Despite global economic uncertainty, the auction profession remained resilient in Q1 2026, with 80% of surveyed members reporting that the number of lots achieving their reserve price stayed the same or increased compared with the previous quarter.

Property auctions can offer speed, certainty and access to properties that may not be available through the traditional sales market. However, analysis of complaint data from The Property Ombudsman (TPO) shows that consumer understanding cannot be left to chance. The findings suggest that consumers are entering the process without appreciating the risks, timescales, fees, or the point at which they become legally or financially committed.

The Q4 2025 Auctions Barometer reveals a sector gaining confidence as base rates ease and digital innovation accelerates. With rising lot numbers, strong reserve price performance, and online formats leading the way, the report highlights how auctioneers are adapting to economic shifts while continuing to deliver results for buyers and sellers across the UK.

Propertymark head office is the proud home of a giant circus-themed gavel which was sold as part of the Bidpath Foundation’s Gavel Art Trail and Charity Auction in November 2025. The Foundation was set up in honour of Bidpath colleague and NAVA Propertymark Advisory Panel member George Wade following his brain tumour diagnosis in 2024. It aims to raise funds for underrepresented causes through community-led auction initiatives.

The Q3 2025 Propertymark Auctions Barometer reveals a confident auction market despite wider economic uncertainty, with rising lot numbers and strong reserve-price performance. The industry awaits potential policy changes in the Autumn Budget, auctioneers remain optimistic heading into 2026, encouraged by steady demand, evolving technology, and expectations of improving affordability.

Auctions remained resilient this quarter, with 81% of lots achieving or exceeding the reserve price, increased stock levels, persistent 3.6% inflation and a 4.25% base rate. Growth in online participation and steady demand signal continued market strength heading into H2 2025.

Police have called on auctioneers and high-value dealers to help recover four historic bronze statues stolen from the grounds of Iford Manor in Wiltshire during the night of 19 June 2025. This incident highlights the continued vulnerability of heritage assets and the crucial role that auctioneers and agents can play in preventing the circulation of stolen goods.

The first quarter of 2025 delivered a strong performance for the UK auction sector. Despite a backdrop of global economic uncertainty and pending Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) changes, activity across England and Northern Ireland accelerated, driven by motivated buyers and sellers.

The Propertymark Protected company, Cheffins, purchased the machine in 2024 from an on-site auction which the firm hosted and hopes it could now raise up to £20,000. The fully restored 1963 Fordson Super Dexta will go under the hammer in October 2025, with all proceeds going to the Addenbrookes Charitable Trust.

The auctioneering sector continues to adapt and exceed consumer expectations, as demonstrated by the substantial growth in live-streamed events and online engagement. Notably, 41% of member feedback indicates a sentiment of expansion regarding the number of lots available, with the highest proportion surpassing their reserve prices.

August tends to be one of the quieter months in the auction calendar, however September’s figures demonstrated an extremely positive response, with a nearly 10% increase in lots offered and sold across the UK. As the economy continues to stabilise, it is fantastic to see members report strong demand and growth in performance.

A recent auction has sent waves of excitement through the world of memorabilia collectors, with items from the legendary British comedian Eric Morecambe achieving record-breaking prices and highlighting the pivotal role of professional auctioneers in accurately valuing, presenting and selling these unique cultural artefacts.

Trading in ivory from the common hippopotamus, killer whale, narwhal and sperm whale will now be banned under The Ivory Act 2018 (Meaning of “Ivory” and Miscellaneous Amendments) Regulations 2025. The new legislation was originally laid in parliament in May 2023, under the previous UK Government, but implementation has been delayed due to a lack of parliamentary time.

Choosing to sell properties by chain-free auction can avoid lengthy and uncertain buying procedures and save buyers time and money ahead of the Stamp Duty Land Tax increases in April 2025.

Regulations come into force on 2 December 2024 which will allow local authorities in England to auction off the leases of persistently empty high street shops. The UK Government states that the scheme will breathe life back into town centres and drive local growth and opportunities. Propertymark welcomes the move, but we would like to see more detail on which areas will benefit the most, how the powers will be funded, and how they will be used in practice by councils.

The auction sector is buoyant with 38% of agents reporting increased lot numbers in Q2 2024. Despite this positivity, challenges remain. The economic outlook remains mixed; our members are concerned about the cost of doing business. Positively, the quarter ended with inflation in line with the Bank of England’s target, a precursor to a long-awaited reduction in the base rate.