UK residential auction supply rises as success rates dip

UK residential auction supply increased in May 2026, though success rates declined slightly as buyer demand failed to keep pace with the growing number of properties coming to market.

Data from the Essential Information Group (EIG) shows 3,493 residential lots were offered during May, representing a 4.8% increase year-on-year. However, the 2,331 homes sold during the month resulted in success rates declining by 3.1%. Total sales generated £436.8 million, up 2.4% compared to May 2025.

The three-month period from March to May saw 10,397 residential lots offered, up 12.2% year-on-year, while sales increased 10.5% to 7,012 lots. Funds raised climbed 8.5% to £1.22 billion during this period.

Over the past 12 months, residential auction sales reached 27,066 properties, an 8.9% increase, with total funds raised approaching £5 billion at £4.98 billion.

Regional performance varies

Yorkshire and The Humber recorded some of the strongest growth between March and May, with residential lots offered rising 39.6%, sales jumping 37.8%, and funds raised increasing 26.1%.

London posted residential sales growth of 18.7% year-on-year, with funds raised climbing 12.5% to £243.3 million. The South West saw residential sales increase 13.3%, while the North West remained Britain’s largest residential auction market by volume, selling 1,113 homes during the three-month period.

Scotland recorded the fastest rate of residential growth, with sales rising 73% and funds raised more than doubling year-on-year, though from a smaller base.

Supply outpaces demand

The dip in success rates to 66.7% in May reflects a pattern of weakening buyer demand as supply continues to increase at a faster rate. This trend mirrors broader challenges facing the UK property market, where pricing pressures have emerged alongside subdued buyer activity.

Despite the slight decline in success rates, EIG reports that activity levels remain stable heading into the summer market, supported by continued stock flow and sustained buyer interest. The auction sector’s performance suggests ongoing appetite for investment opportunities, particularly in regional markets outside London.

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Kindly shared by PROPERTYWIRE Image courtesy of Adobe