How to estimate closing costs to expect on auction property

[Leigh Ann Smith]

I have been searching on the forums for quite awhile today, but no luck finding the info I am looking for.  Somewhere on Biggerpockets I learned that you should never use estimates when real numbers are available, and that has been our goal when assessing properties.  However, in this case, I can't even find estimates.

If we buy a bank foreclosure property at auction (in Houston/Harris County, Texas), what can we expect to pay in addition to the purchase price and the auction fee?  Will a title company give us an amount we would be charged for a property costing $X?  Is a title company even involved when you purchase a property at auction?  What about realtor fees?  Are there any?

Thanks for your help!

[Steve Babiak]

@Leigh Ann Smith - there are two different types of foreclosure auctions, so maybe you can clarify which type you are inquiring about.  Those two types would be: first, from a site like auction.com or hubzu.com; and the second would be more commonly called courthouse steps.  The fees definitely will differ between those.

For courthouse steps fees, the sheriff's dept should be able to give an idea if it's a sheriff sale; the trustee would have that info if a trustee sale.

In my county's sheriff sales, the costs are all taken from the bid amount as well as liens that are to be paid ahead of the mortgage lien, then the mortgage lien gets paid, and then any remaining funds to lien holders in order of priority, and any overage still left goes to the borrower.  All of that comes from the bid amount in my county so no added costs.