Your neighbor seems to drive the best luxury cars, fitted with all the auto parts and accessories that make the car a thing of envy. Ever wonder how he or she manages to afford such a remarkable luxury car? The answer might be simpler than you think ? he/she might have bought the car real cheap at a government car auction.

Various federal, state, and local government and law enforcement agencies regularly seize the possessions, including autos, of bad people and auction them off. Also, when these agencies buy new service vehicles, they sell of the old ones ? most of the time at a fraction of the original price. These sell-offs are generally described as government car auctions.

Sometimes banks and lending institutions also sell off the cars they repossessed from non paying customers through these auctions. And if there are certain damaged cars, then you can find auto parts and accessories from these cars also being sold off cheaply at the auctions.

Such auctions are very much real and are happening regularly in different states, open to anyone to attend and participate. And if you know your cars you can strike some of the best possible deals here.

Such seized-property or surplus auctions are held at various locations across the country at different times ? though most of the auctions in a single state would tend to be at the same location and would be at regular intervals. Listings and details of such auctions are normally easily available through newspapers.

It is obvious that the agencies and institutions that put up the cars for auction would be looking to get back as much money as possible for the cars, but if wise bidding is done, bargains are very much possible. Doing some homework before going for the auction will help you gain a better deal.

Always know what vehicle you want, its market value and its history ? all of these can be found online. Also try and get the Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) and mileage information from the auction administrators. Since most government auctions provide a preview period before the actual auction, it is a good idea to get the vehicles inspected by a mechanic and accordingly decide which cars you wish to bid on. Always make sure to check out the auto parts and accessories included with the car.

Government car auctions can provide you with the second car you want at the price that is affordable to you. All that is needed from your end is awareness about the auction and that little bit of homework.