At Auction House Sussex & Hampshire - 2025 brought about an exciting new working relationship, with the University of Sussex.
We were delighted to be instructed by University of Sussex to bring to auction ten substantial properties, following a competitive and thorough tender process.
The University undertook a rigorous selection procedure to ensure, whoever they chose to bring the lots to market, would uphold the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and diligence - qualities essential to achieving the true market value of each property.
As Auction House Sussex & Hampshire, run by Austin Gray LLP, we were able to demonstrate that we were the right team for the job! With our extensive experience - including previous successful University collaborations - we were well positioned to manage the complexities of this high-profile disposal.
Our commitment to going above and beyond calling upon our 50+ years of property expertise, ensured we could successfully expedite each sale. Indeed, our expertise proved crucial given eight of the lots had ‘sui generis use class’, which brought with it specific funding challenges and planning issues for change of use to residential homes. Our guidance was vital in steering potential buyers through these intricacies.
In agreement with the University, we implemented a phased disposal programme to avoid saturating the market and to give each property its moment to shine! With a combined auction guide value in excess of £8,000,000, the importance of a robust and targeted marketing strategy could not be overstated. This was borne out with some lots achieving a sale price – 25% over the auction guide price!
Testimony, from Helen Power-Hosking - Head of Commercial Services at Sussex;
“We have been delighted to work with the team at Auction House & Austin Gray. Their commitment, professionalism and knowledge of the local market has enabled them, to confidently lead on the disposal of the University properties”
Brought to Market:
January 2025 Auction
- Clifton Road – Vacant unbroken freehold terraced property arranged as 4 flats
- Ewhurst Road – Vacant freehold 3-bedroom terraced house
March 2025 Auction
- 8 & 10 Windlesham Road – Substantial 10-bedroom freehold detached property
- 10 & 12 York Avenue – Substantial 7-bedroom freehold semi-detached property
- 49 Florence Road – Substantial detached double-fronted 12-room property
June 2025 Auction
- 14 Florence Road – Substantial 7-bedroom semi-detached property
- 13 Victoria Road – Double-fronted 9-bedroom freehold terraced property
July 2025 Auction
- Garage Rear Of 16 Florence Road – Single freehold garage.
September 2025 Auction
- 12 Florence Road – Substantial freehold semi-detached property arranged as 4 flats
Given the unique & desirable nature of the University properties, we were inundated with enquiries, viewing requests & ultimately multiple registered bidders, for each property. The University expressed a strong preference for these homes to return to local family ownership and occupation. We are pleased to report that in many cases, this goal was successfully achieved, with the properties now in the hands of new, long-term custodians.
If you too have a property to sell which you anticipate by its nature, will present its own complexities – be it a studio flat through to a large portfolio - we would be delighted to assist in expediating the sale on your behalf – so do get in touch. Adam, Kate & the team at Auction House & Austin Gray LLP are here to assist in achieving the best possible sale price for your property.
