Before and After Auction Deals: How?

[G P]

Hey all,

Here is a question from a rookie. A lot of people say deals happen before or after a foreclosure auction. I am wondering how exactly those deals take place. Who do you approach, how do you make an offer?

I am especially interested in the "after-auction" thing. Would this mean going to the bank and making an offer? How do I find out which bank I should go to? Also, how much below the asking bid can I go in my offer?

There is an auction coming in my area and I saw a few nice places that could fit my starter's budget. I wonder if there is a way to make them even better deals.

G.

PS: I'm new to the forum, but holding off on the introduction part until I relocate to my desired market in few weeks. I've been reading and jotting down things like crazy since I found this helpful site.