Question 1

What are the usual auction terms?

Accepted Answer

A non-refundable 10–15% down payment is collected the day of the sale, with the balance due on or before the closing date — approximately 14 days after plat approval, if needed. The cost of the owner's title insurance and closing agents' fees are divided equally between buyer and seller.

Question 2

Is the property sold subject to confirmation?

Accepted Answer

Property is sold subject to the owner's confirmation and subject to easements, restrictions, reservations, or highways of record, if any. Announcements made the day of sale take precedence over any printed materials.

Question 3

Do I need to register to bid?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Bring a valid ID. We register bidders on-site before the sale starts. There is no fee to register.

Question 4

Can I bid by phone or online?

Accepted Answer

Most of our auctions are live on-site. For select sales we offer phone bidding — call us at 605-361-1699 in advance if you would like that arranged.

Question 5

How do I get a valuation on my property?

Accepted Answer

Request a no-obligation valuation from our Sell page or call 605-361-1699. Marshall is a certified appraiser; we will give you a straight answer on what your property is worth today.

Question 6

Should I auction my property or list it traditionally?

Accepted Answer

Both methods work. Auction is best for unique properties and time-certain sales. Traditional listings are often best for highly comparable homes. We do both and will recommend what is right for your property.

Question 7

Do you represent buyers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We help buyers find land, acreages, and homes throughout the Sioux Falls region. Tell us what you are looking for and we will alert you when something fits.

Question 8

What do I need to bring on auction day?

Accepted Answer

A valid ID and proof of funds or a pre-approval letter. The day-of-sale deposit is typically 10–15% of the purchase price.

Question 9

What area do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Sioux Falls, Lincoln, Minnehaha, and surrounding South Dakota counties. We regularly work properties from Corsica to Chancellor and across the Sioux Empire.

Question 10

How long has Merle Miller Real Estate been in business?

Accepted Answer

Merle Miller Real Estate & Auction Company has been serving South Dakota since 2006, with the Miller family active in regional real estate and auctions for decades before that.

Frequently asked questions

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