Conditional versus unconditional property auctions
23 Mar 2026
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Admin
Unconditional
Exchange often happens immediately; you are on the hook for deposit and performance like a traditional exchange without cooling off.
Conditional (modern method)
Some sales reserve exchange for a reservation period after the winning bid, allowing finance or searches to complete. Read the clock — miss it and you lose reservation fees.
Why it matters
Do not assume every online catalogue uses the same structure. The front page should state the method in plain language; if it does not, ask before you register.