Surplus Federal Property for Citizens

Introduction to Surplus Federal Property

Property the government does not need is considered “surplus” and if the property cannot be donated to a state or public agency, nonprofit organization, it is sold to the general public.

GSA oversees sales of surplus property for civilian federal agencies. GSA sales include a wide range of items of interest to both individuals and businesses. There are a variety of systems and programs described in this section that citizens can use for purchases depending on the type of property.

Surplus property is characterized as “personal property” or “real property.”

Personal Property

“Personal property” refers to everything from ordinary items to specialized equipment. Personal property includes assets ranging from commonplace office equipment and furniture to more select products like scientific equipment, heavy machinery, airplanes, vessels, and vehicles.

GSA Auctions®

GSA Auctions® has been developed to offer the general public the opportunity to bid electronically on many federal assets. The auctions are completely web-enabled, allowing all registered participants to bid on a single item or multiple items (lots) within specified timeframes. 

For more information or to search and bid on available property, visit GSA Auctions®.

For other methods of sale including live auction, fixed price, drop-by, negotiated, and sealed bid, visit GSA Surplus Personal Property Sales.

Vehicles

GSA has a specialized system to sell vehicles to the public. GSA Fleet vehicles range from compact sedans, pickup trucks, and passenger vans to buses and large trucks. These vehicles are serviced regularly and kept in top condition. GSA holds public auctions across the nation year-round. The GSA AutoAuctions® website offers the make, model, year, and even the color of available vehicles. 

For more information or to find out when and where vehicles will be auctioned, visit GSA AutoAuctions®  or GSA Auctions®.

Computers

Electronic computer equipment is available for purchase through GSA Auctions® as well as GSA Surplus Personal Property Sales.

In addition, GSA also maintains a specialized program for the acquisition of computers for schools. The Computers for Learning program places computers in classrooms and prepares children to contribute and compete in the 21st century. The program transfers excess federal computer equipment to eligible schools and educational nonprofit organizations giving special consideration to those with the greatest need.

For more information, visit the Computers for Learning (CFL) Website.

Real Property

The term “real property” is used to describe the following:

  • Undeveloped land;
  • Office buildings;
  • Warehouses;
  • Commercial and industrial facilities;
  • Military holdings; and
  • Single and multi-family residences.

For instructions on how to bid on properties as well as a list of available properties, visit the Office of Property Disposal’s Real Estate Disposal Website.

 

Last Reviewed 1/13/2009