The third quarter of 2026 has seen the auction market experience a “robust but challenging” performance, says  Propertymark. 

Stuart Collar-Brown, NAVA Propertymark President, comments: “Vacant houses and flats in need of modernisation remain the most popular kind of lot at many auctions, and we’re seeing some very strong results in town and village locations across the UK, with City of London-based leasehold flats are struggling for traction due to the saturated nature of this asset class.   

“Speculative parcels of land and garages tend to perform well because this particular asset class is worth different amounts based on the intended use of such land in the long term, so where there are competing views on potential use and value, this can result in competitive bidding.” 

Commenting on the auction market in Wales specifically, Melfyn Williams, Past President of NAVA Propertymark, adds: “Investment properties still have strong demand at auction, and this, coupled with areas such as Gwynedd specifically, which have seen stable rental growth and a strong tourism sector, is delivering positive signs for landlords. 

“Supply in the Welsh market is currently high, but with fewer transactions. However, people may be waiting to see what happens with mortgage rates, inflation, the Autumn Budget and the direction of travel regarding house prices before committing to a move. 

“In turn, attractively priced auction lots are turning heads and viewing levels remain consistent with the previous year. However, the market does feel more price-sensitive currently.”

Matt Burrows, NAVA Propertymark Advisory Panel Board member, said that the auction market remains dynamic, but it is certainly more price-sensitive than it has been. 

“For me, the key message to sellers is that auction remains a strong and effective route to market, particularly where speed, certainty and transparency are important. 

“However, it is not a way of avoiding the realities of the market. The best results are still being achieved where sellers engage with the evidence, set a realistic reserve and allow the guide price to do its job in attracting interest. 

“Overall, I would describe the market as resilient rather than easy. There is still healthy demand, but buyers are disciplined, and pricing strategy is increasingly important.”