How to Choose the Right Solicitor When Selling Your Home by Modern Method of Auction

Selling your home through the Modern Method of Auction can be a good move if you’re looking for a quicker sale and serious buyers. But there’s one part of the process that often gets overlooked - choosing the right solicitor. Unlike a traditional sale, auction timelines are tighter and the legal paperwork needs to be spot on from the start. Picking the wrong solicitor can lead to unnecessary stress and delays, while the right one can help the process run smoothly from listing to completion.

If you’re planning to sell your house by auction, here’s how to find a solicitor who understands how auction property sales work and what to look for before you commit.

Why the right solicitor matters for auction sales

When you sell using the Modern Method of Auction, your solicitor plays a central role in preparing the auction legal pack. This includes all the key documents buyers need to review before bidding. This includes title deeds, property information forms, searches, and any special conditions of sale. Once the auction ends, you’ll usually have 28 days to exchange and complete, so everything must be legally sound and ready to go.

A solicitor with auction experience will understand the pace and requirements of the process, ensuring you don’t miss vital steps that could put the sale at risk.

Look for experience with UK auction property sales

Not all conveyancers handle auction sales regularly, and that’s where problems can arise. Ask potential solicitors how often they deal with auction properties, including Modern Method of Auction transactions. The process is different from standard conveyancing, and you’ll want someone who knows the format, timelines, and legal terms inside out.

If your solicitor isn’t confident with auction work, you could face delays when preparing your legal pack or complications once the sale goes through. The Auction Experts often see sellers benefit from using specialists who understand the auction process from both sides.

Ask about turnaround times and communication

Speed is key in an auction sale. You’ll need your auction legal pack completed and available to buyers before your property goes live. Ask your solicitor how quickly they can prepare this and what their typical timescales are. Clear communication is just as important - you’ll want a solicitor who updates you promptly and answers your questions without jargon.

If you ever feel unsure about what’s happening, you can always reach out to The Auction Experts on 0330 179 8180 or email hello@theauctionexperts.co.uk for guidance on what’s reasonable to expect during the process.

Check the fees before you commit

Auction legal work can vary in cost depending on how complex the property is. Some solicitors charge a fixed fee for auction sales, while others bill hourly. Ask for a full breakdown in writing so there are no surprises later. Remember, your solicitor will also handle completion once the auction ends, so make sure their quote includes that stage too.

Choosing purely on price can be risky - a cheaper solicitor might not have the experience needed for auction-specific legal work. It’s better to invest in someone who understands the process and can act fast when needed.

What your solicitor should prepare for the auction

Your solicitor will need to compile several documents before your property can be listed for auction. These usually include:

• Official copies of the title register and plan
• EPC and property information forms
• Local authority and environmental searches
• Any leasehold or management details (if applicable)
• Details of fixtures, fittings, and special conditions of sale

These make up your auction legal pack - the key information potential buyers will review before deciding to bid. The sooner this is complete, the faster your property can be promoted by The Auction Experts to serious, ready-to-bid buyers.

Questions to ask before instructing a solicitor

To make sure you’re choosing the right legal partner, ask these simple but important questions:

• How many auction sales have you handled recently?
• Do you work with sellers using the Modern Method of Auction?
• What’s your average turnaround time for an auction legal pack?
• Can you provide updates by email or phone quickly?
• Is your fee fixed or based on time spent?

If they can answer confidently and clearly, it’s a good sign they understand how to support you throughout your auction journey.

The bottom line

Selling your home through the Modern Method of Auction can be a straightforward, secure, and transparent way to move on but only if your legal side is handled efficiently. Choosing a solicitor who knows how UK auction property transactions work will help keep things moving smoothly and protect your interests.

If you’re ready to sell your house by auction and want guidance on finding a solicitor who understands the process, contact The Auction Experts today.

Call 0330 179 8180 or email hello@theauctionexperts.co.uk for friendly, professional advice from our team who’ve helped hundreds of UK home sellers achieve fast, secure sales through auction.

In the meantime, we've answered some of your common questions about choosing the right solicitor when selling your home by the modern method of auction.

FAQs

Do I need a solicitor before listing my property for auction?

Yes, you’ll need a solicitor early in the process to prepare your auction legal pack before your home can be listed for sale.

How long does it take to prepare an auction legal pack?

Typically, it takes one to two weeks if your solicitor is experienced with auction property sales, but this can vary depending on searches and title details.

Can I use my usual conveyancer for an auction sale?

You can, but make sure they’re familiar with auction timelines and the Modern Method of Auction. If not, it’s safer to use a solicitor who specialises in this area.

What happens after my property sells at auction?

Your solicitor will handle the exchange, deposit, and completion paperwork. Most Modern Method of Auction sales complete within 28 days.