Struggling to Sell? Why the Modern Method of Auction Could Be Your Plan B That Works

If your property’s been sitting on the market with little or no progress, you’re not alone. Plenty of homeowners find themselves stuck after weeks - or even months - of low offers, no-shows, and endless waiting.

But being stuck doesn’t mean you’re out of options. In fact, there's a powerful alternative that more sellers are turning to: the Modern Method of Auction (MMoA).

At The Auction Experts, we help sellers across the UK turn stalled sales into successful ones using this flexible approach. If you're looking to get moving without compromising on price or security, this might be the Plan B that actually delivers.

What is the Modern Method of Auction?

Unlike traditional auctions, the Modern Method of Auction is held entirely online. It blends the speed and certainty of auction with the broader appeal of the open market, giving your property a serious second chance.

Here’s how it works:

• Your property is marketed just like it would be with a traditional estate agent - online listings, viewings, photos, floorplans.
• Interested buyers bid online within a set auction period, usually 30 days.
• At the end of the auction, the highest bidder pays a non-refundable reservation fee and has 56 days to complete the purchase.

This gives you, the seller, more security, while giving buyers the breathing space of a more traditional completion window.

Why Choose MMoA When Your Sale Is Stuck?

If your home isn’t selling through the usual route, it’s not always about price. More often, it’s about commitment and timing. Here's why the Modern Method of Auction works when the private treaty route stalls:

1. You’ll Attract Serious Buyers

Buyers using the Modern Method know they’re entering a binding process. The reservation fee they pay means you’re far less likely to deal with time-wasters or last-minute dropouts.

2. You Can Still Set a Reserve Price

Worried about accepting less than you’re happy with? Don’t be. Just like with any auction, you set a reserve price - the minimum you’re willing to accept. If bidding doesn’t reach that level, the property won’t sell. You stay in control.

3. No Estate Agency Fees to Pay

This method flips the usual model on its head. Instead of you, the seller, paying fees, the buyer covers the auction fee through their reservation payment. You can sell with zero estate agency fees - and still get the price you want.

4. The Timetable is Clear and Committed

You’re not left wondering if a buyer will sort their mortgage or whether a chain will collapse. The auction ends on a set day. The reservation fee is paid right away. Completion happens within 56 days. That’s a level of certainty few high-street agents can offer.

Is Your Property Suitable for the Modern Method of Auction?

In most cases - yes. This route works well for a wide range of property types across the UK, especially if you’ve already been on the market but not had the result you want.

Ideal candidates include:

• Homes with plenty of viewings but no serious offers
• Properties where buyers keep pulling out or delaying
• Sellers who need to move within a set timeframe
• Homes that are hard to value traditionally, or appeal to a niche market

Even if your home has no major issues, this method can help cut through the noise and focus attention from committed buyers.

What’s the Difference Between Modern and Traditional Auction?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:

Pros and Cons to Consider

Like any sales method, MMoA isn’t perfect for every situation. Here’s a quick look at the ups and downs:

Pros:

• Speed and certainty without rushing the buyer
• Buyer pays the auction fee
• Competitive bidding can push price up
• Suitable for mortgage buyers

Potential Downsides:

• The buyer pays a reservation fee, which can limit interest from price-sensitive buyers
• You still need to have a legal pack prepared (we can help with this)
• While most auctions go smoothly, results aren’t guaranteed - setting the right reserve is key

Let’s Get Your Sale Back on Track

If you’re stuck in limbo and watching the weeks tick by, it’s time to think differently. The Modern Method of Auction offers a flexible, secure and often faster route to getting your property sold - without compromising on your expectations.

At The Auction Experts, we handle the whole process for you, from listing and viewings to auction day and post-sale support. Our team will help you price realistically, market effectively, and guide you through every step with clarity and confidence.

Thinking of switching sales method?

If your property is still on the market, why not ask us if it’s suitable for auction?
We’ll give you honest feedback and explain how the Modern Method could work for you.

Call us on 0330 179 8180  or email hello@theauctionexperts.co.uk to book your free auction appraisal today.