Online vs. In-Person Property Auctions
Choosing the Right Auction Format for Your Property Purchase
The way properties are bought at auction has changed significantly in recent years. While traditional, in-room bidding is still popular, many buyers are now turning to online property auctions for added convenience and flexibility. Both formats offer unique advantages — and potential challenges — depending on the buyer’s preferences, experience, and goals.
This guide breaks down the key differences between online property auctions and in person property auctions, so you can choose the best approach for your next property purchase.
Understanding the Auction Process
Property auctions, whether held in-person or online, follow a structured process:
- Properties are listed in an auction catalogue with a guide price
- Buyers conduct their due diligence and arrange viewings before bidding
- On auction day, bidding takes place and the winning bid results in an immediate exchange of contracts
- Completion typically occurs within 20–28 days
The mechanics may be similar, but how they play out in real time varies greatly depending on the auction format.
Get familiar with the full process in our guide to buying at auction.
What to Expect from In Person Property Auctions
In person property auctions are the traditional format. Buyers attend a physical venue such as a hotel, auction house, or civic centre. Auctioneers call out the lots, and bidders raise paddles or hands to signal their offers.
Advantages of attending in person:
- Immediate feedback from the room’s atmosphere and bidding behaviour
- Easier to assess your competition in real time
- Direct interaction with auctioneers and staff for clarification
- Contracts and deposit payments are completed immediately on site
For those who thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy the energy of a live auction room, this format provides a dynamic and engaging experience.
Read more on what to expect on auction day.
How Online Property Auctions Work
Online property auctions allow buyers to participate from anywhere using a secure digital platform. Once registered and verified, bidders can place their offers online, either in real-time or over a timed bidding period.
Benefits of online auctions:
- Flexibility to bid from home, work, or on the go
- More time to consider your bidding strategy during multi-day auctions
- Broader access to regional and national properties
- No travel costs or logistical hurdles
This format suits buyers who prefer to take a more measured approach or those purchasing property in distant locations.
To prepare for an online auction, start with our prior auction checklist.
Key Differences Between Online and In-Person Auctions
While the end goal is the same — securing a property — the experience of online property auctions compared to in person property auctions is notably different.
Atmosphere
In-person auctions are typically fast-moving, with an energised environment that can influence bidding decisions. Online auctions offer a more private, less pressured space, which can help buyers stick to their budget.
Timing
Traditional auctions happen at a set date and time, and bidding often takes place in quick succession. Online auctions may run over a few days, allowing buyers to bid, pause, and review in their own time.
Visibility of Competitors
Being in the room gives a clearer sense of who you’re bidding against. Online, the anonymity of other bidders can make it harder to judge their interest or intent.
Convenience
Online auctions are more accessible for buyers who live far from the property or have limited availability. In-person auctions require travel, time off, and physical presence but offer direct communication and instant decision-making.
Payment and Paperwork
In-room purchases typically involve handing over a deposit (usually 10%) by cheque or card immediately after the gavel falls. Online auctions handle deposits digitally, often via bank transfer or card authorisation.
Whichever format you choose, it’s essential to understand your responsibilities once the hammer falls. Visit our FAQs on what happens at auction for more insight.
Which Format Is Best for First-Time Buyers?
First-time auction buyers may find online property auctions less intimidating. The extra time to bid, the flexibility to review information during the process, and the ability to avoid travel make online formats particularly attractive for newcomers.
That said, attending a live auction can be a valuable learning experience. It allows buyers to witness different bidding styles, gain confidence, and understand how quickly auctions move in real life.
Our first-time buyer guide offers a helpful overview to ease into either method with confidence.
Are Online Auctions Cheaper or More Competitive?
Both auction formats offer the potential to secure a deal — or overpay — depending on the circumstances. Some buyers find that online property auctions attract a larger pool of national buyers, which can increase competition for highly desirable lots. Conversely, in person property auctions may lead to bidding wars due to the energy of the room and the emotional aspect of live competition.
Ultimately, the best chance of success comes down to preparation, clear budgeting, and knowing when to walk away.
Explore the benefits of buying at auction to understand how value is achieved regardless of format.
Tips for Successful Bidding – Online and In-Person
For Online Auctions:
- Register early and verify your ID to avoid delays
- Set your maximum bid in advance and stick to it
- Monitor bidding activity in the final minutes — late bids are common
- Use bidding tools or proxy bids if available on the platform
For In-Person Auctions:
- Arrive early and familiarise yourself with the venue
- Sit where you can see the auctioneer clearly
- Have your paperwork and deposit method ready
- Keep emotions in check — avoid chasing beyond your planned budget
Understanding auction jargon can help you feel more prepared. Use our auction glossary to get familiar with key terms.
Final Thoughts: Pick the Format That Matches Your Strategy
There’s no right or wrong choice — only what suits your situation best. Online property auctions provide unmatched convenience and flexibility, ideal for remote buyers and those who like to take their time. In person property auctions offer a hands-on, immediate experience that appeals to those who want to read the room and act quickly.
Regardless of the format, the principles of auction buying remain the same: do your homework, stay within budget, and understand the legal and financial commitments before placing a bid.
For current listings and auction opportunities in either format, start your search on the UK Auction List homepage.