The Growing UK Property Auction Market

The UK property auction market has grown significantly in recent years. What was once viewed as a niche route for distressed properties is now becoming a mainstream way to sell a wide range of homes and investments.

At AffordaBid, we’re seeing this shift first-hand. More homeowners, landlords and investors are turning to auctions because they offer something the traditional property market often struggles with — certainty, transparency and speed.

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Growing UK Property Auction Market

Recent industry figures show how strong the auction sector has become. In 2025, more than 41,000 properties were offered at auction across the UK, with almost 29,000 successfully sold, generating around £5.9 billion in total sales. (Source)

Auction sales have also continued to increase year-on-year. For example, the number of lots sold rose from around 25,000 in 2023 to over 28,000 in 2024, highlighting growing demand from both buyers and sellers. (Source)

While auctions still represent a smaller portion of the overall property market, their share is growing steadily.

Why Sellers Are Choosing Auctions

One of the biggest advantages of auctions is certainty. When a property reaches its reserve price and the bidding closes, the sale becomes legally binding. This removes one of the most common frustrations in traditional sales — transactions falling through late in the process.

Auctions also provide speed and structure. Traditional sales can take months and often depend on fragile property chains. Auction transactions operate on a clear timetable, giving both buyers and sellers greater clarity.

Transparency is another major benefit. Buyers compete openly, allowing the market to determine the final price.

A Wider Range of Properties

As auctions have grown in popularity, the types of properties being sold through them have expanded.

Today’s auction catalogues commonly include:

• Renovation and refurbishment projects

• Buy-to-let investment properties

• Land and development opportunities

• Commercial or mixed-use buildings

• Probate properties

• Standard residential homes where sellers want a fast and reliable sale

Online auction platforms have also made auctions more accessible, attracting a broader mix of buyers than ever before.

The Future of Property Auctions

With strong buyer demand and a growing range of properties being sold, auctions are becoming an increasingly important part of the UK property market.

At AffordaBid, our goal is to make auctions simpler, fairer and more affordable for buyers and sellers alike.

If you're considering selling, why not explore whether auction could work for your property?

Get in touch with the AffordaBid team, share this article with someone who might find it useful, or contact us to discuss your property and selling options.