Clive Emson Auctioneers also reports a record breaking 2017. The long established land and property auctioneer catalogued 1,168 lots and achieved sales of £160 million at a success rate of 80 per cent.

Managing Director James Emson said, “It has been a tremendous year for the business – certainly our biggest in nearly 30 years of trading.

“To achieve record sales figures during a time of such uncertainty in the property industry shows just how highly auctions continue to be regarded.

“It is also testament to the skill, dedication and hard work of our team of property specialists who provide a second-to-none service.

“The auction sector’s growth shows no sign of slowing as both vendors and purchasers continue to see excellent value in the transparency of the system and have embraced our traditional and our new online auctions.

“We look forward to 2018 with renewed optimism, determined to maintain our position in the top five of national auction houses.”

James reported growth area trends this year as commercial properties as investments, ground rents, garages and land with potential – as the government seeks more house building across the country.

The company has also paid a record £750,000 to joint auctioneers during 2017 – the money going straight back into the industry through the link with estate agents needing auction facilities.

Auction highlights from the independent firm, which works with 850 high street estate agents across southern England, included:

The 19th century iconic Martello Tower, with residential potential, situated in a car park in Dymchurch, Kent, sold for £145,000 – twice the guide price.

Clive Emson’s first sales of 2018 is Tuesday 6th February at the Clive Emson Conference Centre, Detling, Maidstone, Kent.