First for Auctions has recorded its largest auction on record, with 70 lots being up for sale in October.
The increase in volume reflects an increase in sellers seeking the speed and certainty of an auction rather than waiting for a traditional sale to progress.
Daniel Gale, head of auctions at Leaders Romans Group, parent of First for Auctions, said: “Budget speculation always creates hesitation in the private sales market, but auctions thrive on realism. Sellers want certainty and buyers want clarity, so both sides are taking a pragmatic approach.
“We’ve seen record entries, competitive bidding and sensible pricing across probate, refurbishment and investment stock – all signs of a healthy, functioning marketplace responding logically to change.
“The Budget has encouraged people to make decisions, not delay them, and that’s why we’re seeing such strong activity. Whenever the market faces uncertainty, auction volumes increase. It’s a straightforward equation – people want control, and an auction gives them that.”
The number of new instructions has grown consistently through the year, with an average of 38 per auction earlier in 2025, rising to 54 in September and 70 in October.
The September auction generated sales of £7.19 million from 66 lots, reaching an average uplift of 17% above guide price.
First for Auctions partners with local and regional agents.
Gale added “The results of our partnership programme show how well-presented, mortgageable properties that have struggled to sell through private treaty often perform exceptionally well at auction.
“When a property is sensibly priced and ready to sell, an auction provides a transparent and efficient route to completion, making it a strong option for owners who want certainty without compromising on value.”