Auction market activity picked up in April 2025 after a quiet spell, with auction numbers showing solid year-on-year (YoY) growth across the UK, essential information group (EiG) found.
EiG reported 3,136 lots offered, up 17% on April 2024, with sales rising 16.3% to 2,139 lots.
Residential auctions made up most of this, but commercial sales were also strong, up 48.1% and the total raised rising by 35.6% YoY.
More than £381m was raised in April, a 10.9% increase, showing steady buyer confidence.
Across the regions, the South West and Wales saw broad growth in the number of lots offered, lots sold, and total raised.
London and Yorkshire saw gains in value raised but volumes were more subdued.
The North East and East Midlands saw sales and total raised fall, despite more lots being supplied.
Stuart Collar-Brown, president at NAVA Propertymark, said: “Propertymark property auctioneer members continue to report growth in the market, and it is encouraging to see that the total lots offered and sold across all sectors is on the rise.
“Alongside increased exposure of auctions and improving knowledge amongst buyers and sellers with regards to auctions, changes to Stamp Duty thresholds, which commenced from April, may have contributed towards this spike in activity within the residential sector.
“As for the spur within the commercial sector, this is on the rise, in part, due to current and prospective residential landlords placing their money elsewhere.”
Collar-Brown added: “With additional regulations and financial hurdles to overcome for those investing in residential properties, commercial property investment offers the potential for higher returns, stable income, and capital appreciation, as well as the benefits of long-term leases and tenant responsibilities.
“Unlike residential properties, commercial investment can offer a more diversified and stable investment, with the potential for reduced risk and increased overall returns.”
