Central auction rooms were historically the hub of activity, but with online platforms levelling the playing field, regional auctioneers are showcasing their unique talents, says Auction House.
Before the pandemic, central-based auctioneers held sway in the property market. Thanks to their location, they often drew larger audiences for their in-room auctions, attracting far more sellers, buyers and business as a result. But the pandemic turned this situation upside-down.
With the adoption of online technologies, we have found that our regional auction rooms have been able to level the playing field, reaching out to national, and even international, networks while flexing our local expertise. And for the first time, bidders around the world have been granted access to auctions that were once unknown to them.
“Although online auction platforms were developed over 15 years ago, it was the Covid-19 pandemic that cemented their place as the default method of sale,” commented Oliver Prior, our National Commercial Director. “The industry has flourished under its full adoption and this evolution marks the rise of the regional auction room.”
As a result, more buyers than ever before have been able to reap the unique benefits of working with a local auctioneer.
Invaluable local knowledge
This includes the application of niche, local knowledge. In the south west, Auction House Regional Manager and Auctioneer Olivia Boulting has been guiding both buyers and sellers on distinctly local quirks, such as ‘mundic’, a historical building material that was particularly popular in Cornwall from the 1900s to the 1960s. Made of unknown mine waste, particular compositions can lead to structural weakening, rendering some properties non-mortgageable.
However, thanks to Olivia Boulting’s knowledge, sellers have been able to tap into the investor market and receive the best possible price for their properties.
Buyers in the region have certainly been thrilled by the expertise offered: “I deal with auctioneers across the country, but Auction House’s local knowledge really sets them apart. Olivia was excellent on auction day and [her colleague] Chris Mervyn was helpful, knowledgeable and understood our needs perfectly,” said Sam Burkesmith.
At the other end of the country, Auction House East Anglia’s team can provide expert knowledge on local issues such as nutrient neutrality, coastal erosion and upcoming infrastructure schemes. “We have the benefit of knowing our patch inside-out, which can really help when appraising properties,” said Robert Hurst, Auction Surveyor for Norfolk and Suffolk. “In the case of coastal erosion, our knowledge of affected local areas enables us to accurately price lots.”
The personal touch
The growing demand for local auctioneers also means that the auction team is close to hand to personally carry out inspections and answer questions, whereas central auction rooms must rely on external providers. “A huge advantage is that local people can be more responsive,” said Sam Harris, Regional Manager of Auction House South Yorkshire. “We can meet prospective buyers and view each property personally, which helps us to pick up on things and provide personalised guidance.”
A local base also means access to local contacts, which can make a huge difference when a property comes to sale. Commenting on her experience with the Ipswich office of Auction House East Anglia, Auction House client Helen said: “The team has a network of local contacts which beat national online agents hands-down.”
Going the extra mile
Being part of the community also means that local auctioneers are prepared to go that extra step to get their clients the best price.
Last year, Sam Harris spent part of his weekend clearing a severely cluttered house for free to support his client, who was selling the property after the death of her mother.
Learn more about buying and selling at auction
Our network harnesses the service and expertise of the local auctioneer on a national scale. By working collaboratively across our network, we give buyers and sellers a tailored service that creates outstanding results. If you’d like to find out more about auctions and discover if your property is a good fit, get in touch with us to book a free valuation.
Alternatively, you can take a look at our current listings and upcoming auctions.
