What Is a Private Selling Officer (PSO) Sale in Ohio? A Friendly Guide for Buyers

If you're browsing real estate and stumble across a listing marked as a Private Selling Officer (PSO) sale, you might wonder: What exactly is that? At Beth Rose Real Estate and Auctions, we believe in making real estate easy to understand—especially when it comes to specialized sales like these.

In this article, we’ll walk you through what a PSO sale is, how it works in Ohio, and what you should know as a buyer before participating.

What Is a Private Selling Officer (PSO)?

A Private Selling Officer is a licensed real estate professional appointed by the court to conduct foreclosure sales. Instead of the local sheriff’s office handling the sale, the court can assign a PSO to manage the process. This change—authorized under Ohio Revised Code § 2329.152—allows for a more efficient, flexible, and often digital approach to foreclosure sales.

Think of it as a modern twist on the traditional sheriff sale.

How Does a PSO Sale Work?

Here’s a step-by-step look at what typically happens in a PSO foreclosure sale in Ohio:

1. Foreclosure Begins
   A lender files a foreclosure lawsuit in court. If approved, the court orders the property to be sold to pay off the debt.
2. Appointment of a PSO
   Instead of using a sheriff, the court appoints a Private Selling Officer—like us—to handle the sale.
3. Notice and Marketing
   The sale must be advertised publicly for at least three consecutive weeks before the auction date. At Beth Rose Auctions, we go beyond the basics—using digital marketing, email campaigns, and other channels to increase buyer visibility.
4. Online or In-Person Auction
   The property is auctioned—often online—at a minimum starting price (two-thirds of the appraised value). These sales are open to the public, and bidders must register in advance.
5. Deposit & Closing
   The winning bidder must make a deposit on the day of the sale and complete the full purchase within 30 days of the court’s confirmation of the sale.

Why Buyers Should Pay Attention to PSO Sales

If you're a buyer—especially an investor or bargain-hunter—PSO sales can be a great opportunity. Here’s why:

• ✅ More Transparency: Because PSOs are licensed real estate professionals and licensed auctioneers, they provide more detailed property information and customer service than traditional sheriff sales.
• ✅ Online Auctions: You can bid from anywhere, making participation easier and more convenient.
• ✅ Potential Deals: Foreclosure properties are sometimes listed below market value, depending on the circumstances. In Ohio, a PSO property must sell for at least two-thirds of the appraised value, so often times buyers can purchase properties with instant equity.

What to Watch Out For

Buying a foreclosure property through a PSO sale isn’t quite the same as buying a traditional listing. Keep these tips in mind:

• 🔍 Do Your Research: Properties are sold as-is, which means there are no inspections or repairs before closing. Always research liens, taxes, and title status in advance.
• 💰 Be Prepared to Pay: You’ll need a deposit immediately after winning the bid and must close within the court’s timeline (30 days after court confirmation).
• 📃 Understand the Fine Print: Each PSO sale comes with its own terms. Read the auction rules carefully and reach out if you have questions.

How Beth Rose Real Estate and Auctions Makes PSO Sales Buyer-Friendly

We’re proud to serve as Private Selling Officers in Ohio because it lets us bring our auction expertise directly to foreclosure sales. With over 35 years of experience and three generations of trust, we’re here to make the process smoother, more transparent, and buyer-focused.

When you work with Beth Rose, you’re not just bidding—you’re getting:

• 🧭 Guidance through every step
• 🤝 Personal support from real experts
• 💡 Straightforward information with no surprises
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Ready to Explore PSO Foreclosure Opportunities?

Whether you’re buying your first home or adding to your investment portfolio, PSO sales can open doors to real estate opportunities you may not have considered.

Let us help you navigate it with confidence.

👉 Contact our team or view upcoming auctions to learn more about Ohio PSO sales and how to participate.