Auctioneer, seller, and approved third-party bids explained

Also known as off-the-wall bidding

To ensure a fair and transparent auction process, bidders should be aware that auctioneer, seller, and approved third-party bidding may take place below the reserve price. This is sometimes called off-the-wall bidding.

What does this mean?

Off‑the‑wall bidding refers to bids placed by the auctioneer on behalf of the seller when the bidding has not yet reached the seller’s preagreed reserve price. These bids do not come from another buyer; they are a long-established and lawful part of UK property auctions, designed to maintain momentum and ensure the seller’s minimum price is protected.

Important safeguards

• Off‑the‑wall bidding are only made below the reserve price.
• Once the reserve is met, no further off‑the‑wall bidding is permitted.
• This practice is fully compliant with UK auction law, including the Sale of Land by Auction Act 1867, and follows guidance from Propertymark and The Property Ombudsman requiring transparency and fairness. 
• Full disclosure is set out in our auction terms and conditions, bidder registration wording, and auction catalogue.

Why it’s used

Off‑the‑wall bidding provides a fair and consistent experience for all bidders by ensuring the property is not sold for less than the seller’s confidential reserve. It also helps create a smooth bidding environment, allowing genuine bidders to reach the point where the reserve may be met.