Bidding for renovation properties at auction
For more information, see the main article about Renovation.
The term ‘renovation’ refers to the process of returning something to a good state of repair. In the construction industry, renovation refers to the process of improving or modernising an old, damaged or defective building.
It is common that buildings requiring renovation work are sold at auction.
Bidding for renovation works can be daunting, and careful preparation should be undertaken to be sure that the project has a chance of being both feasible and profitable should the bid be successful.
It is sensible to sit in on a different auction before attending the auction for the property of interest. This is useful in order to get an understanding for how the process works. The property itself should be thoroughly researched before the auction, to avoid the chances of being surprised by potentially costly issues post-purchase.
The regular conveyancing work should be commissioned in order to check the site boundaries, titles and raise any questions with the vendor’s solicitor. It might be deemed worthwhile to commission a full survey. However, this will all involve a financial investment prior to the auction, which may not result in a purchase, so the process should not be undertaken lightly.
Financial arrangements will need to be in place before the auction, to ensure the required 10% deposit is available on the day of the auction when, if successful, contracts will be signed. The remaining 90% is usually required within 28 days. It will be necessary to check the required payment methods of the auctioneers to ensure compliance.
It is also worth having a ‘ceiling’ amount that represents the maximum figure that will be bid on the property, to avoid getting carried away on the day and committing to a higher amount.
[edit] Find out more
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.