Property auctions can be a great place to pick up a 'bargain', whether you are looking for a home or an investment.

As well as being a quick and relatively hassle free way to buy a home, no driving around viewing endless houses, no negotiations, and no last minute fall through if the house sellers get a better offer, the auction process is easy. You simply look through the auction catalogue, find a property you like, arrange a viewing and do some research, and show up prepared on auction day.

However, buying at a property auction does require careful planning. Thousands of properties are sold at auction in the UK every year – and many are BMV (below market value), meaning there are plenty of bargains to be snapped up. So, remember to do your homework carefully - unlike buying through an estate agent, you cannot change your mind if you later discover something bad about the property. It is your job to find out everything that you can before the auction begins.​

It's important that you view a property before you bid for it at auction. There are so many things to consider and often the most important questions are forgotten.

Ask the relevant questions by taking our helpful checklist with you on your viewing. It may also be useful to take along the property details supplied by the auctioneer to ensure that their information is accurate.

Also check the property for signs of subsidence and confirm that the exterior is in good condition especially the roof and drainage. Double check the boiler, electrics and plumbing in the property and make sure they are all in decent working condition. Finally, you can ask to see copies of guarantees and service certificates.

P.S. Don’t forget to take your tape measure and your camera!

PRINT OUT a copy of our viewing checklist.​