auction- what happened???

Question

New to the business of investing and went to my first auction to learn about how things run and see what happens. Not to bid, just to learn.   I showed up at the county court house for an auction that was listed on auction.com yesterday but there wasn't a single person there except for someone that came up with a briefcase and whispered something to the clerk and then walked away.  Not sure what happened or what to make of this. There was no formal auction or buying or bidding as far as I could tell.  Nothing happened.   Is this how auctions are usually run?  Sorry, probably really dumb question but was really confused.   Any thoughts??

Account Closed · Answer

@Monte Blunk   So you learned a lot.  Next time stand by the clerk.  That way you can hear the auction.  I would not be surprised at all if that was an auction.

Dan Rosenberger · Answer

Call the clerk and ask the results of that auction.  I have been to foreclosure auctions where I was the only person present, other than those running the sale. As for the guy with the briefcase, the attorney?  You can check the photos on the foreclosure attorneys website.

Monte Blunk · Answer

@Michael Biggs -  good point.  lesson learned.  One of many.

Monte Blunk · Answer

@Chris Carson -  The auction.com website had a listing that stated the auction was being held at the courthouse with an address so I don't think it was online.   But maybe I am wrong.

I tried to strike up conversation with the man who came up with a briefcase as he was walking away but it became very clear quickly he was not interested in talking about the auction.  By the time I turned around the clerk had left.  It all seem very strange.  Maybe it was cancelled.  Again, this is my first time and I was just going to learn more on the process and so I thought I would gain some insight from others as to what may of happened and how to learn more about how auctions are run and the process.  Any insight on where you get your information on local auctions and how they are run would be helpful.

Chris Carson · Answer

Why don't you just ask the clerk? They are usually pretty helpful. Could also be that your local auctions are done online...