Common Myths About Real Estate Auctions Debunked

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Arrow with word Fact breaks word Myth.

Real estate auctions are becoming more and more popular because they offer good deals on various properties in a consumer-friendly environment. Whether you’re selling real estate or land at auction, you’re bound to have some preconceived notions about the process.

Here are some of the most popular misconceptions about real estate auctions debunked!

Myth: If you sell a property at auction, you will have to accept a lower price.  

Fact: A professionally marketed and conducted auction places buyers on an equal playing field, and they compete to determine who will be the winner and own the property. This process lets the seller know when to trade the property and saves them the long-term carrying costs they would otherwise have with ownership, including taxes and maintenance.

Myth: Buying a farm or ranch at auction is risky because they are sold “as is.” 

Fact: Purchasing a property at auction typically carries less risk than making an offer on a private offering. At an auction, the contracts are prepared before the bidding begins. Therefore, the only question regarding the negotiation is the bid price. The condition of the property is not hidden from the potential buyers. A professional real estate auction company will utilize disclosure forms and encourage real estate auction sellers to disclose all known defects or issues with the property. 

Myth: You need to find time to attend the auction

Fact: One of the most common misconceptions about auctioning properties is that they all must be sold at a live auction at a particular location. Thanks to modern technology, this isn’t true anymore. Many property auctions happen online, so you can watch the bids go up from the comfort of your living room.

Myth: Selling by auction will be more stressful and expensive

Fact: Selling at auction means you’re more likely to sell your property quickly with a fixed, realistic time frame and swift completion. Selling at auction also encourages competitive bidding and tends to drive up the price of your property!

At Smith & Co Auction & Realty, we believe in the auction process. We have been serving Northwest Oklahoma and surrounding areas for over 30 years selling everything from farm machinery to 5200+ acre ranches. You can trust our professional staff to get the best offers on your property! 

Please browse our website to view our most current auctions and real estate listings, or call us at (580)254-3975 to learn more about our services!  

Top Tips for Buying Used Farm Equipment at Auction

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Farmer driving small used tractor he bought at auction for soil cultivation.

There are many great reasons to buy used farm equipment from an auction, but there are certain things you need to consider to have a great buying experience. Regardless of the type of equipment you are looking for, there are unspoken rules among auctioneers and bidders. Knowing these things will help you have a smooth bidding experience at the auction site.

Here are a few important things to remember when buying farm equipment at auction!

Assess Overall Appearance

If you plan on buying used machinery, it is crucial to check it for regular maintenance and assess its overall appearance. Look for dents and check if the paint is peeling off. These are good indications that the equipment has been stored outside for longer periods of time. See if the tires are worn by checking their tread and matching it against manufacturer standards.

Check the Engine’s Condition

If the farm equipment you plan to purchase has an engine, always check under the engine compartment. If possible, you can request to have the engine started to look for leaks and listen to find out if it is running smoothly. Also, ensure that it will comply with existing emission standard regulations for the type of engine the farm equipment has. You may also want to check the type of fuel it uses. Going for diesel-powered farm equipment and machinery is a practical choice because it is cheaper than gasoline machinery.

Check for Availability of Maintenance Documents

Before making a bid on a particular item of farm equipment, consider asking the seller or the auctioneer about the availability of maintenance logs and other pertinent documents or if there are any records of previous repairs. These documents can give you a better understanding of the quality of the equipment and the frequency of its repairs. The more you know about what you are buying, the better your chances of buying quality equipment that can last for a long time.

The most important thing you can do at an auction for used farm equipment is to ask questions before purchasing. Bidding at auctions can be a lot of fun, and if you do it right, you can certainly buy good-quality farm equipment at a much cheaper price.  

At Smith & Co Auction & Realty, we host professional in-person and online auctions. When purchasing used farm equipment at our auctions, you can ensure you’re getting your equipment at true market value. 

Call us today at (580)254-3975 to learn how you can purchase or sell used farm equipment in an upcoming auction!  

The World’s Most Expensive Items Sold at Auction

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Items sold at auctions verge on the artistic, the fabulous, the rare, and the iconic.

Some of the world’s most expensive items sold at auctions range from a balloon animal statue to an iconic dress worn by Marilyn Monroe.

Take a look at what some people were willing to pay for the following items.

“Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures)”

Painted in 1972 by artist David Hockney, the “Portrait of an Artist (Pool with Two Figures)” sold for $90.3 million at a 2018 auction, breaking the world record in price of a work by a living artist. This work takes the place of the previous world record holder, the orange “Balloon Dog” by artist Jeff Koons.

1962 Ferrari 250 GTO

Cars fetch a hefty price in general, but nothing like the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, sold at auction in 2018 for $48.4 million. This sale set the record for the highest price ever paid for a car at a public auction.

