Selling a property can be challenging at the best of times, but for Keith, the sale of 15 Fremantle Place in Stoke, Plymouth came at a particularly emotional and time-sensitive moment. As a first-time auction seller, Keith turned to Auction House South West for guidance and support — a decision that ultimately resulted in an outstanding sale price and a stress-free experience.
The property itself is a freehold mid-terrace house, dating back to the early 20th century. Arranged over three floors, the house comprises an entrance hall, sitting room and dining room on the ground floor, a kitchen/diner and basement on the lower ground floor, and two bedrooms with a bathroom on the first floor. Externally, the property benefits from an enclosed rear courtyard with double doors providing off-road parking. While full refurbishment was required throughout, the property’s potential was clear.
A sale driven by circumstance and time pressure
Keith had lived in the property for many years, during which time he also became the primary carer for his mother. To allow her to remain living comfortably in the home, a lifetime mortgage had been arranged to fund necessary adaptations. Following his mother’s passing at the age of 90, Keith was faced with the requirement to repay the mortgage — including accrued interest — within a strict 12-month period.
“That was when I realised I couldn’t afford to go down the traditional estate agent route,” Keith explained. “If you’re in a chain and something falls through, the delays can be devastating. I simply didn’t have that luxury.”
Although Keith initially explored selling through local estate agents, concerns around chains, uncertainty and timeframes led him to consider an alternative route. Acting on the recommendation of a close friend, he contacted Auction House South West and was introduced to Olivia, the Regional Manager and Auctioneer who would guide him through the process.
“That meeting was really the turning point,” Keith said. “From that moment on, I felt I was in safe hands.”
A fully supported auction journey
As someone new to the auction process, Keith admits he had some initial concerns. However, those were quickly eased by the level of care, professionalism and communication he received.
“The service I got was absolutely fantastic,” he said. “Everyone at Auction House South West went above and beyond. They organised the solicitors, helped with the legal pack, and took all the pressure off me.”
Keith was particularly impressed by the way the team handled everything on his behalf, from viewings to legal preparation, allowing him to focus on collecting personal items from the property and dealing with other matters.
“Communication was 100%,” he added. “If I rang with a question or concern, I got a response straight away. I never felt forgotten or left chasing people, which makes such a difference when you’re selling a house.”
Auction day: A result beyond expectations
After inspecting the property, Olivia advised a guide price of £90,000 with a reserve of £98,000. While Keith was hopeful for a good outcome, he never anticipated just how strong the bidding would be.
“I was watching the livestream auction online,” he recalled. “Once it met the reserve and kept climbing, I was already pleased. Then it just kept going.”
As competitive bidding gathered pace, Olivia’s skill as an auctioneer was clear to see.
“She has this incredible ability to encourage bidders — in the nicest possible way,” Keith said. “You could actually see it happening in real time.”
When the hammer finally fell at £120,000, Keith was stunned.
“That was way beyond what I ever thought it would make. It really shows the power of auction and the expertise of the auctioneer.”
A stress-free outcome at a difficult time
Beyond the financial success, what mattered most to Keith was the peace of mind the process gave him during a difficult period in his life.
“I’d just lost my mum, and that was incredibly hard. The last thing you want is more stress piled on top,” he said. “Auction House South West dealt with everything — I didn’t have to worry anymore.”
Keith appreciated that he never felt rushed or pressured, despite being on a tight deadline.
“I had 12 months to sell, and at no point did I feel pushed into anything. Everything was explained clearly and handled professionally.”
A Wholehearted Recommendation.
Looking back, Keith says he would not hesitate to sell with Auction House South West again — and only wishes he had contacted them sooner.
“If I had to go through the process again, I’d go straight to Auction House South West,” he said. “If any of my friends were thinking about selling by auction, I’d recommend them without a second thought.”
He describes the team as approachable, supportive and genuinely invested in their clients.
“It feels a bit like a family. You’re well looked after, and nothing is too much trouble. Everything I thought would be problematic turned out to be easy.”
Keith’s successful sale at the October 2025 Auction House South West Livestream Auction is a perfect example of how auction can deliver certainty, speed and exceptional results — especially for sellers facing tight deadlines or complex circumstances.
For Keith, selling 15 Fremantle Place was not just about achieving a fantastic price; it was about trust, reassurance and knowing he had chosen the right team at the right time.
