Read before bidding

Auction Rules & Terms

Everything that governs a Bid Genius auction. All times shown in ET (Baltimore local).

01

AS-IS — No Warranty

Most vehicles on Bid Genius run, drive, and are mechanically sound based on seller disclosures and our basic lot check (engine starts, moves forward/reverse, no major fluid leaks). However, all vehicles are sold AS-IS with no expressed or implied warranty. Buyer is strongly encouraged to inspect the vehicle in person before bidding (available by appointment at our Baltimore lot). We do not certify vehicles. No refunds or returns.

02

Buyer's premium

A flat $299 buyer's premium is added to every winning bid. Example: bid $5,000 → total due $5,299. The premium is charged automatically to your card on file at auction close.

03

Deposit policy

A $200 refundable deposit unlocks bidding. Refunded automatically within 2 hours if you lose the auction, or applied to your final balance if you win. Forfeited only if you win and fail to pay within 24 hours.

04

Anti-sniping (2-minute rule)

Any bid placed in the final 2 minutes of an auction extends the auction by 2 minutes. This rule repeats indefinitely until no bid is placed in the final 2 minutes. Enforced server-side — sniping is not possible.

05

Payment deadline

Remaining balance is due within 24 hours of auction end. Automated reminders go out at 12h, 6h, and 1h before the deadline. Your card on file is charged automatically when the deadline hits, if you haven't paid manually.

06

Pickup window

Once full payment is received, buyer schedules pickup online within 3 business days. Pickup is at our disclosed Baltimore lot. Bring valid ID and proof of payment.

07

Default procedure

If winner fails to pay within 24h: they forfeit the $200 deposit and $299 buyer's premium. The system automatically offers the car to the next-highest bidder within 1 hour, with 24h to accept. If declined, the car is relisted in the next drop.

08

Taxes & registration

Buyer is responsible for all local taxes, title transfer fees, and registration costs when registering the vehicle. Maryland buyers pay 6% excise tax at the MVA.

09

Tie bid

In the event of identical bid amounts, the earliest bid wins.