Marilyn Monroe’s gown

Have you ever had anyone sing “Happy Birthday” to you in the style of Marilyn Monroe?

Monroe’s rendition which she sang to President John F. Kennedy in 1962 is one of the most iconic moments of her star-studded career and the dress she wore that night also gained its own popularity.

Ripley’s Believe it or Not bought the dress for $4.8 million in 2016, making it the most expensive dress sold at an auction to date.

The Pink Star

Weighing in at 59.6 carats, The Pink Star sold within the first five minutes of bidding at a 2017 auction in Hong Kong. The diamond sold for $71 million, making it the most expensive jewel sold at an auction to date.

At Smith Co. Auction & Realty, we strive to bring you the latest and greatest in live auctions around the world. Stay up-to-date on our auction blog and when you’re itching to start bidding, be sure to check out our upcoming auctions here in Oklahoma!

­­­­­­­Benefits of Real Estate Auctions

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Trying to buy or sell a home or property on your own can become a headache and a hassle. What if few, if any, people are interested in it? How are do you find the right buyers?  

An auction, on the other hand, is about bringing like-minded people together for a purpose, and auctions help draw attention to things.

Smith & Company, for instance, has an intricate knowledge of the local market, helping individuals and families find their dream home. In addition, Smith & Company helps sellers set the best price for their land, so it’s a win-win for both buyers and sellers.

Why Auction?

One of the main benefits of a real estate auction is that it involves excellent marketing so people who are interested in buying or selling real estate in Oklahoma know the key details about what’s available, where and when, etc. This is especially important when selling specialty real estate because you will need to find the right buyers for your property.

Finding Buyers

A real estate auction is beneficial because it involves only qualified buyers. They’re the type of people you want vying for your property– they have the necessary means to afford what you’re selling. The highest bidder wins. Buyers ultimately have the final say in what price they’ll pay, purchasing real estate at its true market value.

For over 30 years Smith & Co. Auction Realty has been committed to providing

exceptional service to exceed your auction needs. Be sure to check our blog for news regarding upcoming auctions and visit our Auction page to start bidding!

Tips for Buying Firearms at Auction

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Rifle and Handgun with Ammunition on Brown Backdrop

Auctions are a great way to get a good deal on all different types of things. You can buy everything from multi-acre properties to farm equipment to used cars and beyond. One of the more popular items that auction goers are often seeking? Firearms—yup, you can buy those at auction too!

Whether you’re looking for a special antique gun or just something new to take to the range, you can find firearms of all kind at consignment, estate, or dedicated gun auctions. Of course, just like buying anything else at this type of event, there are a few things you’ll want to be aware of if you’re planning to buy a firearm at an auction.

Don’t get distracted during the bidding.

When you’re sitting at an auction surrounded by competing buyers, it’s easy to get caught up in the atmosphere or overwhelmed with the choices being presented to you. Take a look at the inventory list the auction house will publish beforehand and narrow down the firearms that interest you. Keep your eye on these alone, so you don’t get swept up and spend more than you planned for or go home with the wrong gun.

Be prepared to follow federal and state regulations.

Some people hold the misconception that auctions are where shady figures go to buy guns illegally. Obviously, this is not true, as all legitimate auctions are subject to normal state regulations and federal laws for selling firearms. Mostly, this just means you have to be of age—18 and older to purchase a long gun and 21 and older to purchase a handgun. If your state requires a license to purchase a gun, you will have to present yours to the auction company. Most auction houses will also require a background check.

Inspect the gun you’re interested in ahead of the auction.

Before auction day rolls around, conduct a detailed inspection of any guns you may or plan to bid on. It is best to do this in person, so you can see if the gun is a good fit for you and inspect its condition closely. Typically, auctions will have a preview period during which you can do this ahead of time. This will be helpful for you to research the value of the firearm and determine what your bidding limit will be.

At Smith & Co Auction & Realty, we are constantly holding auctions filled with high-value items that you have the opportunity to get for a steal. Along with our regular land, real estate, and industrial equipment auctions, we often have consignment or estate auctions that include a long list of firearms in excellent shape.

To stay up to date on our upcoming auctions, check in on our website or contact our team today!

4 Great Reasons to Buy Used Farm Equipment

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Tractor Plowing Scenic Farm Field in Woodward, OK

When it comes to bigger purchases, buying new versus used is always a top consideration. Farmers are a category of professionals who often face this dilemma.

The costs of farm machinery add up quickly and can break the bank before you know it, but some farmers are still hesitant to buy used and risk sacrificing quality or efficiency. Let’s take a look at a few reasons why buying used farming equipment is often the superior choice!

1) Cut startup costs.

