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Residential Property Auctions

Helping you move forward with confidence

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Thinking of buying or selling at auction? We’ll help you get it right

 Property auctions can offer speed, certainty, and competitive pricing - whether you're a seller looking for a quick sale or a buyer seeking a unique opportunity. 

 

At Porter Dodson, we support clients through both traditional and modern methods of auction, ensuring the legal process is handled smoothly from start to finish.

How we help

Whether you're selling or buying, we’ll:

  • Work closely with your estate agent
  • Prepare a comprehensive auction legal pack, including:
    • Special conditions of sale
    • Property searches
    • Replies to enquiries
    • Planning documents and certificates
    • Draft transfer deed
  • Upload the pack to the agent’s website for prospective buyers
  • Attend the auction on your behalf to answer last-minute legal queries
  • Handle all post-auction legal formalities and complete the transaction

 


 

Traditional vs modern method of auction 

 

Traditional auction
  • Held in person, typically monthly
  • Properties sold to the highest bidder on the day
  • Exchange of contracts happens immediately
  • Buyer must complete within 28 days
  • Often attracts cash buyers or investors (e.g. for renovation or repossession properties)

Pros:
  • Fast, final, and legally binding
  • Certainty for sellers
Cons:
  • Less accessible for mortgage buyers
  • Can be intimidating for first-time buyers

 


 

 

Modern method of auction

  • Online auction format
  • Properties marketed in advance by estate agents
  • Buyers can view and make offers before bidding
  • Buyer has 56 days to complete, allowing time to arrange a mortgage

Pros:
  • More accessible to a wider range of buyers
  • Greater flexibility for mortgage arrangements
  • Competitive bidding can drive up sale price
Cons:
  • Entry fees may apply (up to £1,000)
  • Slightly less binding than traditional auctions - buyers may withdraw more easily

 


Why Choose Porter Dodson?

  • Specialist auction experience across both traditional and modern formats
  • Clear, practical advice at every stage
  • Responsive support on auction day and beyond
  • Offices across Somerset, Devon and Dorset, with remote support available nationwide
Michelle Wilson - Colour - High Res - 018_425

For legal advice on residential property auctions

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quotes

We had to get a flat purchase in Exeter done very quickly. Nicola Hughes and her team at PD pulled out all the stops to get the purchase over the line in an amazing short time - 2 months from first viewing the flat to moving in! This was despite major complications with the Land Registry. Throughout the rather fraught (for us) process, Nicola was efficient, calm, reassuring and kept us well informed. Very highly recommended.

Steve

I have just sold a house and Porter Dodson were my choice of solicitors. I am so glad I chose this firm! Louise from the Poundbury branch was so helpful. All my enquiries were answered very promptly and clearly and I felt the whole sale was dealt with very professionally. I would not hesitate in recommending this company.

Ben

Used Porter Dodson for conveyancing on my first house and they were brilliant. All staff I came into contact with were supplying me with all the information and patience when I asked many questions. They provided me with regular updates, advice on process and best choices and gave clear guidance on competing the paperwork. Would absolutely recommend.

Daisy

Used Porter Dodson for conveyancing on my first house and they were brilliant. All staff I came into contact with were supplying me with all the information and patience when I asked many questions. They provided me with regular updates, advice on process and best choices and gave clear guidance on competing the paperwork. Would absolutely recommend.

Daisy

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