Frequently Asked

Each auction is hosted on an online bidding platform. Open the auction you intend to bid in and follow the bidding link to register. Some auctions require identification or a card on file. We recommend registering before bidding opens.

No. Registration and access to the catalog are free. You pay only if you win a lot.

Yes, in our timed online and hybrid auctions, which accept bids from any location. Live auctions are bid in person. The format is stated on every auction.

A percentage added to the winning bid to cover the cost of conducting the auction. The rate is set per auction and stated in its terms before bidding opens.

You will receive an invoice when the auction closes, with payment and collection instructions. A winning bid is a binding agreement to purchase under the terms of that auction.

Yes, where an auction includes a preview. Preview dates and location are listed on the auction. All items sell as is, where is, and inspection is the most reliable way to assess condition.

A live auction is conducted in person by the auctioneer, who calls the bids. The highest bid when a lot closes wins it. The auction is held on a single day at a single location.

A hybrid auction is a live auction with online bidding running at the same time. Bidders in attendance and bidders online compete against one another in real time.

A timed online auction accepts bids over a set period, usually several days. Lots then close in sequence. A bid placed in the closing minutes of a lot extends that lot’s clock, giving other bidders an opportunity to respond.

It depends on what is being sold, where it is located, and how quickly you want it sold. Live and hybrid auctions concentrate bidding into a single day. Timed online auctions reach a wider audience over a longer period. We will recommend a format once we have seen what you have.

Call us or send a message through the contact page. We will discuss what you have and how we would handle it. There is no cost and no obligation.

Seller fees depend on the type and size of the auction, and are often offset by the buyer’s premium. Every fee is set out in full before anything is agreed.

Yes. All advertising is produced in house: targeted online advertising, collector magazine advertising, and mailers, directed at buyers for this type of property.

It depends on the auction. A timed online equipment auction can be listed in a short time. Land and larger estates require longer to catalog and market properly. We will set out a timeline before we begin.

No. Individual items can be consigned into one of our scheduled auctions. Auctions are grouped by category, so a single lot still reaches the relevant buyers.

Accepted methods are set per auction and stated in its terms. If you need to confirm before bidding, contact us.

Payment deadlines are set in each auction’s terms. Real estate follows the dates in the purchase agreement.

A removal window is set for each auction and stated in its terms. Buyers are responsible for loading and transport. If you need help arranging it, contact us before the auction closes.

After the auction closes and buyer payments have cleared. We provide a settlement timeline before your auction runs.

Bourbon, Indiana. We are licensed in Indiana (AU11700001) and hold real estate broker licenses.

Join the auction alerts list, or check the auctions page. We send upcoming auctions, sale bills and collectors items.

Call 800-248-2955, email info@batesauctionandrealty.com, or use the contact form. We will get back to you.