the auction format. You can participate from anywhere with an internet connection. We recommend registering at least 24 hours before an auction begins.
A buyer’s premium is a percentage added to the final bid price to cover auction costs. The buyer’s premium for each auction is disclosed in the auction terms listed on that auction’s detail page. Always review the terms before bidding.
If you are the winning bidder, you will receive an invoice via email immediately after the auction closes. You are legally obligated to complete the purchase per the auction’s terms and conditions. Payment instructions and pickup/closing details will be included in your invoice.
We strongly encourage all bidders to inspect items prior to bidding. Inspection dates and times are listed on each auction’s detail page. All items are sold “as-is, where-is”, it is the bidder’s responsibility to be satisfied with the condition of items before placing a bid.
Getting started is simple, just contact us through our contact page or call our office. We’ll schedule a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your property, equipment, or estate and put together a customized auction plan.
Our seller fees vary depending on the type and scale of the auction. In many cases, seller costs are offset or covered entirely by the buyer’s premium. We will walk you through all fees and terms clearly during your initial consultation, no surprises.
Yes, we handle all marketing from start to finish. Our full-service marketing includes:
Timeline varies by auction type and complexity. A timed online equipment auction can often be listed within 1–2 weeks. Land and real estate auctions typically require 3–6 weeks for proper marketing and preparation. We will provide a clear timeline during your consultation.
We specialize in three primary categories:
A Live Auction is conducted in real time by a licensed auctioneer. Bidders can participate on-site or online simultaneously. The auctioneer calls bids and the highest bidder wins when the auctioneer closes the lot. Live auctions are high-energy and move quickly.
A Hybrid Auction combines live on-site bidding with simultaneous online participation. Bidders at the auction location compete directly alongside online bidders in real time. This format maximizes competition and buyer reach for the seller.
A Timed Online Auction runs over a set period (typically several days to a week). Bidders can place bids at any time during the bidding window. Most timed auctions feature an auto-extend feature, if a bid is placed in the final minutes, the clock extends slightly to allow other bidders to respond.
It depends on your goals, timeline, and the type of asset. Live and Hybrid auctions tend to generate more competitive energy for high-value items. Timed Online auctions are excellent for reaching a broad audience over a longer window. We’ll recommend the best format during your free consultation.
Accepted payment methods vary by auction and are listed in each auction’s terms. Commonly accepted methods include cash, check, wire transfer, and credit card (with a processing fee). Payment details are always disclosed before bidding begins.
Payment deadlines are specified in each auction’s terms and conditions. Typically, payment is due within 24–72 hours of auction close for equipment and personal property. Real estate closings follow a separate timeline as outlined in the purchase agreement.
For equipment and personal property auctions, sellers typically receive settlement within 7–10 business days after the auction closes and all buyer payments have been received. Real estate closings follow standard Indiana real estate closing procedures.
Yes, real estate and land auctions are one of our specialties. We handle farmland, residential properties, commercial buildings, and timber or recreational tracts throughout Northern Indiana.
An auction creates a defined sale date and competitive bidding environment that often achieves or exceeds appraised value. Unlike a traditional listing that may sit on the market for months, an auction creates urgency and brings qualified, motivated buyers to a single event.
Yes. The winning bidder on a real estate auction is required to sign a purchase agreement and pay an earnest money deposit immediately following the auction. All terms, including any contingencies or reserves, are disclosed in the auction terms prior to bidding.
Bates Auction & Realty is based in Bourbon, Indiana and primarily serves Northern Indiana. We are licensed in Indiana (AU11700001) and conduct all of our auctions within the state.
The best way to stay updated is to check our Auctions page regularly. You can also contact us to be added to our email list and receive notifications about new auctions that match your interests.
Just reach out! You can call us at 574-342-2955, email info@batesauctionandrealty.com, or use the contact form on our Contact page. We’re happy to help and typically respond within one business day.