Government Liquidation

Be wary of offers to sell you “inside” information about Federal Government sales.

Some Federal agencies maintain mailing lists with na mes of people inter ested in being notified about upcoming sales. In these cases, agencies may charge a subscription fee to maintain the list and cover mailing costs. Non - governmental organizations that sell information about these sales often don’t tell consumers that they can r eceive sales information just by contacting the agency ’s local or regional
office. You may see advertisements offering to sell you access to little - known sources of Federal G overnment property. It’s likely that
they are selling the na mes and addr esses of the Federal Government agencies listed in this publication. Be aware that the information sold by non - governmental entities may not be accurate or up - to - date.

l Know where to f ind current Federal Government sales information. To find information about specific upcoming sales, check the classified
or business sections of national or local newspapers. Some sales programs may even advertise on local radio and television. Notices may also
be also posted at post offices, town halls, and other local and Federal G overnment buildings. 

Marshals Service sales program, look under the Department of Justice in the “U.S. Government” listings in the phone directories of major cities in your state. If you have difficulty locating the local office of a particular sales progra m, call the Federal Citizen Information C enter ’s National Contact Center (NCC) for assistance. This service, provided by GSA, can tell you the location of the sales office closest to you.

Consumer Tips

Do your homework before going to a Federal Government sale or auction.

Before attending, research the sale by contacting the sponsoring agency. Find out how and when the sale or auction will be held, what bidding procedure will be used, and what special restrictions or unusual conditions apply. It’s important to ask what forms of payment are
accepted. Most sales require a guaranteed method of payment such as money order, certified check, or cash. Credit cards are sometimes
accepted. Also, look for information prior to the sale on the buyer’s responsibility for property removal, inspection times prior to the sale,
and zoning rules if purchasing land in an urban area. In most cases, the “Invitation For Bid” will answer these types of questions. It is an
informational piece released by the sponsoring Federal agency that contains a description of the property being offered for sale with the sale
terms and conditions. It’s wise for potential buyers to attend several sales to get a feel for the auction process.With just a little research,
you can get the information that you need to make a successful purchase.

Article Courtesy: http://www.pueblo.gsa.gov/cic_text/fed_prog/fedsales/finalfsg.pdf
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