Selling a House at Auction
Selling a house at auction can be an effective way to achieve a faster sale with greater certainty, particularly if you are looking to avoid the delays and fall-throughs that are often associated with traditional house sales.
The Edward Mellor auction process is structured, transparent and legally binding, making it a proven route to market for thousands of sellers.
However, it is important to understand how it works and whether it suits your circumstances before proceeding.
Why do houses sell at auction?
Houses sell well at auction because the process is built around speed, commitment and competitive bidding.
When the hammer falls, contracts are exchanged immediately, meaning the buyer is legally obliged to complete the purchase. This creates a level of certainty that is difficult to achieve through estate agency sales, where transactions can fall through weeks or even months into the process.
Variety of Properties Selling at Auction
Part of the excitement of buying at auction comes from the eclectic and varied selection of properties that come up for sale. Indeed, Edward Mellor takes pride in selling any property, in any condition, at auction.
This is good for buyers, but also equally as positive for sellers, who benefit from the lively market and competitive bidding that property auctions generate.
Property auctions allow sellers to sell almost any property in any condition, which in turn attracts buyers with a varied range of interests and motivations.
A thriving Northern property market
In recent years, the North West has continued to grow as something of a ‘powerhouse’ within the property market. The region’s reputation for competitively priced stock, thriving economy and connectivity to the centre of Manchester has driven a surge in buyer activity.
This is especially good news for those selling at auction, as competition between landlords and first-time buyers continues to fuel demand for houses and flats across Greater Manchester.
Likewise, the growth of Manchester as an economic hub has helped to create a lively demand for commercial property locally.
Is selling at auction a good idea?
Selling at auction can be a very good option, but it depends on your priorities. If your main goal is speed and certainty, it is often one of the strongest methods available, as the legally binding nature of the sale removes much of the uncertainty associated with private treaty transactions.
It can be particularly effective if you want a defined completion date, are selling a property that requires renovation or investment, have previously experienced a sale falling through, or need to release funds quickly.
Landlords and commercial sellers often turn to auction to secure a quick turnaround of their sale, while executors selling at probate often rely on auction for its simplicity.
When selling with Edward Mellor Property Auctions, vendors can set a fixed Reserve Price. This sets the minimum price that the property will sell for, meaning that sellers are never forced to sell for less than they are willing to accept.
However, setting the right guide and reserve price is essential, so taking professional advice is key to generating competitive bidding and achieving the best result.
To find out how much your property could be worth at auction and have our team outline a unique marketing strategy for your home, contact us using the link below.
How long does it take to sell property at auction?
One of the main advantages of auction is the clear and relatively short timeline. The marketing period typically lasts a few weeks, with contracts exchanged on auction day and completion usually taking place within around 28 days.
This structured approach provides clarity for both seller and buyer, helping to reduce the risk of delays once a sale is agreed.
Can the property sell before the auction date?
Yes, in many cases it is possible to accept a pre-auction offer.
If a strong offer is received before the auction, the seller may choose to accept it, resulting in a sale ahead of the auction date. This can be beneficial if it meets your expectations and avoids the uncertainty of waiting for bidding on the day.
Pre-auction sales still follow a structured process and will usually proceed under auction terms, maintaining speed and commitment.
Do I need a solicitor to sell at auction?
Yes, a solicitor or conveyancer is essential when selling at auction. They are responsible for preparing the legal pack, which includes title documents, searches and any special conditions of sale, as well as handling the transaction through to completion.
The legal pack is a key part of the process, as buyers rely on it when deciding whether to bid. Having this prepared in advance helps ensure the sale can proceed smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
How much commission do auction houses charge?
Auction fees can vary depending on the property and the level of service provided, but they usually consist of an entry or listing fee alongside a commission based on the final sale price. The exact structure should always be clearly explained before you commit, so you have a full understanding of the total cost of selling.
Who pays the auction commission – buyer or seller?
Sales commission is the fee charged by the auctions team for successfully selling the property. It is invoiced after exchange of contracts and usually settled by deduction from the deposit paid by the purchaser.
The rate of commission is agreed between the seller and the auction team and shown in the Agency Agreement, which sets out the fees and terms of business that apply.
What happens if the property does not sell?
If a property does not reach its reserve price at auction, it will not sell on the day. However, this does not mean the opportunity is lost.
Sellers can still negotiate with interested bidders after the auction, review and adjust their pricing strategy, or re-enter the property into a future auction.
Auctioneers will often continue discussions with underbidders, and this can still lead to a successful sale shortly after the event.
Contact Edward Mellor Property Auctions
If you are considering selling your house at auction and want to understand whether it is the right approach for you, the Edward Mellor Auctions team can help.
We provide expert guidance on pricing, marketing and the auction process, alongside a personal service tailored to your circumstances.
As one of the largest and most successful auction houses in the North West, we combine local knowledge with a proven track record to help you achieve the best possible result.
Get in touch today to discuss your property and take the next step with confidence.
Contact Edward Mellor Auctions
Related Pages
Buying a House at Auction | Selling a House at Auction | How do Property Auctions Work? | Common Auction Questions | Auctions | Edward Mellor| Auction FAQs