The property auction market continued its steady start to 2026 with more lots being offered and sold across the UK although total money raised slipped slightly as average prices softened.
Latest figures from the Essential Information Group show that 4,534 lots were offered nationally in February, up 6.7% on the same month last year, while sales rose 6.2% to 3,274 lots. The success rate held broadly firm at 72.2%, only marginally below February 2025’s 72.6%.
Despite the increase in activity, total funds raised fell by 2.4% year-on-year to £645.3m, suggesting that while demand remains strong, pricing has eased slightly compared with last year.
David Sandeman (main picture, inset left), Managing Director of the Essential Information Group, reckons that the latest figures show the market continuing to build momentum.
STEADY START TO THE YEAR
He says: “February maintained the steady start to the year in the auction arena. A total of 4,534 lots were offered nationally, up 6.7% on February 2025, while sales increased by 6.2% to 3,274 lots sold.
“The success rate remained broadly stable at 72.2%, slightly below last year’s 72.6%. Total funds raised reached £645.3 million, a decrease of 2.4% year on year, showing a slight softening of the average sale price.”
Regional data for the latest three-month period from December to February shows strong growth in several parts of the country, with London remaining the largest auction market by value.
STRONG GROWTH
He adds: “Regionally, the latest three-month period from December to February showed strong growth across several markets. London remained the largest market by value, raising £364.6 million, up 23.6% year on year, alongside a 21.3% increase in sales. The West Midlands also recorded significant growth, with lots sold up 35.0% and total raised rising 30.7% to £132.2 million.
“East Anglia reported strong gains, with sales increasing 35.7% and total raised up 43.4%. The North-West remained the largest regional market by volume, offering 1,503 lots and raising £145.7 million, up 14.1%.”
Activity levels remain ahead of last year, with the latest quarterly figures pointing to continued strength in the auction sector as the year progresses.
Sandeman says: “Overall, the figures show auction supply and sales continuing to run ahead of last year’s levels. Several regions recorded strong increases in activity during the most recent rolling quarter, indicating continued momentum across the market as 2026 progresses.”
