The UK property auctions market continued to show resilience in early 2025 with more lots exceeding their reserve prices and online platforms cementing their place in the auction process, according to the latest data from Propertymark.
In its Q1 2025 Auctions Barometer, Propertymark reports that 56% of NAVA Propertymark members observed an increase in the number of lots exceeding their reserve price compared to the previous quarter.
Meanwhile, 76% of members stated that the number of lots achieving their reserve either remained steady or improved in the first three months of the year.
Despite macroeconomic uncertainty, the volume of stock remained relatively stable, with 40% of auctioneers reporting that the number of available lots across all auction types was broadly unchanged compared to Q4 2024.
AUCTION EVOLUTION
The research also reflects the ongoing evolution of the auction model. While in-person viewings remain dominant – favoured by 94% of members – the mode of conducting auctions has shifted significantly towards digital platforms.
Online auctions are now the most widely used format, employed by 71% of members, ahead of live-streamed auctions (47%) and traditional in-the-room sales (35%).
Nathan Emerson, Chief Executive of Propertymark, says: “It is massively encouraging to see the popularity of auctioneering continuing to show momentum, with the profession continuing a transformational push towards offering an even wider selection of targeted solutions that resonate with client demand.
“It is particularly pleasing to see that 72% of our members report that online methods of interaction are the most popular way to conduct their business. It is also positive to see that 24% of our members reported that lots had exceeded initial reserve prices, which is a true compliment to the ability that auctioneers have to deliver value to sellers.”
INCREASED MOMENTUM
Stuart Collar-Brown, President of NAVA Propertymark, adds: “Considering the many factors currently within the wider global economy, all of which have the potential to affect the auctioneering profession, we have witnessed a strong first quarter during 2025.
“Across England and Northern Ireland there was increased momentum as many people worked with urgency to both buy and sell stock before Stamp Duty threshold changes took effect. However, with interest rates gradually starting to track downwards, we expect to see a robust second quarter regarding property heading through the auctions system.”
Property Soup revealed last month how the UK auction market experienced a dip in performance in May 2025, with a year-on-year fall in both activity and sales, according to the latest figures from Essential Information Group (EIG).
