FAQs

What is EMD (Earnest Money Deposit)?

EMD is the refundable deposit that bidders must pay to participate in the auction. It is usually 10% of the reserve price and is adjusted against the final purchase price if you win the bid. If you don’t win, the EMD is refunded.

What is the reserve price?

The reserve price is the minimum price set by the bank for the auction property. Bidding starts at or above this price. The property cannot be sold below this amount.

Do auction properties include electricity, water, MCD, and other dues in the price?

No. Auction properties are sold on an “as-is-where-is” basis. This means the buyer is responsible for clearing any pending charges such as electricity bills, water charges, municipal/property taxes (MCD), maintenance dues, or other statutory liabilities. We strongly recommend conducting due diligence with the concerned bank/institution before bidding.

What is a bank auction property?

A bank auction property is a property repossessed by a bank due to loan default. The bank sells it through an auction to recover the outstanding dues from the borrower.

What is a DRT auction?

A DRT (Debt Recovery Tribunal) auction is a sale of assets ordered by the tribunal for loan recovery. Banks or financial institutions approach DRT when dues are large or complex, and the tribunal supervises the auction process.

What is physical possession and what is symbolic possession?

Physical Possession: You get immediate access to the property after the auction sale is confirmed and payment is made. You can take control of the property right away.

Symbolic Possession: You receive legal ownership through the Sale Certificate, but actual physical possession may take time, depending on the bank, tribunal, or current occupants.

Who can participate in bank and DRT auctions?

Any Indian citizen, NRIs, or companies can participate by registering for the auction, submitting KYC documents, and depositing the required Earnest Money Deposit (EMD).

What is the process of buying a property in bank/DRT auction?

The general process is:

  1. Identify the property from auction notices or platforms like Auction Gecko.
  2. Check property details, documents, and conduct due diligence.
  3. Register for the auction and pay the Earnest Money Deposit (EMD).
  4. Participate in the e-auction and place bids online.
  5. If you win, deposit the balance payment within the given timeline.
  6. Receive a Sale Certificate from the bank/DRT and get ownership transferred.

How much discount can I expect on auction properties?

Auction properties are usually 10%–50% cheaper than market prices. The actual discount depends on the property’s location, demand, and legal clearances.

Can I get a home loan for buying auction properties?

Yes, many banks and financial institutions provide loans for auction properties. However, the loan is usually available only if the property has a clear title and no major disputes.

What happens if I win the auction?

If you win, your Earnest Money Deposit (EMD), typically 10% of the bid amount, is adjusted against the final price.

  • Within 24 hours of confirmation, you are required to pay approximately 25% of the total bid amount (the remaining ~15% after adjusting the EMD, since the bid may increase during the auction).
  • The remaining 75% of the payment is usually due within 15 days, though this timeline can sometimes be extended at the discretion of the authorized officer of the bank.

Once full payment is made, the bank or tribunal issues a Sale Certificate, which is used to complete the ownership transfer.

What happens if I don’t win the auction?

If you don’t win, your EMD is refunded to your account (usually within a week) without any deductions.

Is it safe to buy bank auction properties?

Yes, it is generally safe since banks sell only after following legal processes. However, due diligence is important to check for:

  • Encumbrances or dues (electricity, water, society charges, property tax).
  • Possession status (vacant or occupied).
  • Pending litigations.

Can the borrower challenge the auction after I purchase?

Yes, in rare cases, the borrower may file a case in court. But if the sale is conducted as per SARFAESI/DRT rules, your rights as a buyer are legally protected.

Do I get possession immediately after buying?

There are two types of possession in bank and DRT auctions:

  1. Physical Possession: You receive the property immediately after the sale is confirmed and payment is made.
  2. Symbolic Possession: You receive legal ownership through the Sale Certificate, but physical possession may take time, depending on the bank, tribunal, or occupant situation.

Always check the auction notice or consult the authorized officer to know which type applies before bidding.

What documents do I receive after purchase?

The bank or DRT issues a Sale Certificate after full payment. This is then registered with the Sub-Registrar’s office to complete the ownership transfer.

Still have questions about bank auctions?

If you have more questions or need guidance on bank or DRT auctions, our team is here to help.
Contact us at info@auctiongecko.com or support@auctiongecko.com, or fill out our contact form and we’ll respond promptly.