This depends on what type of real estate auction is scheduled. If it is not a foreclosure auction but rather an owner/seller auction then yes. We encourage you to view the property before auction day. Due diligence on the part of the bidder is important with auctions. Contact the auction company managing the auction and inquire about times when open houses will take place, as well as any paperwork available on the property. Auctioneers want you to feel comfortable on auction day. Always feel free to call and ask questions.
If on the other hand, it is a foreclosure or other court-ordered auction which is likely a distress situation then it is likely that an inspection will not be made available as the owner of record will probably not cooperate with the process and any viewing of the property would be considered trespassing.
If you have been made aware of the sale date by a legal notice contact the law firm listed upon that notice and ask who the auction firm is. You may or may not get further information. Being that most court-ordered or legal process auctions do not provide much information about the asset an investor typically can buy the property below market value, however, you get what you get. In distress auction situations you will be expected to provide an earnest deposit to be eligible to participate. If you are a winning bidder and choose not to close by the scheduled date specified in the terms of sale you will forfeit that deposit. Auctions involved in a legal process are not arm’s length retail transactions.