Auction market surges at start of 2026 with sharp rise in available lots – EiG
A total of 2,162 lots were offered during the month, a 47.3% increase year on year, while 1,462 lots were sold, up 53.1%.
January marked a strong opening to 2026 for the UK property auction sector, with activity increasing significantly across all major indicators, according to Essential Information Group (EiG).
A total of 2,162 lots were offered during the month, a 47.3% increase year on year, while 1,462 lots were sold, up 53.1%.
The success rate improved to 67.6%, and total funds raised reached £269.7m, representing a 56.7% rise compared with the same period last year.
Regional data for the three months from November to January also showed widespread growth.
London recorded the strongest performance, with lots offered up 50.5% and total funds raised reaching £350.2m, a 64.4% annual increase driven primarily by residential demand.
East Anglia saw total funds raised rise 57.7%, while the South-East Home Counties recorded a 20.9% increase.
The North-West remained the highest-volume region, offering 1,264 lots and raising £130.2m, up 23.1%, although with a slightly lower success rate.
The data indicates the auction market has entered 2026 with strong momentum, supported by rising supply and sustained buyer demand, particularly for residential properties, while commercial demand remains more selective.
Stuart Collar-Brown, president of NAVA Propertymark (National Association of Valuers and Auctioneers), said: “These figures show that more sellers are turning to auctions as a secure and time-certain way to achieve a quick sale.
“For those facing changing circumstances, such as relocating abroad, trying to secure a place for their child at their first choice of schools, or needing to move swiftly, auctions provide greater certainty and avoid many of the delays and fall-throughs often seen with traditional private treaty sales.
“At the same time, buyers and sellers are becoming more aware that auction is simply another effective method of sale, rather than a last resort. As misconceptions fade, more people are recognising the transparency, competitive bidding and clear timelines that auctions offer.”
Collar-Brown added: “With the market continuing to shift, and wider reforms to the homebuying process in England and Wales still some way off, many are choosing not to wait months for a transaction to complete. Auctions provide a proactive alternative.
“However, to ensure a smooth and successful sale, it is essential to work with a qualified professional, such as those who are members of Propertymark, who can advise on the right auction route and prepare the necessary legal documentation to maximise interest and deliver certainty.”
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