Failed banks’ contents on the block this week

Banks have foreclosed on property at record levels over the past year, auctioning off everything from houses to high-rises. This week, the tables turn.

Furniture and office equipment from five failed Georgia banks are being sold by federal regulators through an online auction open to anyone with a valid credit card.

Need a printer? A desk? A new car? These items can be yours, alongside framed artwork, indoor plants, lamps and chairs.

Of course, the goods are coming out of bank branches, not fancy homes, and as such may have limited appeal to a general audience. The for-sale list includes a coin sorter, money bags, check embossers and stampers, and even a safe.

But virtually anything found in an office is on the auction block: microwave ovens, refrigerators, shelving, cabinets. “This is a great opportunity to pick up the kind of equipment one would need to open an business or an office,” said Rick Levin, whose Chicago company runs the online sale for the Federal Reserve Deposit Insurance. Corp.

Bidding began Saturday and ends Friday. To bid or view an inventory list and photos, go to www.ricklevin.com.

Everything will sell, no matter how low the price, Levin said. Participants will be allowed into branches to inspect property on Thursday before they submit final bids.

The property is from Alpha Bank & Trust of Alpharetta; First Georgia Community Bank of Jackson; Haven Trust Bank of Duluth; FirstBank Financial Services of McDonough; and FirstCity Bank of Stockbridge.