How you can bid in online auctions

Real estate professionals are searching for ways to counteract the impact of the nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic through the use of technology and online platforms. Once only used by those who were on holiday, at work, or just plain busy, GAVL has become an essential tool to combat the social distancing measures currently in place. 

GAVL provides real estate agents and vendors with the ability to host online auctions and private treaty sales, and buyers a safe medium to bid. 

If you’re new to buying through online auctions, we’ve put together top tips to help you get started with GAVL.

1. Before getting started, you will need to create a GAVL account.  

Follow the simple steps below:

• Enter your details – name, email address, phone number and create a password.
• The next step is to verify your account by proving your identity. Take a picture of your photo ID (passport or drivers licence).
  Note: you will need to have your physical ID on you, the platform will not accept a picture saved to your device. 
• Double check all the information pulled from your ID is correct, and take a selfie.
• Your account will be under review.
• You will get a notification when you have been approved and you can continue your property search.

2. Once you have created your account you can start searching through the listings. The listings showcase all essential property information, along with images, videos and agent information as they would appear on other property advertising platforms. Use the filter at the top of the page to refine your search by location, price, land size and more. 

‘Follow’ the properties you are interested in, adding them to your shortlist so you can go back and view them later or keep them handy for when the auction is live. When you have shown interest, wait to receive approval from the listing agent to bid. The app will notify you once the auction is live then begin to watch. 

3. When the auction is streaming, you will have options on screen to view the property images or bid in real time. The app will keep you updated throughout the auction with notifications showing where the bids are at and if you are in the lead. 

4. GAVL also provides you with the ability to sign the sale contract and documents digitally and a secure medium to transfer the deposit amount directly to the agent. 

The GAVL app is a free download for Android or Apple devices. Watch the full app demo here and find out about all the key features that will aid you throughout your property journey.