What costs are involved with purchasing a property at auction?
Posted on 19th March 2024
Purchasing a property at auction can be the best way to purchase a property for some people, such as investors, often offering the chance to snag a deal or find a unique property that might not be available on the traditional market. However, our Auction Conveyancing Solicitors would explain that it is essential to understand the full costs involved in this process. The fees and expenses associated with buying a property at auction can vary depending on the auction house, and specific property, but there are common fees and costs that bidders should prepare for before they make the decision to purchase via auction.
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Our Auction Conveyancing Solicitors have provided a breakdown of the typical fees and costs involved:
Buyer’s Premium
Many auction houses charge a buyers’ premium, often a percentage of the final bid price, which is added to your winning bid to determine the total purchase price. This fee is usually intended to cover the administration charges incurred by the auction house, and this fee is paid directly to the auction house, not the seller. The rate can vary, often ranging from 5% to 10%.
Administration Fees
Auctions may also charge an administration fee, or may indeed charge an administration fee, which covers the costs of running the auction and processing the sale. This fee can be a fixed amount and differs from one auction house to another. It may also be calculated as a percentage of the purchase price, as explained above.
Deposit
Upon winning a bid, you will likely need to pay a deposit. This is usually a percentage of the purchase price (often around 10%) and is payable immediately or shortly after the auction concludes. This deposit is non-refundable if you fail to complete the purchase
Legal Fees
Buyers should engage an auction conveyancing solicitor to handle the legal aspects of the purchase. Legal fees can vary widely based on the complexity of the transaction and the rates of the professionals involved. Typically, sellers of auction properties can expect to pay legal fees in stages, especially if instructing our auction conveyancing solicitors at MG Legal: a fixed fee for preparing the legal pack, and a further fixed fee if we are instructed to deal with the conveyancing process.
Stamp Duty
Depending on your personal circumstances, you may be liable for stamp duty land tax, which is based on the purchase price of the property. The rate and thresholds for stamp duty vary can be found on gov.uk, here.
Survey and Valuation Fees
Before bidding, you may want to commission a survey or valuation of the property to understand its condition and value. These services come at a cost, which depends on the type of survey and the property’s size and location. Such a survey or valuation is usually arranged before bidding, as once a bid has been placed, it is generally binding.
Financing Costs
If you are financing your purchase with a mortgage or equivalent style loan, there will be associated costs, including arrangement fees, valuation fees (if not covered above), and mortgage broker fees, if you use one.
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Insurance
Once you have won a bid, the property is typically your responsibility, meaning you will usually need to arrange buildings insurance from the day of the auction.
Renovation and Repair Costs
Auction properties are often in need of renovation or repairs. It is crucial to factor in these potential costs when bidding, as they can significantly affect the overall financial – and time- investment required.
Ongoing Costs
Finally, you need to factor in ongoing costs of property ownership, including property taxes, utility bills, maintenance, and if applicable, leasehold or management fees, if the property has these.
Purchasing a property at auction can offer significant opportunities, but it is vital to go into the process prepared regarding the potential costs. Budgeting for these expenses in advance can help ensure that you make a wise investment and avoid any unwelcome financial surprises. Our auction conveyancing solicitors can assist you with the sale or purchase of your auction property, all on a fixed fee basis. To obtain a fixed fee quote, contact our team using the contact us box below, and our conveyancing auction solicitors will be in touch within one working hour to provide you with a quote.
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