Industry data published at the start of the year highlighted strong growth in both supply and sales volumes, with total funds raised reaching £5.9 billion. Regional performance was particularly strong in London, the South East and the South West, reinforcing the growing importance of auctions as a mainstream route to market.
Against this backdrop, First for Auctions has delivered an excellent first quarter, with strong results across its January, February and March sales.
Q1 2026: By the Numbers
Across the first three auctions of the year, First for Auctions achieved:
93 lots sold
Over £20 million raised
Success rates of around 78%
Average uplifts exceeding 15% above guide prices
These figures demonstrate continued confidence from buyers, sellers and agents, as well as the effectiveness of auctions in delivering strong outcomes.
A Strong Start in January
The year began with an impressive January auction, which raised £7.5 million across 37 lots. Multiple properties sold well above reserve, supported by competitive bidding and a highly engaged audience.
This early success set the tone for the rest of the quarter, confirming that demand was already in place at the start of 2026.
February: Competitive Bidding Drives Results
Momentum continued into February, with another highly competitive sale demonstrating sustained buyer demand.
The auction achieved a 78% success rate and raised more than £6.25 million, with an average uplift of 15.5% above reserve.
Several standout lots significantly exceeded expectations, including a London flat that sold 59% above guide price, underlining the impact of competitive bidding in the auction environment.
March: Collaboration Delivers Market-Leading Results
March’s auction reinforced the strength of the market while highlighting the growing importance of partner agent collaboration.
With 31 lots sold and more than £6.3 million raised, the sale delivered consistent results across the catalogue. Notably, properties introduced by partner agents achieved some of the strongest outcomes of the month, including one property in Kingston that sold nearly 60% above guide price.
These results demonstrate how combining agent expertise with a specialist auction platform can unlock significant value for sellers.
Key Trends Shaping the Auction Market
Several clear trends have emerged from Q1:
Strong Buyer Demand
High levels of registered and active bidders indicate a competitive marketplace, with buyers actively seeking well-located opportunities and investment stock.
Price Growth Through Competition
Average uplifts of more than 15% above guide prices highlight the ability of auctions to generate competitive tension and maximise sale values.
A Shift in Perception
Auctions are increasingly being used as a proactive strategy rather than a fallback option, offering speed, transparency and certainty in a changing market.
Growing Agent Collaboration
More estate agents are recognising the value of auctions as part of their service offering, using them to accelerate transactions and deliver results for clients.
Looking Ahead
With a strong first quarter completed, the outlook for the remainder of 2026 is positive.
Buyer demand remains resilient, and the continued growth of the auction sector suggests that auctions will play an increasingly important role in the property market.
For agents, sellers and investors alike, the opportunity is clear: when positioned correctly, property auctions can deliver speed, certainty and strong financial outcomes.
Download our full Q1 Report here.
Partner with First for Auctions
Join a growing network of forward-thinking agents using auction as a strategic route to market.
Together, we can help you:
Maximise property value
Deliver speed and certainty
Unlock new revenue opportunities
If you're considering how auctions could support your clients or pipeline, get in touch:
Paul Lynch, Business Development Manager
01344 753120
enquiries@firstforauctions.co.uk
