In what situation can the sale of property in an auction be considered complete?

The sale of property in an auction is considered complete when the auctioneer declares it sold. This declaration signals the end of the bidding process and establishes that the highest bid has been accepted. It creates a binding agreement between the seller and the highest bidder, assuming any additional conditions are met as specified in the auction terms.

Prior to this declaration, the auction is still in progress, and bids can continue to be placed. Until the auctioneer announces that the item is sold, a bid may be challenged or surpassed by another participant. Once the auctioneer makes the declaration, it indicates that the transaction is formalized and legally binding.

In contrast, stating that the auction is open merely indicates that bidding is starting, and making a bid signifies an intention to purchase but does not finalize the agreement. Additionally, signing a contract may occur later, but it is not the moment that the auction sale is deemed complete since the verbal declaration of the auctioneer solidifies the sale at the auction itself.