Selling a property is a significant undertaking, and selecting the most effective method can make a substantial difference to both the outcome and the experience.
For many property owners, online auctions are emerging as a preferred route—offering efficiency, transparency, and security that traditional methods sometimes lack.
At Bradley Hall, we are proud to offer a trusted and proven online auction service that is tailored to meet the diverse needs of our clients across residential, commercial, and land sales. As the region’s largest full-service property firm, and with over 35 years of experience and a commitment to delivering exceptional results, our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Below, we provide a detailed overview of how our online auction service works—and how it could benefit you.
Why Sell Your Property via Online Auction?
Online property auctions have grown in popularity due to their clear advantages:
Once the auction concludes, contracts are exchanged immediately, meaning the sale is legally binding. The buyer also financially commits, as they are required to make payment for a non-refundable deposit.
The event of a fall through is extremely unlikely when selling through auction (around 1%), compared to around a third of sales falling through when selling private treaty, as the buyer is both legally and financially committed to the sale.
We can offer a ‘sell for free’ route – there are no upfront costs to try the auction, and no agency fees to pay at the end. We can even offer a competitively priced No Sale No Fee legal package option.
Step-by-Step: The Online Auction Process with Bradley Hall
1. Initial Consultation and Valuation
The process begins with a consultation with one of our auction specialists. We will assess your property, determine whether auction is the appropriate route, and provide a comprehensive market valuation. This includes a recommended guide price based on current conditions and buyer demand.
2. Instruction to Sell
Once you confirm your intention to proceed, we will coordinate the necessary documentation, including Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs), searches, and legal pack preparation. We work closely with a panel of trusted solicitors who can offer competitive rates on a No Sale No Fee basis for legal pack and conveyancing services.
3. Setting the Reserve Price
The reserve price is the minimum amount you are willing to accept for your property. It remains confidential and ensures that your property will only sell if this threshold is met or exceeded. Our team will help you set this price based on market expectations and your specific goals.
4. Marketing Preparation
Our in-house marketing team will develop a tailored campaign for your property, which includes:
This marketing material is used across various platforms, including our website, property portals, targeted emails, and social media channels to ensure maximum visibility.
5. Listing the Property
Once prepared, your property is uploaded to our online auction platform and assigned a unique auction lot number. At this stage, buyers can begin making early enquiries and placing bids in advance of the formal auction window.
6. Viewings and Open House
Although the auction is conducted online, we continue to facilitate in-person viewings or open house events. This allows prospective buyers to gain a clear understanding of the property, increasing the likelihood of competitive bidding.
7. Auction Commencement
Auctions typically run for 28 days. Throughout this period, bidders can place offers online, and our team will provide ongoing updates to keep you informed of progress.
8. Bidding and Auction Close
Once the auction closes, the highest bid above the reserve price is accepted. At this point, the auctioneer declares the property sold, and contracts are exchanged immediately, ensuring a secure and binding transaction.
9. Post-Auction: Exchange of Contracts
The winning bidder pays a non-refundable deposit, and your legal representatives will coordinate the next steps with the buyer’s solicitors to finalise the transaction.
10. Completion
Completion generally takes place within 28 days of the auction’s conclusion. On completion day, you will be required to ensure the property is vacant and to arrange for key handover. Your solicitor will then oversee the transfer of funds and finalise the sale.
At Bradley Hall, we understand that selling a property is a pivotal moment. Our online auction service offers a streamlined, secure, and modern solution for vendors seeking swift, reliable results without compromising on professionalism or service quality.
With a dedicated team, industry-leading marketing, and a well-established digital platform, Bradley Hall ensures your property is presented to the right audience—maximising your chances of a successful sale.
For more information on our Auction service, visit https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/end-to-end-services/auctions-service/
