Getting to know the process

Firstly, you must decide what vehicle you want to buy. To do this you must take a look at our auction lists for the various venues to see if the vehicle you want is available, and to ascertain the date, time and location of the auction. It is also important to read and understand the terms and conditions under which the sale will be conducted. Said terms and conditions will be available at the auction houses and on their respective websites.

Your Budget

It is important that the offered vehicle is within your budget. Your budget should make provision for:

  • the retail price;
  • the document fee applicable to that specific auction house;
  • VAT;
  • buyer's commission.

Also remember that, at all auctions, the sale is concluded at the fall of the hammer.

Choosing a Vehicle

Once you have found a vehicle that suits your needs, you should try to attend an onsite inspection on the viewing date. Although professional staff will be on hand to help you through this exercise, it is best to take along someone you know and trust who is familiar with the inner workings of a vehicle to help you assess the cost of getting the vehicle into a roadworthy condition. Please be advised that staff are at hand to assist you if you want to start the vehicles for assessment, but no test drives are allowed.

Remember, all these vehicles are sold 'voetstoots' and without an obligation to repair, so you must be well-informed to avoid any unforeseen repair bills. Any reputable auctioneer will, however, in the normal course of business highlight any known defects before any items are auctioned. With MFC and the auctioneers with whom we partner, this is standard practice and we insist on full disclosure of any known major defects.

Attending Auctions to get to know the process

The auction process is very simple and easy, and it would therefore be worth your while to familiarise yourself with it by attending a few auctions before you buy anything.

Here are a few pointers:

  • Observe the auction process;
  • Find out how to register;
  • Find out how to bid;
  • Be sure when to bid and, importantly, when to stop;
  • Familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions and the requirements of the auction process.

Once you have fully acquainted yourself with the 'how' part, you will be in a good position to apply all your knowledge to buy a vehicle. There is always professional staff present to help you along the way.

At the Auction

Once you have decided to attend the auction, please ensure that you have either pre-approved finance or money available to pay for your successful bid. After the auction most auction houses allow you 3 (three) working days to pay for and collect the purchase. It is best to have all matters in hand prior to the auction rather than trying to complete the financial side of things after you have purchased the vehicle. All auction houses have finance and insurance staff that can make this onsite process a relatively easy and painless experience. Should you wish to make use of the onsite finance and insurance consultant, please remember to take your identity document and FICA-required documentation with you.

Important things to remember

  • By law, all vehicles purchased have to be registered in the buyer's name within 21 (twenty one) days of purchase. After the auction you must obtain roadworthy clearance for the vehicle at an approved test station to register the vehicle in your name.
  • You have to register as a buyer to purchase a vehicle at an auction. These details form part of the terms and conditions of the various auction houses, as displayed on their websites.
  • All auction facilities require a registration deposit, which is refunded if you don't buy anything.
  • If you are unsure whether you should bid on a vehicle, always err on the side of caution by not taking part in the bid for the vehicle
  • Familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions and the requirements of the auction process.