http://www.trulia.com/voices/Home_Buying/Can_you_buy_a_home_that_goes_to_auction_if_you_are-109917A home we are interested in was owned by my boyfriend's second cousin. It is currently being sold as a "short sale". I have been told that anyone in "arm's length" of the seller is prohibited from buying the house. I understand this part, but if the house is scheduled to go to auction at the end of the month, are we still prohibited from trying to buy it through the auction? If not, any information regarding buying through an auction would be appreciated. Thank you!en-ushttp://www.trulia.com/voices/profile/Real_Estate_Pro-Leesburg_VA-289610/http://www.trulia.com/voices/profile/Real_Estate_Pro-Leesburg_VA-289610/Nm82 - generally, yes, there is a prohibition against this. But, consider calling the trustee listed for the foreclosure. You should be aware of how auctions typically work. Generally, the bank will bid what is owed to them, which is generally more than the property is worth, so you'd probably end up overpaying dramatically for the property. See the post below.Sun, 12 Apr 2009 05:35:45 -0700