UK Property Auctions 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Property Auctions

Property auctions can be a very confusing issue most especially if you do not know the basic facts about it. If you are particularly interested in entering this industry or simply desires to purchase your dream house in this method, then there is no good time than now to learn all the basic information that can be obtained in auctions.

    Auctions are becoming poplar in the UK as it provides citizens an alternative route of obtaining property without actually breaking the bank. As costs of housings continuously increase in the recent years, it is no wonder why many people are turning into auctions to achieve a better property deal. Even those people from the upper class are engaging in these events as there are thousands of homes and properties that have a lot of potential sold every year.

Types of properties are sold in auctions

There are various property types that can be found in auctions. These include disused properties, repossessions, commercial properties and even luxury homes.

•    Commercial properties are shops or buildings that intended to be used for business. These include restaurants, shopping malls and workplace complexes. These properties are most of the time purchased by a developer who wishes to utilize them for his prospective plans.
•    Repossessions are also very popular in auctions. These are home that have been repossessed by banks or lending institutions. Buying repossessed property at auctions can be very advantageous as banks will usually offer them at rock bottom prices to gain their profit instantly.
•    Disused properties are empty homes which are in great need of repair. Frequently these old homes are inherited or bought in poor conditions. The owners will usually have the original plan of fixing and refurbishing it but unfortunately he does not have the means to do so. As a result, the property is left unfixed year after year.
•    Believe it or not, luxury homes are also sold in auctions. These properties will usually target the upper class willing to buy these expensive homes.

Why are properties sold for a lesser price in auctions?

This is for the reason that most home owners or sellers would want to sell their properties in less time than the traditional method. There are also some such as local authorities or housing associations who do not wish to be owners so they want to sell it off.

To make this quick sale possible and to generate interest among many buyers, the prices of these properties will usually be very low reserve prices 

Choosing the property you want

Generally, auction houses send prospective buyers with a property auctions catalogue at about three weeks before the sale. This holds all the basic details of the properties on sale. At this rate, you need to move fast as you will only have limited time to organize everything before the actual auction.

Once you have selected the real estate you wish to bid on, you should arrange at the auction house its viewing arrangements. You will either bee giving a deposit for the keys or a companion will be accompanying you who can also answer all your inquiries.

If you strongly want to purchase the property, then you can submit a good offer to the seller at any time before the auction if you wish. If the seller finds it suitable then you will exchange contracts and the property will be withdrawn from the auction.

Costs to take into account to make profit

Whether you are buying a home to refurbish to live in or sell for a much higher price later on, you should be well-informed on the different costs you will be paying for before actually bidding for a property. Bear in mind that as soon as you have successfully bid for the property, you are required to pay 10 % deposit at the actual property auction day. Additionally, you are also obliged to pay the total amount of the negotiated price within 28 days of the sale. Therefore, it is important that you have your finances in order even before the auction date. Make certain that you have formal agreement with your lender on the property concerned to ensure that you will be making all your payments on time.

Tips on the actual auction day

•    It is advisable to come to the auction house early so that you will find a good seat and get comfortable with the whole auction scene.
•    Before going to the auction, call beforehand and check if there are any requirements that you should bring. In this way, you will be aware of the documents that you need to bring with you.
•    Decide what approach you are going to use when you bid. Some auction house provides a paddle with a number you will be able to bid with. You can use this or if this is not an option, you can also raise your hand or catalogue to get the auctioneer’s attention. Either way, just stick with one method.
•    Do not be easily influenced by the auctioneer especially if he goads you on making a higher bid that will exceed your maximum limit. Remember that you are there to make bargain and not buy a property that is over your budget.
•    Remember that bidders included in the house auctions is also interested on the property you wish to bid on so it probably will not be good idea to tell anyone of your plans.

Knowing all these important facts about the bidding process can beyond doubt help you in your quest for a property that is economical and worth investing in. Do not take your chances and learn as much as you can to guarantee your success.

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