For farmers who are just starting out, there are a lot of expenses you’ll need to cover to get your operation going. Used farm machinery is an excellent solution for saving on startup costs while still getting all of the basic equipment you need to get off the ground.

2) Keep spare machines on hand.

Every farmer knows there are a few key pieces of equipment that they wouldn’t be able to function without. If that vital machinery malfunctions, is damaged, or is offline for scheduled maintenance, you’re losing valuable time and profits until it’s fixed or you’ve secured a new one. Having used backup equipment on hand, at least for your major pieces, is a cost-effective solution for preventing that and providing extra security for your business.

3) It’s easy to determine if you’ll get your money’s worth.

The lifespan of farm machinery is easily gauged based on its current condition and the number of hours logged on it. This allows experienced farmers to accurately identify which used pieces are worth their cost. You’re not taking the same gamble you do when you buy other used items, such as a car.

4) Expand your operation.

Many farmers have come across the issue that because farm equipment is so expensive, some crops are not worth the production versus yield costs. Used machinery offers a more affordable option if you’re interested in more seasonal or niche harvests. This way, you can pursue other avenues of interest and profit without losing money on a brand-new machine you only use a few weeks or months out of the year.

If you’re a farmer in the Northwest Oklahoma or Kansas area, you can find premier used farm equipment, farmland, and more at one of Smith & Co Auction & Realty’s live or online auctions! When you buy your used farm machinery at auction, you get a say in the final price and will know you’re getting your equipment at true market value.

Head over to our website to be on the lookout for the equipment you need and stay up-to-date on our upcoming auctions!

Why You’ll Love to Live in Oklahoma

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Real Estate and Auction Company in Woodward, OK

Unless you grew up here, Oklahoma is not typically one of the first locations people think of when they consider a move. But as a company of employees that have lived and worked in Oklahoma for several decades, Smith & Co can tell you confidently that this wonderful state has a lot more to offer than you might think.

If you’re looking for a new job, new home, new scenery, or just a new adventure, here are a few reasons to consider Oklahoma for your next destination!

Low cost of living

The cost of housing, food, utilities, and transportation in Oklahoma are all lower than the national average by quite a bit. The median price for a house in Oklahoma is about half that of the national average, and renting costs are among the lowest third of states. The amount of local food production and manufacturing helps keep costs low as well.

Constant growth

Oklahoma has been growing financially, culturally, and in infrastructure consistently for many years. The local economy is strong—it was one of the first to bounce back from the recession—and small businesses and job seekers often find success here. We also have a thriving nightlife, rich and innovative art and culture scene, and progressive infrastructure development.

Fast commute

Residents of big cities such as New York or LA often name the traffic as one of the biggest disadvantages of living there. In Oklahoma, you can enjoy live in a mid-big city living without the hassle of impossible transportation. Our bigger cities, like Oklahoma City and Tulsa, have some of the shortest commute times of all major U.S cities. This is thanks to our well-developed infrastructure and public transit system.

Desirable climate

In Oklahoma, you can enjoy the best of all four seasons. With a gorgeous spring, summer, winter, and fall, there’s a good balance of weather and a lot you can do in terms of outdoor recreation. Our diverse landscape and natural terrain make for some fun adventures like hiking, ziplining, river rafting, and more.

If you’re interested in discovering just how incredible life in Oklahoma is firsthand, Smith & Co Auction & Realty can help you find the perfect house to call home! Our licensed real estate professionals will be happy to get you set up with a property in Woodward or surrounding areas that fits your needs. You may even find your next home at one of our upcoming auctions.

Contact us today for more information about our real estate and auction services!

4 Red Flags to Watch for that Signal an Auction is a Scam

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Auction Company in Woodward, OK

Auctions are great for people who want to sell their items, house, or land quickly, and buyers looking for a bargain. Unfortunately, there are others who will prey upon your interest in these benefits and run a scam auction, for both live and online events. These scams may include overpricing items or selling items the auctioneer doesn’t actually have available. They often get your attention with flashy ads or deals that seem too good to be true.

So, how you can tell if an auction you’re interested in or attending is legitimate or a sham? Here are a few of the biggest red flags to keep your eye out for!

1) No Accreditation

A legitimate auctioneer/auction company should have professional industry affiliations that show they’re serious. Look for memberships to the National Auctioneers Association (NAA), state auctioneers associations, and other relevant groups. You should be able to find this information on their website, or you can ask if you’re unsure.

2) No Experience

Before you head to an auction, take a few minutes to look up the company. They should have a record available of past auctions they’ve held and/or future auctions they have planned. Proven auction experience indicates a company is professional, that they have made valid sales in the past, and that they can put on a successful event.

