What October’s auction results reveal for today’s sellers and buyers

If you’ve been following the property market recently, you’ll know that things feel a little uneven – strong in some areas, softer in others, and very price-sensitive overall. The latest EIG auction market report confirms exactly that: activity is up, commitment is there, but buyers are being selective and making sure value stacks up before they jump in.

Yet even in this climate, well-positioned auction stock is performing exceptionally well – and our October auction at First for Auctions is a perfect example of how both sellers and buyers can benefit from the current market dynamics.

The market is active, selective, and full of opportunity

Nationally, auction lots offered rose by 4.3% year-on-year and total money raised hit £611m – a clear sign that buyers are still engaging. Success rates have cooled slightly to 68.2%, but that simply means buyers are analysing value more carefully.

Regionally, the South-West delivered a 29.8% uplift in sales and the South-East Home Counties saw a 22.3% increase in total raised. London and the North-East were flatter, underscoring how important correct pricing and positioning are right now.

This selective climate works well for auction – motivated buyers meet motivated sellers, transparency is high, and the best stock attracts serious competition.

Our October results: Competitive bidding from start to finish

At First for Auctions, our October sale showed exactly how strong the demand still is:

• 71% sold success rate
• 18% average uplift above guide price
• 971 registered buyers across the catalogue

That level of buyer engagement doesn’t just happen – it comes from strategic pricing, clear marketing, and a strong database of active investors, homeowners, and developers.

October case studies: Three standout lots

Below are three standouts that show how auction performs for different types of sellers and buyers.

1. Lock Avenue, Maidenhead – Detached house with character and potential

Guide Price: £550,000
Sold Price: £753,000
Uplift: +£203,000 (37% above guide)

A four-bed detached home requiring refurbishment but brimming with long-term potential. Buyers loved the location and scope, and competition was immediate. The final outcome – £753,000 – shows how auction can reveal a property’s true market value quickly and transparently.

View the lot: https://online.firstforauctions.co.uk/lot/details/162754

2. Pinkneys Green, Maidenhead – 0.73-acre bungalow plot

Guide Price: £600,000
Sold Price: £850,000
Uplift: +£250,000 (42% above guide)

This was one of the most anticipated lots of the auction. A substantial plot in a premium village location with wide redevelopment potential. Serious bidders engaged quickly, driving the price to £850,000 – a brilliant result that showcases the appetite for rare and high-potential opportunities.

View the lot: https://online.firstforauctions.co.uk/lot/details/160919

3. Brunswick – Three-bedroom end-terrace project

Guide Price: £230,000
Sold Price: £322,000
Uplift: +£92,000 (40% above guide)

A classic project home, ideal for renovation and with scope to add value. Guided sensibly at £230,000, the property attracted both local buyers and investors. Competitive bidding pushed the price to £322,000 – a strong result that gave the seller certainty and the buyer a great opportunity.

View the lot: https://online.firstforauctions.co.uk/lot/details/162665

What this means for buyers and sellers

If you’re considering auction, it offers clear advantages for sellers and buyers.

For sellers:

• Serious, motivated buyers
• Faster timescales and certainty
• No renegotiation once the hammer falls
• Strong performance for properties needing work or offering development scope
  

For buyers:

• Transparency with full legal packs
• A clear, fair bidding process
• Fast, reliable completion timeframes
• Access to stock before it circulates the wider market

With hundreds of active bidders each month, now is an excellent time to explore your options. Whether you’re a seller wanting certainty or a buyer looking for opportunity, our team is here to help. Get in touch for a free valuation or register for our next auction.