Buying a house at a real estate auction can be tricky at best, even for the experts. It's all too easy for the unwary buyer to get caught up in the thrill of bidding and wind up owning a costly mistake.

Your best bet is to ask a knowledgeable real estate agent to assist you in arriving at an appropriate purchase amount. A savvy bidder needs to know comparable home prices; we can provide you with a range of prices for similar properties.

Review the bidder's package with the agent's help. The package should include a copy of the title search, tax information, a current appraisal, special fees and the auction rules.

Make sure you've arranged financing before the auction.

Most of all, remember to buy sensibly; don't let the excitement of the auction cause you to pay more than the home is worth. After all, not every home sold at auction is a bargain.