3) No Permanent Address

If an auction is being held in a temporary location, such as a hotel or similar venue, there’s a good chance they’re running a traveling auction scam. Or, if they are held in a venue like this, they should have another permanent address and contact information listed readily. Remember—you don’t want to buy from someone you won’t be able to find again if there’s a problem

4) No Crowd

A proper auction company will have a vast network of resources and put in maximum effort to market their events, on behalf of themselves and their sellers. Keep in mind that many auction attendees are actually other dealers, so they’ll know which events are legitimate and which ones to stay away from. A sparse crowd could signal a dubious auction that’s baiting newcomers.

Smith & Co Auction & Realty has been providing professional auction services throughout Northwest Oklahoma and Kansas since 1987. With our decades of experience, as well as our NAA and Oklahoma State Auctioneers Association memberships, you can rest assured that you’ll only have the highest quality buying or selling experience with us.

View our upcoming auction schedule online or contact us today with any questions!

Preparing for Your Summer Open House

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Real Estate Agent in Northwest OK

Summer is a great time to be in the real estate market. The weather is beautiful and the days are long, which means plenty of interested buyers are willing to attend showings and open houses. Buyers are also extra motivated this time of year, since most want to close on a place before school starts or the colder weather sets in.

Like any other season, there are certain measures you should be taking in summer to make your house appealing to the most buyers. When it comes time to prep for your summer open house, here are a few tricks to help you put on a fun, welcoming, and profitable showing!

Keep your house cool and comfortable.

Prospective buyers aren’t going to want to spend time in a hot and muggy house, and when you’re selling you want them to spend as much time falling in love with your space as possible. Make sure your house offers a cool reprieve from the summer heat by turning on fans and AC a few hours before buyers arrive. A good temperature to aim for is about 70 degrees.

Put emphasis on outdoor living spaces.

At this time of year when the sun is shining and temperatures are high, buyers will be looking for houses that offer a comfortable place to spend time outside. Appeal to this desire by highlighting areas of your home where they can enjoy the outdoors. Focus on spaces like the backyard, patio, pool, and front porch, if you have any. Just be sure to provide some shade in these areas, so buyers don’t get scorched.

Offer refreshments.

A cool bottle of water and a plate of tasty cold fruit will go a long way when it comes to making a good impression on buyers who are coming in from being in the summer sun. Set up a table or directly offer simple refreshments like water, iced tea, juice, popsicles for kids, and other cold snacks for guests of your open house. It’ll be a nice welcoming touch to make your place feel like home, as well as encourage prospective buyers to linger for longer.

The best way to ensure your open house and summer home sale are a success is to work with an experienced local real estate agency. In Northwest Oklahoma and Kansas, Smith & Co Auction & Realty is the agency you need. We’ll help you sell your home for top dollar, so all you have to worry about is getting your new place ready for that end-of-summer party.

Contact us today to discuss the details of your home sale!

3 of The Biggest Mistakes Bidders Make at Auctions

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Upcoming Auctions near Woodward, OK

Going to an auction to battle for a property or an item you have your eye on can be intimidating. You might be scared to overbid and waste money, underbid and miss out, or even speak up and place your bid in the first place. But when you finally hear the auctioneer say “sold!” on your bid and walk away with what you came for, it’s a truly thrilling and satisfying experience.

To improve your chances of being the winning bidder, there are a few rookie mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Let’s go over what those top missteps are, so you can go into your next auction feeling fully prepared!

Mistake #1: Showing up unprepared.

If you want to succeed at an auction, you need to have a strategy, do prior research on the items you’re interested in, and establish your budget ahead of time. Without taking these steps to prepare, you’ll be more easily swayed by the auctioneer, other bidders, and your emotions. The most likely outcomes? You’ll either miss out on a great buy, overpay and waste your money, or end up legally obligated to buy something you can’t afford.

Mistake #2: Bidding too small.

Most bidders are afraid of wasting money with big, aggressive bids. But if you want to have a fighting chance at an auction, you have to be bold! Competitors won’t take small bids seriously or be scared off by small increments. In fact, upping your bids little by little will actually encourage others to keep bidding because they think you’re hesitating and can be scared off. Then, if you do win, you’ll probably end up paying a higher final price because you drove up the competition.

Mistake #3: Not bidding at all.

Taking a “wait and see” approach at an auction just puts more pressure on you in the long run. As others grow more confident in their bids, you’re more likely to hesitate and stay quiet than swoop in for the steal at the end. Bidding early and consistently shows that you’re confident and ready to spend, which helps fend off other challengers.

Are you ready to test your bidding skills? Check out one of the upcoming auctions from Smith & Co Auction & Realty! We’ve got some incredible properties, farm equipment, and household items going up for auction that could be the perfect reward for all of your preparation.

View all of the details of our upcoming auctions on our website today!