The number of properties sold at auction rose by 53% year on year to 1,462 in January, new figures show.

There was a 47% rise in the number of properties listed for auction in January to 1,162, according to the latest data from Essential Information Group.

It found the success rate for sales rose to 68% and the total sum raised was £270m, an increase of 57% compared to the same month in 2025.

National Association of Valuers and Auctioneers Propertymark president Stuart Collar-Brown says: “These figures show that more sellers are turning to auctions as a secure and time-certain way to achieve a quick sale.

“For those facing changing circumstances, such as relocating abroad, trying to secure a place for their child at their first choice of schools, or needing to move swiftly, auctions provide greater certainty and avoid many of the delays and fall-throughs often seen with traditional private treaty sales.

“At the same time, buyers and sellers are becoming more aware that auction is simply another effective method of sale, rather than a last resort.

“As misconceptions fade, more people are recognising the transparency, competitive bidding and clear timelines that auctions offer.

“With the market continuing to shift, and wider reforms to the homebuying process in England and Wales still some way off, many are choosing not to wait months for a transaction to complete.

“Auctions provide a proactive alternative.”

But he says it is important for buyers and sellers to work with qualified professionals.