Guide to Buying Your Property at Auction

One of the most common questions about property auctions is, “Is it worth it?” In many cases, the answer is yes. Buying a property at auction can be a great opportunity, offering potentially lower prices and a faster purchase process.

Auctions often offer properties that might not be available through traditional sales channels and the competitive environment can sometimes lead to better deals. However, it’s crucial to carry out thorough research and be prepared for the risks, such as hidden issues with the property or the fast-paced nature of the auction.

Although auctions offer a faster and more convenient way to buy property compared to traditional methods, due diligence remains essential. Working with a solicitor is crucial in this process. They will review legal documents, conduct thorough checks and verify the property’s title to help you avoid potential legal issues. Their expertise ensures a smoother transaction and protects your investment by guiding you through the complexities of the auction process.

If you are interested in purchasing a property at one of our auctions, we work with a number of specialists who can assist you. For buyers, Thiara Malik, from Spencer West is our trusted partner.

The auction process involves several key steps to ensure a successful property purchase. From initial research, to registering to bid and being prepared on the day, read on to find out more about each stage of this process.

Research and Preparation

Before the auction, research any properties of interest thoroughly. Check out the auction catalogue, attend viewings and review all property details carefully. It’s also wise to set a budget and get pre-approved for financing to determine your spending limit.

Legal and Financial Checks

Once you’ve identified a property, it’s important you work with a solicitor to review the legal pack. This pack includes important documents such as the title deeds and any special conditions of sale. You should also arrange for a survey to assess the property’s condition and any potential issues and make sure to check the addendum if there is one.

Register to Bid

Next, you will need to register to bid –  typically, this must be done before the auction date. It’s also important to check out the bidder registration conditions, which can vary by auction type and auction house.

If you are purchasing a property with Auction House London, we recommend registering in advance of the auction date. However, you can also register on the day of the auction. Registering on the day allows you to participate in the auction even if your decision to bid is made at the last minute, offering flexibility and convenience. It’s worth noting that to bid with Auction House London, there is a holding deposit of £6,500 so this should be considered ahead of time.

What Happens on Auction Day and How to Bid

On the day of the auction, the auctioneer will introduce each property (lot) and highlight any relevant addendums. The bidding will take place across various platforms, with each property being sold subject to a reserve price. When the highest bid meets or exceeds the reserve, the property is sold at the “fall of the gavel,” and the sale becomes legally binding, unlike traditional property purchases that are “subject to contract.”

If the property doesn’t sell and you hold the highest bid, you may still be contacted afterward.

Bidding can be done in several ways:

• Telephone Bidding: A staff member will call you before your lot is offered. If contact is lost, they are authorised to continue bidding on your behalf.
• Proxy Bidding: A member of the auction team will bid in-person on your behalf.
• Internet Bidding: Once registered and payment is made – if you are bidding in one of our auctions, this refers to the £6,500 holding deposit – you can bid online during the livestream.

Winning the Bid and Completion

After winning the bid, the next steps are straightforward. You’ll usually pay a 10% deposit right away, with 20 working days to settle the remaining balance unless stated otherwise in the special conditions of sale. Your solicitor will help guide you through the legal paperwork, making the final stages smooth and efficient.

If you are successful at purchasing one of our auctions lots, we will require you to transfer your 10% deposit and buyers fee of £1,500 inc VAT, within 24 hours after the fall of the gavel. If you request that we use your £6,500 holding deposit as part or full payment of your deposit there will be an administration fee charged of £240 inc VAT. Once this has been done, we will return the holding deposit of £6,500. If you are unsuccessful, this deposit will be returned once the auction is finished. Make sure to check all special conditions of sale in the legal pack – this will also confirm the completion date.

If you are the successful bidder, the next step in completing the process is to finalise financing and complete any associated paperwork to complete the sale. If you win a bid at one of our auctions, a member of the Auction House London team will contact you during the auction to arrange the deposit payment.

After receiving the funds, we will require additional information, including details for Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks and your solicitor’s contact details. You will then receive a Memorandum of Sale outlining the signed terms and any special conditions of sale. We’ll also forward a copy of the legal pack to your solicitor, as specified on your bidding form. Be sure to send your part of the contract to your solicitor to keep everything on track.

How Much Deposit Do You Need for an Auction Property?

For a property auction in the UK, you typically need a 10% deposit of the final bid price. This deposit is required immediately after winning the auction and it must be paid in cash or cleared funds on the day.

Do You Have to Be a Cash Buyer to Buy a House at Auction?

No, you do not have to be a cash buyer to purchase a house at auction in the UK. However, you must pay the deposit immediately and settle the remaining balance, usually within 28 days. If you are using a mortgage, it is essential to have a mortgage in principle before the auction and ensure the funds can be released quickly. If you are looking for finance, we recommend Together Money, who specialise in property auction finance.

When buying a house at auction with a mortgage, it is essential to secure a mortgage in principle ahead of the auction, which indicates that a lender is likely to approve your loan.

On the day of the auction, your deposit cannot be covered by your mortgage, so you will need to have these funds readily available in cash. The remaining balance is usually due within 28 days, at which point your mortgage will be finalised.

If there is a gap between winning the auction and the mortgage being completed, you may need to consider a bridging loan to cover the difference temporarily and ensure that you meet the payment deadline. Bridging loans can also be used if you’re buying a house at auction that is unmortgageable which you intend to make habitable or lettable so a traditional mortgage can be arranged – again we recommend checking out Together Money who specialise in property auction finance.

Buying property at auction can be a rewarding experience, offering the chance to secure a property quickly and potentially at a lower price. Being prepared, understanding the process and carrying out all due diligence with the support of a solicitor is key to ensuring a successful transaction.

Auctions provide access to a wide range of properties, including unique opportunities that may not be available through traditional methods. Many properties at auction are sold below market value, allowing buyers to find great deals. Additionally, the auction process is transparent and time-efficient, with clear terms and a set timeline for completion, making it easier to plan and finalise your purchase.

At Auction House London, we simplify the process of finding your next property. With decades of experience in conducting successful property auctions, we offer a diverse selection, including residential, commercial and land properties. Our expertise ensures a smooth and efficient auction experience, leveraging our extensive market knowledge to help you find the perfect property.

You’ll also have access to our expert legal partners who are ready to assist you. Currently, we work with Thiara Malik, from Spencer West who has over 20 years of experience in helping buyers secure property at auction.

Learn more about buying property through our auctions or explore the catalogue for our upcoming auction. Alternatively, reach out to one of our property experts, who are available to answer any questions you may have about the auction process and assist you in finding the perfect property.