Sell Your Property at Auction for Maximum Competition
Harness the power of competitive bidding to achieve the best possible price for your property. Our modern method of auction combines traditional auction benefits with online convenience, reaching thousands of active buyers across the UK.
How It Works
A simple, straightforward process from start to finish
Free Auction Appraisal
Our auction experts assess your property and provide a guide price recommendation. We'll explain the auction process, timeline, and expected outcomes based on current market conditions.
Property Marketing Launch
Your property is professionally photographed and listed across major auction platforms, reaching thousands of registered buyers. We conduct block viewings and provide detailed legal packs to serious bidders.
Auction Day Bidding
Watch as qualified buyers compete for your property through our modern online auction platform. Transparent, real-time bidding with reserve price protection ensures you maintain control.
Exchange & Complete
Once the hammer falls and reserve is met, the sale is legally binding. Exchange happens immediately, with completion typically within 28 days. No fall-throughs, no renegotiations.
Best For These Situations
Is this you? This method works particularly well for:
Unique or Unusual Properties
Properties that don't fit the traditional mould - converted churches, commercial premises, land with potential, or properties with unusual features that attract specialist buyers.
Investment Properties
Properties with sitting tenants, HMOs, or strong rental yields attract competitive bidding from investors. Auction is ideal for properties that generate immediate income.
Properties Needing Work
Renovation projects, fire-damaged properties, or homes requiring modernisation. Developers and refurbishment specialists actively seek these opportunities at auction.
Probate Sales
Executors benefit from the transparent, time-bound auction process. Achieve best price for beneficiaries with a definite completion date and no prolonged negotiations.
Time-Sensitive Sales
Need certainty on completion date? Auction provides a fixed timeline from listing to completion, typically 8-12 weeks total. Perfect for relocation, downsizing, or financial planning.
Competitive Market Locations
Properties in desirable areas or with development potential benefit from multiple buyers competing. Competition drives prices up, potentially exceeding guide price.
Compare Sale Methods
See how different methods stack up
| Feature | Guaranteed Sale | Assisted Sale | Auction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timeline | 7-28 days | 3-6 months | 6-10 weeks |
| Certainty | Very High | Medium | High |
| Viewings Required | None | Multiple | 1-2 |
| Chain Risk | None | Yes | None |
| Property Condition | Any | Good | Any |
| Legal Binding | Immediate | At Exchange | At Hammer |
| Buyer Type | Cash | Any | Cash |
Not sure which method is right for you? Take our 2-minute assessment →
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this sale method
What is the Modern Method of Auction?
The Modern Method of Auction is an online auction process that combines traditional auction benefits with modern technology. Bidding happens online over 28-56 days, making it accessible to more buyers. Once the reserve is met, the sale is legally binding with completion typically in 28 days. If you need an even faster sale, compare this with our Guaranteed Sale option which can complete in as little as 7 days.
What are auction fees and who pays them?
Seller fees typically range from 2-3.5% + VAT of the sale price. We provide transparent fee structures upfront. In Modern Method auctions, buyers may also pay a reservation fee (typically £5,000-£6,000) which is non-refundable if they withdraw.
What is a reserve price and guide price?
The guide price is the advertised price to attract buyers, typically set 10-15% below expected sale price. The reserve price is your minimum acceptable price - if bidding doesn't reach this, you're not obligated to sell. You set the reserve with our guidance.
What is the success rate of property auctions?
UK property auctions have a 75-80% success rate, significantly higher than traditional estate agent sales (around 50% first-time success). Properties that don't sell can be re-auctioned or sold through alternative methods. See how this compares to traditional estate agents in our Comparison Matrix.
How long does the auction process take?
From instruction to auction day: 4-6 weeks. Auction bidding period: 28-56 days. Completion after sale: 28 days. Total timeline: approximately 8-12 weeks from start to funds in your account.
Can I withdraw my property before auction?
Yes, you can withdraw before the auction starts, though we recommend against it once marketing has begun. Once bidding starts and reserve is met, the sale becomes legally binding for both parties.
What happens if the property doesn't reach reserve?
If bidding doesn't reach your reserve price, you're not obligated to sell. However, we can negotiate with the highest bidder post-auction, re-auction with adjusted pricing, or explore alternative sale methods like Assisted Sale or Guaranteed Sale.
Is auction suitable for all property types?
Most properties can be auctioned successfully. Particularly suitable for: investment properties, renovation projects, unique properties, probate sales, and properties in competitive locations. We'll advise if auction is your best option during appraisal.
Have more questions? Contact our team →
Other Sale Methods
Get Your Free Auction Appraisal
Discover if auction is right for your property. Our experts will provide a guide price and expected timeline with no obligation.
Request Auction Appraisal