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Are you considering buying or selling property at auction? Our property auction guides can help you navigate the process with confidence. In fact, regularly consulting property auction guides is highly recommended for first-time buyers and sellers.

Understanding the costs involved is crucial. Moreover, property auction guides often break down expenses so you know exactly what to expect.

In this video, we’ll break down property auction fees for 2026 and ensure you’re well-prepared.

Auction fees can range from 12-15% above the hammer price.

This includes deposits, premiums, and extra charges.

Knowing about costs like the 10% deposit rule and the 2% + VAT buyer’s premium is just the start.

Recent legal changes affect how fees are disclosed. The SPS Groundworks v Mahil ruling requires sellers to clearly list charges in auction catalogues. This enhances transparency and helps you budget effectively. Next, property auction guides also explain these legal updates in detail.

Property auction guides

Now, let’s dive into what auction fees are. Auction fees include charges for buying or selling real estate through auction houses. Buyers face immediate costs like deposits and premiums right after making the successful bid.

Sellers sometimes pay commissions. Only upon successful sales. This setup allows auction houses to offer marketing support and legal arrangements.

So, who pays what? Buyers typically cover: – A buyer’s premium of 2% + VAT of the hammer price, minimum £5,000 + VAT – An administration fee of £1,000 + VAT – A 10% deposit right after becoming the Successful , usually highest bidder.

Sellers 

Sellers, on the other hand, usually pay: – Auctioneer’s commission of 2% + VAT of the sale price – An entry fee of £300 to £1000 plus vat – Legal pack preparation costs of £200-£500 Sellers may charge buyer’s premiums for specific lots, so always check individual property details. Let’s talk about buyer fees.

The buyer’s premium, crucial for auction houses, is generally 2% + VAT of the final price. This fee is due immediately with the deposit. Premiums can vary from 1% to 3.5%, depending on the auction house and property value.

Auction costs 

Next up, administration fees help cover costs such as legal preparation and compliance checks. Palace Auctions charges £1,000 + VAT, while competitors charge between £195 and £1,200, including VAT.

Now, let’s discuss deposit requirements. Deposits typically equal 10% of the hammer price. Expect to pay a minimum deposit of £3,000 to £5,000 right after winning. Accepted payment methods are bank transfers, debit cards, or banker’s drafts.

Sellers face their own fees, with auctioneer’s commissions typically being 2% + VAT (if charged) of the sale price. Entry fees range between £0 is special cases up to £300-£1000 + VAT. Depending on the marketing package agreed. These upfront costs help in listing properties professionally.

Effective marketing is essential for auction success. Entry fees support promotional strategies, including photography and online advertising. Premium packages offer additional visibility for unique properties.

Now, let’s touch on special conditions. These are unique terms added to auction contracts that can influence costs. Be sure to review these carefully before bidding!

Recent legal changes, such as the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024, will take effect on January 31, 2025. This eliminates the two-year ownership rule for lease extensions and enhances leaseholder protections, making auctions more attractive.

The Modern Method of Auction (MMoA) shifts from traditional processes by providing longer completion periods suited to buyers relying on mortgages. Instead of immediate contracts, MMoA offers exclusivity periods to arrange finances and make informed decisions.

Reservation fees, typically 3-5% of the sale price, differ from traditional deposits that are part of the total cost.

In summary, understanding auction fees and special conditions is essential for a successful auction experience. Moreover, researching property auction guides before bidding ensures you are well-informed.

🔗 Internal Links

Anchor Text URL Context
upcoming property auctions /upcoming-auctions/ Browse our current listings of upcoming property auctions
free property valuation /property-valuation/ Get a free auction valuation for your property

🌍 External Web Links

Anchor Text URL Context
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors property auction guidance https://www.rics.org/ Official RICS guidance on property auctions
HM Revenue & Customs stamp duty information https://www.gov.uk/stamp-duty-land-tax Government stamp duty guidance for auction purchases
National Association of Estate Agents auction standards https://www.naea.co.uk/ Professional standards for property auctions
Rightmove property auction insights https://www.rightmove.co.uk/ Market insights and auction property trends

If you have more questions or need clarification, our team at Palace Auctions is here to help. Contact us at 0207 101 3647 or email us at sales@palaceauctions.com.

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