What must an auctioneer do regarding property for sale prior to the auction?

An auctioneer is responsible for conducting thorough research and verifying ownership of the property prior to the auction. This step is crucial because it ensures that the auctioneer has a clear understanding of what is being sold and can provide accurate information to potential buyers. Verifying ownership helps prevent potential legal disputes that could arise after the auction concerning who actually owns the property in question.

Additionally, this diligence aids in building trust with bidders, as they can be more confident in the legitimacy of the sale when they know that the auctioneer has thoroughly vetted the items. It also helps the auctioneer to address any liens or encumbrances on the property, ensuring a smoother transaction process.

In the context of the other options, while conducting appraisals, advertising, and securing permits may all be important elements of the auction process, they do not replace the necessity of confirming ownership and having accurate information at the forefront. Each component plays a role, but the initial step of verifying ownership is foundational in maintaining the integrity of the auction process.