Bradley Hall Auctions explores the latest trends in the UK property auction market, with insights from Managing Director Helen Wall on what the figures mean for investors, developers and sellers.
The property auction market continues to play an important role in the UK’s property sector, offering opportunities for buyers and sellers across a diverse range of locations and property types.
The latest Property Auction Insights from EIG Property Auctions highlights the changing nature of the market during the first half of 2026, with residential auction activity increasing across the majority of UK regions.
For Bradley Hall Auctions, which operates across England and Wales, the figures demonstrate the importance of a national approach to property sales and the opportunities available to those prepared to look beyond their local market.
Residential auction sales rise across the UK
EIG’s data shows that 15,349 residential properties were sold at auction during H1 2026, representing an increase of approximately 8.4% compared with the same period in 2025.
Importantly, sales increased across 12 of the 13 regions covered by the report, highlighting that auction activity is growing across much of the country, rather than being concentrated in a single location.
London recorded the largest increase, with residential auction sales rising by 24%, while Yorkshire and the Humber and the North-West both recorded 12% growth. The North-East also saw a 10% increase.
For buyers, this growing market means greater choice, while sellers can benefit from an increasingly established audience of people actively considering auction as a route to purchase.
Helen Wall, Managing Director of Bradley Hall Auctions, said: “The latest figures from EIG demonstrate the continued importance of auctions within the wider UK property market. We are seeing a broad range of opportunities emerge across different regions, and the national nature of the market means buyers can look beyond their immediate area when searching for their next investment or property purchase.
“For sellers, this creates an opportunity to reach a wider audience of motivated buyers. Whether a property requires refurbishment, is already producing rental income or presents a commercial or development opportunity, auction can offer a structured route to market.”
A range of opportunities for buyers
The EIG report highlights the breadth of properties being sold through auction, with 37% of residential sales in H1 2026 below £100,000, 58% below £150,000 and 81% below £250,000.
Average residential auction sale prices also varied considerably across the regions, ranging from £55,000 in the North-East to £325,000 in London.
This regional variation offers buyers the opportunity to explore different markets according to their budget and investment objectives. From residential investments and refurbishment projects to properties requiring modernisation, auctions can provide access to a diverse range of stock.
Flats are also becoming an increasingly significant part of the auction market. In Q2 2026, they accounted for 27.2% of residential auction sales, compared with around one in five during much of the period between 2021 and 2024. Flat sales were also 18.1% higher than in Q2 2025.
Helen added: “The growth in flat sales is particularly interesting, as it reflects the variety of property coming to auction. Leasehold considerations, refurbishment requirements and other challenges can influence how a property is bought and sold, but they can also create opportunities for buyers who are prepared to undertake the necessary due diligence.
“Our advice is always to understand the property, review the legal documentation and ensure you are fully prepared before bidding. The right preparation is essential to making informed decisions.”
Changing opportunities for landlords
The report also considers the impact of the Renters’ Rights Act on the auction market and landlord behaviour.
Tenanted properties accounted for 10.2% of residential auction sales in H1 2026, compared with 9.9% in 2025 and 13.3% in 2024.
While the longer-term impact of the legislation remains to be seen, auction continues to offer landlords a potential route to sale, whether selling with a tenant in situ or following the return of vacant possession.
For investors, this can create opportunities to acquire income-producing properties, while sellers may benefit from access to buyers seeking different types of residential investment.
Bradley Hall Auctions: A nationwide approach
With properties marketed across England and Wales, Bradley Hall Auctions supports sellers and buyers across the national property market.
Our auctions department offers online auctions covering residential, commercial and land opportunities, helping connect properties with buyers across a wide range of locations.
As the auction market continues to broaden, our focus remains on providing a professional and accessible service for clients looking to buy or sell.
Thinking about selling a property at auction? Contact Bradley Hall Auctions to discuss your requirements with our team: https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/end-to-end-services/auctions-service/
Source: EIG Property Auctions, Property Auction Insights, September 2026.
