Residential property auction sales increased by 53% in January 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, according to data from the Essential Information Group (EIG).
A total of 1,462 homes were sold at auction last month from over 2,000 properties offered, representing a 47.3% increase in volume year-on-year. The success rate improved to 67.6%, while total funds raised reached £269.7 million, up 56.7% on January 2025.
Market dynamics
David Sandeman, Managing Director at EIG, said the figures indicate the market entered 2026 with momentum. “Rising supply has been met by sustained demand, particularly for residential stock, while commercial buyers remain more selective,” he stated.
Sandeman added that the auction sector appears positioned to build on record levels achieved in 2025, with volumes and values continuing to trend higher.
Changing perceptions
Stuart Collar-Brown, President of NAVA Propertymark (National Association of Valuers and Auctioneers), noted that the data suggests more sellers are using auctions for time-certain sales. He cited circumstances such as relocating abroad, school placement deadlines, or urgent moves as drivers for the auction route.
Collar-Brown said buyers and sellers are increasingly viewing auctions as a standard sales method rather than a last resort, with growing recognition of the transparency and clear timelines the format provides compared to traditional private treaty sales, which can face delays and fall-throughs.
The January figures follow what EIG described as a record year for property auctions in 2025, though specific annual comparisons were not provided.