You need a solicitor.
or else (or as well) you do the following:
1. Go to an auction on a property you have no interest in and observe.
2. Find a property you are interested in. Arrange a survey in advance of the auction. Have your solicitor check the title in advance of the auction. Organise loan approval in advance of the auction. Make sure you organise a planning search in advance of the auction.
3. Attend auction and bid. One tip is never to open your mouth until the property is being withdrawn or just about to be knocked dow. If your top figure has been exceeded, withdraw quietly from the room. Otherwise, start bidding and see who is against you.
I think the last auction I was at where anything sold was September 2007 and that was only because the purchasers were fixated on the road.
mf