Holly and I went to a house auction this morning and placed some bids. It has to count as one of the most terrifying experiences of my life.
In the end, the house went over our price limit and the two guys who were bidding against us got the place. No hard feelings about it, as we felt they paid over what it was worth. That said, it's an incredibly stressful situation, purpose-designed to make you nervous and unsure of yourself.
Fortunately something amazing happened just after the auction. I can't give any details just yet, but will shortly.