How the Modern Method of Auction Helps Sellers Avoid Fall-Throughs and Chains

If you’re selling a property in England or Wales, chances are you’ve either experienced a sale falling through or you’re worried about it happening. Long chains, nervous buyers and changing market conditions can all derail a sale weeks or even months down the line. This is one of the key reasons why more homeowners and executors are turning to the Modern Method of Auction as a more secure way to sell.

In this article, we explain how the Modern Method of Auction works, why it helps reduce fall-throughs and chains, and when it could be the right option for your property.

The problem with traditional property sales

The traditional estate agent route relies heavily on goodwill and momentum. A buyer can agree a price, instruct solicitors and still walk away with very little consequence. Surveys, mortgage issues, gazumping or a break in the chain can all cause deals to collapse.

For private homeowners, this often means wasted time and stress. For executors and probate sellers, it can delay estate administration and create additional pressure at an already difficult time.

This is where the Modern Method of Auction offers a different approach.

What is the Modern Method of Auction?

The Modern Method of Auction is a conditional auction process that combines the structure of an auction with the flexibility of a private treaty sale. Properties are marketed with a fixed price or guide price, and once a buyer’s offer is accepted, they pay a reservation fee to secure the property.

This commitment significantly changes buyer behaviour.

Unlike traditional auctions, buyers have time to arrange finance and complete legal work, making it suitable for a wider audience, including mortgage buyers. Unlike estate agent sales, buyers are financially committed from the outset.

How the Modern Method of Auction reduces fall-throughs

One of the biggest advantages for sellers is certainty. When a buyer commits to a property through the Modern Method of Auction, they are far less likely to walk away without good reason.

Here’s why fall-throughs are reduced:

• Buyer commitment from day one
  Buyers pay a non-refundable reservation fee, which means they have a genuine reason to proceed.

• Clear timescales
  The process runs to a defined timeline, reducing delays and uncertainty.

• Upfront transparency
  Legal packs are prepared early, helping buyers make informed decisions before committing.

At The Auction Experts we see significantly fewer failed transactions compared to traditional sales because buyers understand their obligations before they reserve a property.

How chains are avoided or simplified

Chains are one of the most common reasons for sales collapsing. With the Modern Method of Auction, many buyers are chain-free investors or motivated purchasers who are ready to move quickly.

Even when a buyer does have a related sale, their financial commitment means they are far more focused on resolving issues rather than pulling out. For sellers, this reduces the risk of being caught in a long or fragile chain.

Why this matters for probate and executor sales

Executors have a legal duty to act in the best interests of the estate. A sale that drags on or falls through can create complications with beneficiaries and delay distributions.

The Modern Method of Auction offers:

• A transparent sale process

• Strong evidence of market value

• Reduced risk of aborted sales

This makes it an increasingly popular option for probate properties, especially where condition or location might deter traditional buyers.

When the Modern Method of Auction works best

While it’s not right for every property, it works particularly well for:

• Properties that need modernisation

• Probate and inherited homes

• Sellers who value certainty over speculation

• Situations where speed matters but flexibility is still needed

Why specialist knowledge matters

Not all auction services are the same. Many high-street agents offer the Modern Method of Auction as an add-on, without fully understanding how to price, market or manage buyer expectations. The Auction Experts focus exclusively on auction-led sales. This means better guidance, stronger marketing and realistic pricing strategies designed to attract committed buyers.

If you want to discuss whether the Modern Method of Auction could help you avoid fall-throughs and chains, speak to our specialists who live and breathe this method of sale.

Call 0330 179 8180 or email hello@theauctionexperts.co.uk

If you’re worried about your sale falling through or being held up by a chain, now is the time to explore a more secure option. Contact The Auction Experts today for a no-obligation discussion about whether the Modern Method of Auction is right for your property.

In the meantime, we've answered some of your common questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Modern Method of Auction guarantee a sale?

No method can guarantee a sale, but buyer commitment is significantly higher than with traditional estate agent sales.

Can buyers still use a mortgage?

Yes. One of the key benefits is that mortgage buyers can still participate.

Is it suitable for probate properties?

Yes. It’s particularly popular with executors due to transparency and reduced fall-through risk.

Is it faster than a normal sale?

In many cases, yes. Defined timescales and committed buyers help keep transactions moving.