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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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We’ve used Zara Davies and her team in Yeovil for a number of years for conveyancing and property transactions and can honestly say that the service we’ve received has been second to none. Communication is unfailingly swift, professional and courteous at all times. Any issues are resolved quickly and with great empathy and understanding. We genuinely feel that we are being looked after and that we’re valued as clients. Rosie Kirby also deserves an honourable mention for her friendly and helpful assistance. Would never go anywhere else.

Residential Property Client

We’ve used Zara Davies and her team in Yeovil for a number of years for conveyancing and property transactions and can honestly say that the service we’ve received has been second to none. Communication is unfailingly swift, professional and courteous at all times. Any issues are resolved quickly and with great empathy and understanding. We genuinely feel that we are being looked after and that we’re valued as clients. Would never go anywhere else.

Residential Property Client

Thank you for all the help and guidance during the house sale. It was greatly appreciated.

Sue

I have been very pleased with the guidance I have been given with the sale of a house. It has been very personal and professional. The administration of the process has been excellent.

Susan

Legal Awards and Accreditations