AN online auction featuring Wirral properties raised £1.5m in sales, with some selling for 'significantly above the guide price', say the organisers.

The Smith & Sons event on July 10 featured a 'broad range' of 27 properties. Terraced and semi-detached investment homes, to land and commercial developments, went under the hammer.

According to the company, two 'stand-out' properties in Birkenhead were said to have 'sold significantly above the guide', with bidders recognising the 'scope and potential presented by both'.

A plot of land attracted fierce bidding as did two houses requiring refurbishment and all realised a sale far in excess of the guide.

Chris Johnson, auctioneer at Smith and Sons said: "There were some strong lots available and we saw good sales for over half of the properties.

"This remains an uncertain time for the property market as we change government and interest rates remain high and prospective buyers are cautious in how they move forward with their next purchase.

"The auction room can often reflect what’s taking place within the wider market, and I believe that this is undoubtedly the case here."

He added: "Auction remains a solid route to buy and sell property, where the process is transparent and deals completed within a given timeframe.

"We would encourage anyone looking for a quick and simple sale, particularly for properties subject to probate, to consider the auction route and we are now taking entries for our September sale."