Property Auction Fees Explained
Understand the Costs of Buying and Selling Property at Auction
Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s important to understand who pays which fees and when those costs become payable. While fees vary between auction houses and individual properties, most fall into a handful of common categories that buyers and sellers should be aware of before proceeding.
The sections below explain the most common auction fees, who is usually responsible for paying them and how costs can differ between traditional and modern property auctions.
What Are Property Auction Fees?
Property auction fees are the costs associated with buying or selling a property at auction. These can include auctioneer commission, legal fees, deposits, reservation fees and other charges, depending on the auction method and the terms of sale.
In a traditional auction, sellers typically pay the auctioneer’s commission, while buyers are usually responsible for their own legal costs and a 10% deposit when contracts are exchanged. Some modern auctions may also require buyers to pay a reservation fee. Understanding these costs before the auction helps both buyers and sellers budget with confidence and avoid unexpected expenses.
How Much Are Property Auction Fees?
There isn’t a simple answer because property auction fees vary depending on the auction house, the auction method and the property being sold.
For sellers, the main cost is usually the auctioneer’s commission, although marketing or entry fees may also apply depending on the agreement. Buyers are typically responsible for their own legal costs and, in a traditional auction, pay a 10% deposit when contracts are exchanged. Some modern auctions also require buyers to pay a reservation fee.
Rather than focusing on the total cost, it’s more useful to understand which fees apply, who pays them and when they become payable. The sections below explain the most common auction fees in more detail.
Typical Property Auction Fees
Auction fees vary between auction houses, but the table below gives a general indication of the costs buyers and sellers can typically expect. Always request a personalised quote before instructing an auctioneer.
Fee |
Typical Cost |
|---|---|
|
Auctioneer commission |
1%–3% + VAT of the sale price (sometimes fixed fee) |
|
Marketing costs |
£300–£1,000+ |
|
Entry fee |
Often free, but some auction houses charge £100–£500 |
|
£300–£800+ |
|
|
EPC |
£60–£120 (if required) |
|
Buyer’s deposit |
10% of the purchase price (traditional auction) |
|
Reservation fee |
Varies by auction house and property (modern auction) |
|
Solicitor fees |
Vary depending on the transaction |
These figures are intended as a general guide only. Fees vary between auction houses, the type of auction used and the individual property. Always ask for a full written breakdown before proceeding.
How Much Does It Cost to Sell a House at Auction?
The cost of selling a property at auction depends on the auction house, the auction method and the services included. Some sellers pay only an auctioneer’s commission, while others may also pay marketing, legal or entry fees.
Typical seller costs include:
🏠Auctioneer Commission
Auctioneer commission is usually the main cost sellers pay when selling at auction. It is often calculated as a percentage of the final sale price, although the exact amount varies between auction houses and the services they provide.
📢 Marketing Costs
Some auction houses include marketing within their commission, while others charge separately for professional photography, online advertising and catalogue listings. Always check exactly what is included before instructing an auctioneer.
⚖️ Solicitor Fees
A solicitor or conveyancer will usually prepare the legal pack and complete the legal work following the sale. Their fees are separate from the auctioneer’s charges and should be considered as part of the overall selling costs.
🏡 EPC Costs
If your property requires an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), it should normally be arranged before marketing begins unless the property qualifies for an exemption.
đź’· Entry or Listing Fees
Some auction houses charge a fixed fee to list a property for auction, while others include this within their overall selling package. Charges vary, so it’s worth comparing what’s included before making a decision.
What Fees Do Buyers Pay at a Property Auction?
Buying a property at auction involves more than just the winning bid. Depending on the auction method and the terms of sale, buyers may need to budget for deposits, legal costs, Stamp Duty and other fees before completion.
Typical buyer costs include:
đź’° Deposit
Successful buyers at a traditional property auction are normally required to pay a 10% deposit immediately after the auction. The remaining balance is then paid on completion, usually within 28 days.
🔑 Reservation Fee
Reservation fees are commonly associated with modern (conditional) auctions. They are paid by the successful buyer to reserve the property and are usually non-refundable if the buyer later withdraws.
⚖️ Solicitor Fees
Buyers are responsible for instructing their own solicitor or conveyancer to carry out the legal work, review the legal pack and complete the purchase after the auction.
🏛️ Stamp Duty Land Tax
Where applicable, buyers must pay Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT). The amount payable depends on the purchase price, the buyer’s circumstances and the current tax rates.
🔍 Searches
Although some searches may already be included within the legal pack, buyers should check whether additional searches are recommended by their solicitor before completing the purchase.
đź“‘ Land Registry Fees
Once the purchase has completed, Land Registry fees are payable to register the property in the buyer’s name. The amount depends on the property’s value and the type of application being made.
Traditional vs Modern Property Auctions
Traditional and modern auctions follow different processes, timescales and fee structures. Understanding how each method works can help buyers and sellers choose the most suitable approach for their circumstances.
Fee Type |
Traditional Auction |
Modern Auction |
|---|---|---|
|
Deposit |
Usually 10% immediately |
Often smaller initial payment |
|
Reservation Fee |
Usually not applicable |
Common |
|
Exchange |
Immediate |
Usually within 28 days |
|
Completion |
Around 28 days |
Often up to 56 days |
|
Seller Costs |
Commission may apply |
Commission may apply |
|
Buyer Costs |
Deposit, legal fees, SDLT |
Reservation fee, legal fees, SDLT |
Understanding the differences between auction methods can help sellers choose the most appropriate route to sale. Learn more in our guide to Traditional vs Modern Auctions.
Questions to Ask Before Selling at Auction
Auction fees and terms can vary between auction houses. Asking the right questions before you sign an agreement can help you understand the costs involved and avoid unexpected surprises later.
đź’· What Commission Will I Pay?
Ask how the auctioneer’s commission is calculated and whether it’s charged as a percentage of the final sale price or a fixed fee. Also check if VAT is included in the quoted amount.
đź“Ł Are Marketing Costs Included?
Find out whether photography, advertising, auction catalogue listings and online promotion are included within the fee. If not, ask what additional marketing costs you should expect to pay.
đź“„ What Happens if My Property Doesn’t Sell?
Ask whether you’ll still be charged marketing, entry or administration fees if your property doesn’t reach its reserve price. Understanding this upfront can help you avoid unexpected costs.
⚖️ Are There Any Additional Fees?
Request a full breakdown of every cost before instructing the auctioneer. This should include commission, marketing, legal costs, entry fees and any other charges that could apply.
đź“… When Are the Fees Payable?
Ask when commission and other charges become due, and whether they’ll be deducted from the sale proceeds or invoiced separately. This helps you understand exactly when payment is expected.
đź’ł Can Auction Fees Be Deferred?
Some auction houses allow certain seller fees to be deferred until completion, reducing the need for upfront payments. If this option is important to you, ask which fees can be deferred and whether any conditions apply.
Before choosing an auction house, make sure you understand exactly what you’ll be paying and when. These questions can help you compare auctioneers, avoid unexpected costs and make a more informed decision.
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Choosing an auction service isn’t just about comparing fees. Transparent pricing, experienced guidance and access to committed buyers can all make a significant difference to your selling experience and outcome.
With over 40 years of combined experience in estate agency and property auctions, we understand how auction fees work and what homeowners should look for when comparing auction services. We work alongside carefully selected UK auction partners who provide clear pricing and a professional, transparent approach from valuation through to completion.
Our aim is to help you understand your options before making a decision. We’ll explain the auction process, answer your questions and help you determine whether auction is the right route for your property—without pressure or obligation.
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