Award-winning property auctioneer Auction House has posted record results for sales during the first two months of the year.

Lots offered were well ahead at 571, with 432 lots sold during January and February 2015, delivering a success rate of 76% and raising over £52.5 million (£52,528,000).

Commenting on the opening set of figures for the group, Founding Director Roger Lake said "We’re off to a buoyant start across the country and the auction market is looking strong despite a shortage of lots and increased competition for instructions.

“Hammer prices were encouragingly positive last month on the back of growth in 2014 and proved yet again that for the right properties competitive bidding can get better prices than private treaty.”

The publication of the record results comes shortly after Auction House became the UK’s second largest commercial property auctioneer in terms of lots sold, following a decision to expand its commercial arm. The group now regularly embarks on relationships with established regional agents and surveyors, to act as introducers.

Roger Lake added: “The numbers, boosted by a noticeable growth in commercial lots, indicate a healthy opening to the year for regional auctions where rooms have been full and achieved prices strong.

“We’re also pleased to report that investors seem to be out in force, paying good money for safe investments. Properties which already provide an income are commanding a premium.”