But at Smart Auction UK, we sell far more than just your standard residential or commercial properties. Our auctions include a vast range of opportunities, from houseboats and parking spaces to listed buildings and entire plots of land. If you're looking for something a little different—or even something you didn’t realise you could buy at auction—here’s a look at some of the unique property types we sell.

1. Houseboats – A Floating Investment

Ever dreamed of living on the water? Houseboats are becoming increasingly popular, whether for full-time living or as an investment opportunity. At Smart Auction UK, we auction houseboats of all sizes, from compact barges to spacious floating homes with all the comforts of a traditional house. Unlike traditional properties, houseboats offer a more flexible and often more affordable way to own a home, and they can be moored in prime locations for a fraction of the cost of nearby houses.

2. Parking Spaces – A Small but Profitable Asset

Believe it or not, parking spaces are in high demand, especially in city centres where parking is scarce. Whether you’re looking to secure your own permanent spot or you’re an investor wanting to generate rental income, buying a parking space at auction can be a lucrative decision. We often sell individual parking bays, entire parking lots, and even underground car parking spaces in prime locations.

3. Garages – More Than Just a Place to Park

A garage might seem like a small purchase, but they hold significant value. Whether used for storage, parking, or even as a small workshop, garages are a great investment. In areas where parking and storage space is at a premium, they can generate strong rental yields or be resold for a profit. Some buyers even convert garages into unique micro-homes or home offices, making them a surprisingly versatile purchase.

4. Land – From Small Plots to Large-Scale Developments

We sell all types of land at auction, whether it’s a small garden plot, farmland, woodland, or even a development site with planning permission. Buying land at auction offers a great opportunity for investors, developers, and individuals looking to build their dream home. Some plots come with existing structures, while others offer blank canvases with endless potential.

5. Listed Buildings – Preserving History with a Unique Investment

Listed buildings often carry a sense of history and character that modern properties simply can’t replicate. While they require special care and adherence to regulations, they can be fantastic investments. At auction, you might find anything from historic cottages and grand manor houses to former churches and industrial heritage sites. If you’ve ever wanted to own a piece of history, buying a listed building at auction could be your chance.

6. Former Pubs, Churches, and Banks – Endless Possibilities

Old pubs, churches, and bank buildings frequently appear in our auctions. While some buyers choose to restore these buildings for their original use, others convert them into unique homes, boutique hotels, restaurants, or office spaces. These properties often have stunning architectural features and can make for truly one-of-a-kind spaces with the right vision.

7. Mixed-Use Buildings – The Best of Both Worlds

Mixed-use properties, which combine residential and commercial spaces, are excellent investment opportunities. These could be anything from a shop with a flat above to an office building with warehouse space. Whether you want to live and work in the same place or rent out multiple parts of the property for different uses, mixed-use buildings can provide diverse income streams.

8. Commercial Spaces – From Shops to Warehouses

Businesses of all kinds need premises, and auctions are a great place to find commercial properties. Whether you’re looking for a high-street shop, an industrial unit, a restaurant, or a retail warehouse, we sell commercial properties of all shapes and sizes. Buying through auction is often quicker and more affordable than dealing with commercial estate agents.

9. Former Schools, Hospitals, and Care Homes

Larger, institutional buildings such as former schools, hospitals, and care homes sometimes appear in our auctions. These properties offer massive redevelopment potential, whether for conversion into apartments, businesses, or even unique residential homes. They often come with substantial land attached, making them an exciting opportunity for those with big ideas.

10. Rural Retreats and Unique Holiday Homes

Looking for a countryside getaway or an off-grid escape? We often auction rural cottages, cabins, and unusual holiday homes in picturesque locations. Whether it’s a small barn conversion, a log cabin, or even a quirky glamping site, there are plenty of unique opportunities available.

Why Buy These Unique Properties at Auction?

Buying these types of properties at auction offers several advantages:

Speed: The sale process is much faster than traditional routes.

Transparency: You know exactly what other buyers are bidding, avoiding long negotiations.

Variety: Auctions offer an incredibly diverse range of properties you won’t always find through estate agents.

Potential for Bargains: With competitive bidding, you could secure a great deal.

At Smart Auction UK, we specialise in selling all types of land and property, from traditional homes to the most unusual and unexpected listings. Whether you’re looking for an investment opportunity, a unique living space, or a hidden gem, our auctions provide an exciting way to buy and sell property.

If you're interested in seeing what’s available, check out our  latest auction listings or  get in touch with our team today! You never know what you might find.

Have a look at our properties for sale here. You can also learn how we can sell property for free!

Got a property to sell? Call us or send us an enquiry.