Thinking of selling your property in London and wondering whether an auction might be the right route? With fast turnarounds, committed buyers, and transparent sales, property auctions are growing in popularity — especially in the London market.
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or developer, selling at auction could help you achieve a swift and secure sale at a competitive price. Here’s an overview of how it works, the benefits, and how UK Auction List can help you get started.
Why Sell a Property at Auction?
Selling at auction offers several advantages compared to traditional estate agency sales, particularly in a fast-paced market like London.
Speed:
Traditional auctions typically complete within 28 days, making them ideal if you're looking for a quick sale. There’s no lengthy chain to worry about, and once the hammer falls, the sale is legally binding.
Certainty:
Buyers must have their finances and legal packs in place before bidding, which means no time-wasters and fewer fall-throughs than private treaty sales.
Competition:
In-demand areas like London can attract multiple buyers, pushing prices higher — especially for properties with development potential, tenanted units, or those needing modernisation.
Transparency:
The auction process is open and fair. Everyone can see what’s happening, and all parties have equal access to the same information.
Want to learn more about the advantages of auctions? Visit our full guide on why sell your house at auction.
What Kind of London Properties Sell Well at Auction?
London is a diverse market, and almost any type of property can be suitable for auction. However, auctions are particularly effective for:
- Properties requiring renovation or modernisation
- Unusual or unique homes that are hard to value traditionally
- Tenanted properties or HMOs
- Vacant land or plots with planning potential
- Repossessed or probate properties
- Commercial units or mixed-use buildings
Browse our current and past London auction property listings to get a feel for what’s on offer and what has previously been for sale at auction.
How Does the Process Work?
For over 20 years, UK Auction List has partnered with some of the top performing property auctioneers across the UK, to ensure the auction process is as smooth and rewarding as possible for you, the seller. Our auctioneers will help to demystify the process of selling by auction, so that you can assess whether it is the right choice for you. They will chat through the process with you in more detail, answer all of your questions, and advise on the expected price that you could realistically achieve by choosing sale by auction.
If you're thinking of selling your property at auction, here’s what to expect:
1. Valuation & Auctioneer Selection
We’ll help connect you with the right auctioneer who knows the London market inside out. Smaller auctioneers can offer a personal touch, while national names bring broader reach. Our experienced auctioneers will also advise and agree a Reserve Price with you, which is basically the minimum price you are willing to accept when the property is under the hammer.
2. Marketing & Legal Pack
Once listed, your property will be marketed online and in catalogues. Check out our Marketing Strategies blog for further insights.
Your solicitors will be instructed to prepare a legal pack containing special conditions of sale, title documents, leases (where applicable), searches, planning documentation and office copy entries. This is done in order to have everything ready for dispatch to interested parties, but before anything is sent out draft sale particulars will be sent to you for approval and/or amendments.
3. Auction Day
Whether it's a live room auction or online timed sale, the process is straightforward. If your reserve price is met, the sale is secured immediately, and the successful bidder is legally obliged to pay a deposit upfront, usually 10% of the purchase price.
4. Completion
After the auction, completion usually takes place in 28 days — quicker than most estate agent sales.
Ready to Sell?
If you’d like to explore selling your London property at auction, just fill out our quick contact form and one of our team members will get in touch. We’ll connect you with the right auctioneer, who will provide advice on guide pricing, and help you take the next steps with confidence.
Want to see how similar properties in your area have performed? Browse our London auction listings for upcoming auction sales.
Final Tips Before You Go
- Always set a realistic reserve price with your auctioneer
- Prepare your legal pack early to avoid delays
- Don’t forget — many properties also sell after the auction via post-sale negotiations
- Read through our full Auction Day guide to learn more about what happens on the day of sale
If you're ready for a faster, more certain sale, selling your London property at auction could be the smart move — and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
To maximise the success of an auction, sellers are encouraged to explore additional insights and detailed guidance available through UK Auction List. Remember that UK Auction List does not assist with legal matters, legal packs, arranging viewings, or handling the auction itself.