Buyer FAQs
Buying at Auction
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to register to bid?
What ID must I provide?
By law we will require two proofs of ID – one photographic and the other proof of address less than three months old. Proof of funds will also be asked for at the time of registration. Without the above you will not be able to bid.
What are the auction fees?
The auction fees are payable on all property and land lots. This will be payable upon the fall of the gavel as contracts are exchanged. This will be paid at the same time as the deposit if you are the highest bidder on a lot, before leaving the auction venue. The amount payable will be specified in the lot description.
How much is the deposit?
Usually the Purchaser shall pay a deposit of 5% and auction fees of 2% +VAT inclusive (or a minimum of £5,500 +VAT) as contracts are exchanged. The purchaser is legally bound to buy and the vendor is legally bound to sell the Property/Lot.
Can I make a pre-auction offer?
Yes. Any offers made before the auction will always be put to the vendor. If you are really interested in a lot then of course a pre-auction offer is a good idea. Ensure you have thoroughly read the legal pack before offering and if the offer is accepted the sale will exchange before the auction and will proceed under the same, auction conditions.
What is a proxy bid?
Here you will advise a representative as to your maximum bid by completing our Proxy Bidding form and the auctioneer will bid on your behalf up to your maximum. They will always endeavour to secure the property for you, either at, or below your maximum bid if possible. If the bidding in the room exceeds your maximum, then you proxy bid would end.
What is a telephone bid?
Here you will advise a representative as to your maximum bid by completing our Proxy Bidding form and the auctioneer will bid on your behalf up to your maximum. They will always endeavour to secure the property for you, either at, or below your maximum bid if possible. If the bidding in the room exceeds your maximum, then you proxy bid would end.
What is Connect Realtime® Bidding?
What happens if I’m the highest bidder?
You will have already signed to say that you are happy for us to sign the memorandum of sale on your behalf to allow the exchange of contracts after the fall of the ‘virtual gavel.’ After this has been done one of our team will be in touch once the auction has finished to take payment of the lot deposit and buyers’ premium. Once this has been completed contracts will be sent to your solicitor as well as the sellers with completion usually to take place 28 working days later (or as varied by the Special Conditions of Sale) under the supervision of your solicitor. As soon as the hammer falls there is a binding contract of sale. The property is at your insurable risk from this point.
What is due diligence?
This means that you have done everything you can, in terms of research, before committing to a property or land purchase. This may include viewing the property, commissioning a survey, asking a solicitor to review the legal pack etc.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit/debit cards or bank transfers.
What happens if I cannot complete on a purchase?
If you don’t exchange on the date set you will be given what’s called ‘Notice to Complete’ – This will last for 10 days and will incur a daily charge, of which the amount can be found in your contract. Failure to complete at all with result in a forfeit of your deposit as well as your buyer’s premium plus any shortfall once the property or land is re-auctioned and sold.
What are the main types of land?
The main types of land include residential land, commercial land, agricultural land, industrial land, and recreational land. Residential land is designated for housing and living spaces. Commercial land is used for business activities such as retail stores, offices, and hotels. Agricultural land is used for farming and livestock. Industrial land is allocated for factories, warehouses, and other industrial activities. Recreational land includes parks, playgrounds, and other leisure spaces.
What should I consider before buying land?
Before buying land, consider its location, zoning regulations, utility access, topography, environmental restrictions, and future development plans in the area. It’s crucial to understand the intended use of the land and ensure it aligns with your goals. Additionally, perform a thorough inspection to check for any issues such as soil quality, drainage, or potential hazards.
What should buyers know before participating in a land auction?
Buyers should thoroughly research the land and its market value before participating in an auction. Attend open houses or view the property if possible. Review all auction terms and conditions, including deposit requirements and closing timelines. Be prepared to act quickly, as auctions typically require immediate financial commitment from the winning bidder. Understanding these factors can help buyers make informed and confident bids.
What is a land survey, and why is it necessary?
A land survey is a detailed measurement and mapping of a piece of land conducted by a licensed surveyor. It determines property boundaries, identifies any encroachments or easements, and provides information on the land’s topography and features. A land survey is necessary to ensure that the land’s legal description is accurate, prevent disputes with neighbours, and comply with zoning and building regulations.
What financing options are available for buying land?
What is the difference between land with planning permission and land without planning permission?
Land with planning permission has received official approval from the local planning authority to be developed or altered in a specific way. This could include building residential or commercial properties, or changing the land’s use. Land without planning permission has not received this approval, meaning any intended development or change of use is not yet permitted and would require a formal application process to obtain the necessary permissions.
What is zoning, and why is it important when buying land?
Zoning refers to the regulations set by local governments that dictate how land can be used. These regulations classify land into different zones such as residential, commercial, agricultural, or industrial. Zoning is important because it affects what can be built on the land and how it can be used. Understanding the zoning laws for a piece of land ensures that your intended use is permissible and helps avoid legal complications.