11/04/2026
I witnessed something fascinating - and a little shocking toady,
at an auction in Hawthorne.
Two bidders were competing.
The highest bid sat at $1.5M.
The real estate agent made a quick phone call, likely to the seller for instructions - then walked straight back to the top bidder.
Without any new bid from the other side, the highest bidder suddenly increased their own offer by $25K to $1.525M.
And just like that, the agent announced: “We’re on the market and selling!”
Translation? The bidder effectively bid against themselves - persuaded by the selling agent who, of course, is paid to get the highest possible price for the seller.
Here’s the twist…
The bidder who fell for this wasn’t an emotional first‑home buyer.
They were a Buyers Agent.
I overheard them mention they had to rush off to the next auction because they were representing multiple clients that day.
It made me wonder: How much focus and negotiation power do buyers lose when their “representative” is spread that thin?
Auctions move fast, and subtle pressure from selling agents can cost buyers tens of thousands.
Especially when their Buyers Agent isn’t 100% in their corner.
The lesson? Work with someone who represents only you - who takes the time to prepare, strategise, and protect your position under pressure.
Because when the gavel falls, that’s when experience, focus, and integrity truly count.
👇 Have you ever seen a bidder win the property but lose financially in the process?