Auction market broadens as sales rise across most regions
Summary
EIG’s latest Property Auction Insights shows the residential auction market expanding across most UK regions, with sales up in 12 of 13 regions in the first half of 2026. Flats are taking a larger share of auction activity, and the report highlights that lease terms, service charges, cladding, building safety issues and major works continue to influence buyer appetite and mortgageability.
Why it matters
Residential surveyors may increasingly encounter auction instructions involving flats, tenanted properties and assets with known defects or legal complexities. The article also reinforces the need for clear, accurate property information in legal packs so buyers can assess risk and bid appropriately.
Key points
- Residential auction sales rose in 12 of 13 regions in H1 2026.
- Flats accounted for 27.2% of residential auction sales in Q2 2026, their highest share in the period analysed.
- Lease length, service charges, ground rents, cladding and building safety requirements are affecting demand and mortgageability.
- Tenanted properties remained a notable part of auction sales, supporting landlord disposals with tenants in situ.
- Auction continues to be used for properties needing refurbishment or where speed and certainty are priorities.
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