UK property auctions sprang back to life in April, with total sales rising 16.3% year-on-year and over £381 million raised – a 10.9% increase compared to the same month in 2024 – according to the latest figures from Essential Information Group (EiG).
The rebound follows months of subdued performance, driven largely by economic uncertainty and a sluggish start to the year.
But April saw 3,136 lots offered nationally, up 17% year-on-year, as both residential and commercial markets responded to shifting investor sentiment and evolving tax and regulatory frameworks.
Commercial auction sales posted the strongest gains, up 48.1% compared to April 2024, while the total capital raised in the sector jumped 35.6%, pointing to a decisive shift in investor appetite.
RESIDENTIAL UP TOO
Residential volumes also posted healthy growth, underscoring renewed confidence among buyers amid more stable mortgage conditions and increased awareness of auction opportunities.
Regionally, the South-West and Wales led the revival, with broad-based increases in lots offered, lots sold, and overall value raised. London and Yorkshire saw mixed outcomes, with gains in value masking flatter activity volumes.
In contrast, early signs of market fatigue emerged in the North-East and East Midlands, where rising supply met falling sales and subdued receipts.
REGAINING MOMENTUM
David Sandeman, managing director of EiG, noted that the April results “confirm a market regaining momentum in terms of both volume and value,” but cautioned that regional variability reflects a more selective and value-conscious buyer base.
“Activity increasingly mirrors local dynamics – supply, pricing expectations, and demand shape very different outcomes across the country,” he says.
Industry bodies echoed the cautious optimism.
Stuart Collar-Brown, President of NAVA Propertymark, says auctioneers are reporting growing confidence, particularly in residential sectors likely buoyed by recent changes to Stamp Duty thresholds introduced in April.
IMPROVED UNDERSTANDING
“The spike in residential auction activity may reflect both improved understanding of the auction process and tax policy tailwinds.
“Meanwhile, commercial auctions are gaining ground as investors diversify away from residential lettings, which face rising regulation and narrowing margins.
“Commercial property offers the appeal of long-term leases, stable yields, and tenant responsibility for maintenance—making it a compelling, lower-risk proposition in the current climate.”
