It’s hardly surprising that the property auction market has seen an increase in activity in recent years, with buyers looking to find their dream premises at a bargain price, and to complete on a deal as quickly as possible without getting tangled up in post-offer negotiations and delay tactics.

However, while buying property at auction can be a thrilling and potentially rewarding experience it is important to be aware of the legal implications, rules and regulations, and possible risks involved in such a purchase.

In this article, property expert Hollie Watkins from Banner Jones explores the key considerations for anyone looking to buy property at an auction in the UK.

Understanding property auctions

 “Firstly, it is important to note that purchasing any property at auction creates a legally binding agreement from the fall of the hammer,” Hollie explains. “The winning bidder is legally and contractually obliged to complete the purchase from that point. It is therefore essential that you thoroughly research the property before making a bid. This should include a detailed physical inspection of the property, checking for issues or defects, and obtaining a copy of the legal pack as soon as possible”

Many Auctioneers would be open to pre-Auction offers and therefore the sooner an inspection has been carried out, the better.

Whilst it may be costly to obtain survey results pre-Auction, in the long run it may be better in spending up front costs than being left with a defective property which could potentially cost more money than it may be worth.

Understanding the legal pack

Hollie says that the legal pack will contain various documents referring to important information relating to the property. For example, a typical auction pack will include the Title, searches, planning permission or building regulation certificate,  and any tenancies/lease the property is subject to

Note, searches are not a legal requirement and therefore some auction packs may not include such information. Searches are advised as these will reveal important information otherwise not known. Searches are of particular importance if the Buyer is requiring finance from a lender (many lenders will want minimum searches to be obtained). If the searches are not enclosed within the auction pack, the Seller is not obliged to provide them and therefore would need to be obtained at the Buyers cost (and will need to be obtained in time for completion).

“Arguably one of the most important documents forming part of the auction pack will be the Contract of which the terms outlined will need to be adhered to by both Seller and Buyer. Within the Contract you will find information such as deduction of Title, which means it will confirm the extent of the property to be sold, the actual Sellers (as this may not be the registered proprietors of the property and may be an Executor for example), the agreed completion date and any fees that become payable by the Buyer.

“Common fees included within the Contract can include a Buyer’s premium, Seller’s Solicitor legal fees, reimbursement of searches and any further costs of the Seller. Check carefully the terms surrounding fees and when these become payable. Some Buyers may not have factored in the additional fees to pay when making a decision as to the bid they are willing to make.

“It is extremely important that the Contract is read thoroughly before agreeing to bid. As noted, as soon as Contracts have been exchanged/the hammer has fallen, all contractual obligations including cost demands must be met and complied with.

“Instructing a Solicitor or Conveyancer to review the legal pack and provide you with their professional opinion on any potential issues or concerns is strongly advisable. A Solicitor will be able to review the documentation contained within the auction pack and report to you any contractual terms and potential issues so that the Buyer has an educated, more informed idea as to the risks involved when purchasing the property. It can also assist should the Buyer be the successful bidder.

“Should Contracts be exchanged, your Solicitor will already have to hand information relating to the property and therefore can proceed relatively quickly.”

Property auction process

 When attending an auction arriving early and registering your interest with the auctioneer is essential. Buyers could also register their interest online by submitted an Online Bidders Form of which they would need to refer to the Auctioneer.

Hollie says: “Remember, you will be required to provide proof of identity, complete a registration form and pay a deposit. If you are the successful Buyer, the deposit will be payable as soon as the Contract has exchanged. The deposit is typically 10% of the purchase price, however this may have been varied within the Contract. Please ensure that at least 10% deposit is available on the day of the auction.

“It is important to set a budget before attending the auction and stick to it. Auctions can be fast-paced and emotionally charged, so getting carried away and overbidding is easy. Also, remember that there may be additional costs on top of the purchase price, such as your legal fees and Stamp Duty Land Tax so make sure that you budget for all disbursements as best you can.”

Should I buy property at auction?

 Hollie says that the main benefit of buying property at auction is the potential to secure a bargain. However, she also cautions that it is important to be aware that risks are also involved. For example, the property may have hidden defects or be subject to restrictions that could affect its value or your ability to use it as intended.

“Buying a property at auction can bring with it many benefits, including some cost savings and speed in seeing the purchase to a swift definitive completion, but it is important to approach each auction with caution and fully understand the legal implications, rules and regulations, and any risks involved.

“By doing your research and seeking professional advice, you can increase your chances of a successful and stress-free purchase.”