Foreclosure auction questions
Plain answers about how the South Florida clerk auctions work and how to read this board.
What is a foreclosure auction in Florida?
After a judge enters a final judgment of foreclosure, the county clerk sells the property at a public auction. In Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach these sales are held online through each clerk's auction website, and the highest bidder wins.
Why are bank buybacks left out?
When nobody outbids the lender, the plaintiff bank or servicer takes the property back. Those aren't real sales to investors, so this board drops them and only lists third-party buyers.
What does 'Title recorded' mean?
The clerk has recorded the certificate of title and the court docket shows no bankruptcy, objection or motion to vacate. It is a sign the sale is done, not a guarantee. Right now we check Miami-Dade's larger sales.
What does 'Docket activity' mean?
Someone filed an objection, a bankruptcy or a motion to vacate after the sale. The sale could be set aside, so treat it as unsettled.
Is the winning bid what the buyer paid for the house?
It's the auction price. Buyers can still owe other liens, back taxes, HOA balances and closing costs, so the winning bid is not the full cost.
What is 'County value'?
The market value the county property appraiser puts on the property. Bid/val compares the winning bid to that figure. Appraiser values often lag the market.
How often is the board updated?
Results are refreshed every week, and the free Monday email recaps the prior week's third-party sales and buyers.
Is this legal or investment advice?
No. It's pulled from public county records, which can be late or wrong. Check with the clerk and order a title search before you bid or buy.
See results: Miami-Dade · Broward · Palm Beach · Top buyers
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