The latest Essential Information Group data available at the end of Q2 showed that both auction supply and sales remained ahead of the previous year. While the number of lots offered increased faster than the number sold, creating greater choice for buyers and placing some pressure on national success rates, funds raised remained stable and underlying momentum stayed positive.
Against the changing market backdrop, First for Auctions continued to deliver strong results across its April, May and June auctions.
Q2 2026: By the Numbers
Across the second quarter, First for Auctions achieved:
- 166 lots offered
- 103 lots sold
- More than £23.8 million in capital value raised
- 1,595 registered bidders
- A highest monthly average uplift of 23.69%
- 2,015 bids placed during April alone
These results demonstrate sustained buyer engagement and continued demand for properties that are priced and positioned effectively.
The quarter also showed the ability of auction to perform across a variety of market conditions, from April’s largest sale of the year to May’s more challenging trading environment and June’s strong close to the quarter.
April: The Largest Sale of the Year
First for Auctions opened the quarter with its largest and most successful auction of 2026 at that point.
The April auction offered 63 lots, with 43 successfully sold and more than £10 million in capital value achieved. The sale attracted 777 registered bidders, including 264 active bidders, who placed a combined 2,015 bids.
Properties achieved an average of 22.9% above reserve, with strong levels of participation and competitive bidding seen throughout the catalogue.
April’s results took First for Auctions’ year-to-date capital value beyond £30 million and set a strong benchmark for the remainder of the quarter.
May: Resilience Amid Market Headwinds
May presented a more challenging trading environment, with two Bank Holidays, school half-term and wider economic uncertainty competing for buyers’ attention.
Despite these pressures, First for Auctions sold 24 lots and raised £5.8 million in capital value. The auction attracted 269 registered bidders, with an average of 4.5 bidders competing per lot.
Properties achieved an average uplift of 23.69% on guide prices, demonstrating that correctly priced and well-positioned opportunities continued to attract motivated buyers.
June: Strong Momentum Closes the Quarter
June brought Q2 to a positive close, with a larger catalogue, increased bidder activity and competitive bidding across a diverse range of properties.
A total of 63 lots were sold, generating £8 million in capital value. The auction attracted 549 registered bidders, with an average of 4.7 bidders per lot.
Properties achieved an average uplift of 15.72% on guide prices, reinforcing continued demand for well-priced auction opportunities.
Key Trends Shaping the Auction Market
Several clear themes emerged throughout Q2.
Sustained Buyer Engagement
Almost 1,600 bidders registered across the quarter, demonstrating that buyers remain prepared to compete for the right opportunities.
Pricing and Positioning Remain Critical
As auction supply grows and buyer gain choice, realistic guide prices and a clear auction strategy are becoming increasingly important.
Competition Continues to Drive Value
Strong monthly uplifts demonstrate the ability of transparent bidding to create urgency, uncover market value and support positive outcomes for vendors.
Resilience in a Changing Market
Q2 performance remained strong despite seasonal disruption and wider economic uncertainty, reinforcing auction’s ability to deliver speed, certainty and competition in changing conditions.
The Wider UK Auction Market
National figures available at the end of Q2 showed that 3,990 lots were offered, with an increase of 6.2% year on year, while 2,683 lots were sold, up 3.9%.
The national success rate stood at 67.2%, reflecting greater buyer selectivity as supply increased. However, three-month funds raised reached £1.499 billion, representing annual growth of 7% and demonstrating positive underlying momentum across the sector.
Looking Ahead
With a strong second quarter completed, First for Auctions enters the second half of 2026 with continued momentum.
Across the first six auctions of the year:
- 196 lots have been sold.
- More than £43.9 million in capital value has been achieved
- 3,029 bidders have registered
These results provide a strong foundation for further growth throughout Q3.
For agents and sellers, auction continues to offer a proactive route to market built around speed, transparency and certainty.
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
- Revive stalled or difficult sales
- Unlock new revenue opportunities
To discuss your next instruction or partnership opportunities, contact:
Paul Lynch
Business Development Manager
01344 753120
enquiries@firstforauctions.co.uk
