The Modern Method of Sale

A Smarter, Faster, and More Secure Way to Move

At Pacey Wingent Dickson, we believe property sales should be transparent, efficient, and fair for everyone involved. That's why we often recommend the Modern Method of Sale — a contemporary approach that combines the best parts of traditional estate agency with the certainty of auction.

It's a fresh, flexible alternative that delivers speed and security, without the high pressure or complexity of a traditional auction.

🔍 What Is the Modern Method of Sale?

The Modern Method of Sale is a digital auction process designed for the open market. Your property is marketed in the usual way — with professional photography, video, and full online exposure — but with a fixed timescale and commitment from both buyer and seller once the winning bid is accepted.

It gives sellers confidence their sale will progress quickly, and buyers peace of mind that they won't be gazumped.

✨ Benefits for Sellers

• Speed with control – You set the reserve price, timescale, and terms.
• Serious buyers only – Every bidder is pre-qualified and must pay a reservation fee, showing genuine intent to proceed.
• No lengthy chains – Fixed timeframes for exchange and completion keep things moving smoothly.
• Competitive bidding – Online visibility often attracts multiple buyers, helping you achieve the best market price.
• Transparency – You see every bid in real time — there's no mystery or hidden negotiation.

🤝 Benefits for Buyers

• Fair and open process – You can see the current bid level and make informed decisions.
• Security – Once your offer is accepted and the reservation fee is paid, the seller can't accept other offers.
• Time to arrange finances – Unlike a traditional auction, you typically have up to 56 days to complete, giving flexibility for mortgage buyers.
• Confidence – Every property is fully disclosed with legal packs and searches available upfront, reducing surprises later.

🕒 How It Works

1. We launch your property across all major portals and our database of active buyers.
2. Bidding opens online for a set period — usually 14 to 28 days.
3. Interested buyers register and place bids in real time.
4. When the timer ends, the highest qualifying bid wins and the buyer pays a reservation fee to secure exclusivity.
5. Both parties move to exchange and completion within the agreed timescale.

💡 Why Sellers and Buyers Are Embracing It

The Modern Method of Sale is growing in popularity because it offers the clarity and pace of an auction with the comfort and flexibility of private treaty. It's a genuine win-win: sellers achieve strong, committed offers, and buyers enjoy a fair, open environment that protects their investment.