NINE properties, together worth £1,824,000, went under the hammer at a York estate agent's spring auction.

Hunters Property Group said more than 300 people attended the event in York, a record number, who snapped up more former businesses and retail units for residential conversions than ever before.

John Waterhouse, chief auctioneer and director at Hunter's York office, said: "Each auction seems to attract more and more people, and the spring auction was no exception. We had a number of unusual lots including building plots in Easingwold, Alne and Osbaldwick all of which secured sales prices much higher than we expected.

"I think many vendors are turning to auction to sell the more unusual - and often harder to value - properties. There are a number of advantages as the property exchanges on the night so it is a swift and hassle free process. We also find many are realising higher than expected results as we often see a bidding "fury" on many properties - something that was very apparent on unique opportunities such as Fulford Mews in York."

However, he issued a word of caution to future potential buyers.

"Auctions are not for everyone. If you don't know the value, have structural issues with the site, want a quick sale and are not risk averse it could certainly be for you.

"But, one word of advice - do your research and choose those auctions that are well attended, get proven results and secure the most sales per lots on the night to ensure you get the best results."

Hunters was formed in 1992 and now employs 195 staff across its ten northern offices, offering residential sales, new homes, commercial, lettings, management, survey, mortgage, auctions, conveyancing and overseas homes services.

Updated: 11:14 Wednesday, March 29, 2006