I found this on http://countrywide-foreclosures.blogspot.com/
Update: (And thanks Bubble Sitter for posting this)
“US Home Auctions allow SHILL BIDDING. The quote below is right out if their brochure (and this is the second time I have posted this quote on your web site):”
“On page 122 paragraph 3, I quote verbatim: ‘Except where prohibited by law, the Auctioneer may open bidding on any property by placing a bid on behalf of the Seller and may further bid on behalf of the Seller, up to the amount of the reserve price, by placing successive or consecutive bids for a Property, or by placing bids in response to other bidders.’”
“Your advice to be very careful is right on the mark. US Home Auctions wants to get the bidding going and get people invested in time and effort, then PUMP THEM UP!”

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Andrew Monaghan
The Monaghan Group
Keller Williams Professional Partners.
602-308-4660 Ext 203
Andrew@TheMonaghanGroup.Com
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Hi Andrew:
I am an auctioneer here in California. Most auctions that are held, have very savvy attendees, who will not bid up a price on a home that they think is not worth it. Most buyers do their home work, before an auction. Also, many attend with their real estate agents. Buyers attend auctions to get a deal. As far as shill's go you have to qualify to purchase a home by speaking to a lender and placing $$$$$ down as a deposit to be allowed to bid..With out a bid paddle no bid.
Now if you want to talk about ring man or bid assistants that is where I can see where many buyers are being influence.
Lorraine