Willmotts with Andrews & Robertson hold seven auctions a year of both residential and commercial properties: this guide is designed to assist those who are new to the process.

1. Catalogues
Are published approximately 2 weeks prior to the sale and may be obtained by
a) Calling the catalogue request line +44 (0)9067 360 014.
b) On-line request form
c) For an annual charge you can subscribe to our priority mailing list: an application form is printed on the page opposite the inside back cover of the catalogue or you can telephone Willmotts +44 (0)20 8748 6644.
d) The catalogue, once published, can also be viewed on-line.
e) Dates of the forthcoming auctions are published on the back cover of the current auction catalogue or see our list of future auctions.
Read through the catalogue and identify those Lots that you are interested in. A list of properties is found at the front of the catalogue, which identifies the Lots by both description e.g. Vacant House/Commercial Property and also lists the areas they are situated in.

2. Guide Prices
These are listed on a separate sheet in the catalogue and are a general indication of the current level of the vendor’s intention as to the reserve price. The sale price is usually expected to exceed the guide price and prospective purchasers should check with Willmotts for any updates.

3. Viewing's
The times and dates are published on a separate sheet in the catalogue. There is no need to book for these block viewing's; it is recommended that you attend promptly as the property will be open for approximately 15 minutes. A number of Lots have Joint Agents in which case you should contact them direct for arrangements to view.
NB. There are no arrangements for viewing tenanted properties unless specified.

4. Notice to Bidders
This is printed on the page facing Lot 1 or download a copy and buyers are deemed to have read and accepted this.

5. Legal Documents
Packs are generally available and should contain the Special Conditions, Title deeds, Office Copy Entries, Leases (where applicable) and Searches. Copies may be obtained from Willmotts for a small charge and can be sent by either post or e-mail. It is advisable that you send these to your solicitors. All legal packs are available for inspection in the auction room. You may contact the vendors' solicitors direct: their details are printed in the blue conditions booklet in the catalogue or can also be viewed on-line.

6. Finance
Arrange your finance with your bank or building society and have the property surveyed if required. Special arrangement for surveyors can be made by contacting Willmotts direct. A number of financial companies who specialise in auction properties advertise within the catalogue.

7. Offers
Generally sellers are prepared to consider pre-auction sales and offers can be made by phone, fax, e-mail or in writing. Offers should be unconditional and you should ensure that you are in a position to exchange contracts. Acceptance is at the discretion of the vendors and if accepted there is no commitment on either side until a legal binding contract is exchanged and a lot will not be withdrawn from the auction until then.

8. Proxy / Telephone Bidding
If you are unable to attend the sale you can arrange to bid on the phone, on the Internet or by a Proxy Bid. Contact Willmotts for further information on these services.

9. Proxy / Telephone Bidding
Contact Willmotts the day before the auction for an update on the lot your are interested in as to whether it is still included in the sale or if there have been any amendments to the details or guide price.