March 2025 saw a modest uplift in auction activity, but softer sales rates and a widening regional divide paint a mixed picture of market momentum, a leading auciton platform has revealed.

According to the latest data from Essential Information Group (EIG), the number of residential lots offered at auction rose by 7.8% year-on-year in March, driven in part by the traditional end-of-year surge to finalise transactions.

However, this increase in supply did not translate into more sales. Lots sold dipped by 1.3% year-on-year and the overall success rate fell to 68.2% – down almost 6% from March 2024.

Despite the lower conversion rate, the total raised edged up by 4.8% to £379.6 million, hinting at stronger pricing and targeted buyer demand in the residential sector.

Stark regional differences

The South-West emerged as the top performer, with a 14.5% rise in lots sold and a staggering 43.7% jump in the total revenue raised. London also fared well with an 18.1% increase in supply and a 12% increase in revenue.

Conversely, the North-East experienced a steep downturn, with residential lots sold plunging 33.9% and capital raised falling by 28%, reflecting both lower stock levels and weaker demand.

Elsewhere, Scotland recorded a marked improvement in sale rates of 65% and value of residential properties rising more than 25%. Northern Ireland also had impressive figures in terms of lots offered, sold and revenue raised, while Wales saw marginal increases too.

EIG Managing Director, David Sandeman, concluded: “Overall, the first quarter of 2025 revealed a market characterised by cautious buyer behaviour and notable regional divergence.

“Despite softer conversion rates, total raised continues to grow – up 5.1% in the quarter. With residential continuing to lead the way and commercial showing patchier results, the data shows underlying strength in buyer appetite for the right opportunities.”