The auction system really needs a customization. I should be able to see somewhere (e.g. at the User CP) all my active auctions in the order of their expiration. Showing recently ended auctions can also be useful (e.g. in the last 3 days). Also, if I bid on an auction I should be able to see or at least be notified if I'm outbid. I don't know if that's not available right now, but it would be helpful. Regards!
The system should be sending you email if you are outbid already. Can you check your spam folder or something to make sure you aren't getting it? As for a nicer way to see auctions, it's already on the to-do list.