Auction Questions


What is an auction?

Auctions are not like auctions on Ebay. They're authentic auction experiences that often take place in real time as well as online. Just like you have probably seen on television, people arrive at the auction's location, browse the lots or property, and place their bids. The difference is that the auction action takes place online as well as on location.

Some auctions are online-only. These auctions are not taking place live, and all bids are accepted online.

Some auctions are live only. These auctions do not accept any online bidding, but prospective bidders can view details about the auction online such as the auction location, catalog, and details surrounding the auction.


How do online auctions work?

Online auctions work just like live auctions only the bidding is done from your computer. You simply register and place bids on items your wish to purchase. Only registered bidders can participate in our online auctions. 


How do I register for an auction?

Creating your account will provide bidding access to all auctions within the MarkNet Alliance network. Some auction companies may require additional registration, and bidding will not be enabled for that auction until this process is completed.


Where can I find the terms and conditions for an auction?

Terms and Conditions are located both on the main auction event page and on individual lot pages.


How does an auction end?

Rowell Auctions employs several methods to close auctions, ensuring a fair and competitive bidding process. Here’s how it works:

  1. Standard Closing Time: Each auction has a designated closing time, but specific details on closing can vary. Some auctions close precisely at this time, while others may use additional features that extend the auction based on bidding activity.
  2. Staggered Closings: When multiple items are up for auction, staggered closing times may be used. In this approach, items close one after another, typically with a brief interval between each. For example, if the first item closes at 1:00 PM, the next may close at 1:10 PM, and so on. This allows bidders to focus on each item as it closes.
  3. Auto-Extend Feature: To prevent last-second bidding rushes, we utilize an auto-extend feature. When a bid is placed on an item shortly before its closing time, the auto-extend feature will keep the bidding open on that item for a few additional minutes. This process repeats until there are no further bids within the allotted time, ensuring all bidders have a fair chance to respond.

For full details on the closing and extension rules, please review the auctions Terms and Conditions or contact us with any questions.


How do I know if I've won an auction?

Winning bidders receive confirmation via email, which provides details and next steps based on the type of auction:

Real Estate Auctions

  • For auctions without a reserve, a contract will be sent promptly via email to the highest bidder.
  • For auctions subject to confirmation, the contract may take a few days as final approvals are completed. Please refer to the Terms and Conditions specific to the property for detailed information.

Personal Property Auctions

  • If you are the winning bidder, you’ll receive an invoice via email once the auction ends. This invoice includes complete instructions for making payment and finalizing the purchase.

For further details, please check the auction Terms and Conditions or contact us with any questions.


How do I pay for my items?

If you win an auction, please follow the payment process outlined below. Specific terms may vary, so always refer to the auction’s Terms and Conditions for full details.

Real Estate Auctions

  • Once the auction concludes, contract documents will be sent via email to the winning bidder.
  • You must sign and return the contract, along with the required earnest money deposit, by email or fax to the onsite broker within the specified timeframe. Failure to submit these documents within the deadline may result in default.

Personal Property Auctions

  • Winning bidders will receive an invoice via email with full details of their purchase.
  • Payment must be made using a cashier’s check or money order and sent via overnight delivery to:
    • Rowell Auctions, Inc.
    • Attention: Online Payment Department
    • 1303 Fourth Street SW
    • Moultrie, GA 31768
  • Payment must be received within four (4) days of the auction’s close. Failure to pay promptly may result in a permanent ban from future auctions.

How can I contact an auction company?

The "Ask the Auctioneer" form on the auction event page and on each lot page allows you to send a message to the hosting auctioneer. Questions that other users have asked can also be viewed on these pages. The auction company's contact details (address, phone number) are also available on the main auction page.


How can I search for a specific item?

Use the search bar at the top of the page to find a specific item in all auctions. You can narrow your search by category or view all lots that match your keyword in all categories. You can also save a search to revisit it later in your account under "Saved Search."


How can I make sure I am seeing the most current bidding information on the screen?

During the bidding process you will need to refresh or reload your page frequently to ensure you are viewing the most current bidding screen.


How do I find out more about a posted item?

Each auction has a contact person. If you have any questions about an item, please contact that person.


Why is there Tax on some sales? 

Personal Property: The tax laws governing auctions are complicated. Rowell Auctions, Inc. makes every effort to determine beforehand if sales taxes must be collected. There are several situations in which you do not have to pay sales tax. If you provide a sales tax number from the state where the auction is held and sign the appropriate sales tax exceptions form, or if you are purchasing an item for use in another state you may not have to pay sales tax. Sales tax exemption forms must be filed with Rowell Auctions, Inc prior to bidding.


Why do some auctions require a deposit prior to bidding?

Rowell Auctions in coordination with our Sellers/Owners determine prior to the opening of bidding if deposits will be required. If an deposit is required prior to bidding the deposit amount will be advertised. If you are not the successful bidder, deposits will be refunded following the auction.


How do I print an auction's documentation?

On the auction event page and lot pages, there are links to download PDF files of the auction's brochure and packet.


How can I find an auction in my state?

All search results can be filtered by state or multiple states. These filters can be found in the left hand side bar on all search results pages. To view all auctions and then filter by state, simply select "Auctions by State" from the "Browse By" drop down on every page, and then filter by your state(s) on the left.