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Nearly 50% of all property sales will take place without the help of an estate agent by 2010, the Interactive Media in Retail Group predict - and a property auction is one of the fastest growing alternatives when it comes to selling your home.

With the current property downturn, many homeowners are looking for different ways to sell their homes. Here are five reasons why you should consider selling at auction.

1. It's quick

Before the auction all the paperwork should be completed, meaning the house is ready for sale on the day. After a successful auction the sale could go through in less than 20 days, if the auctioneer is using the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors' Common Auction Conditions.

2. It's ideal for unusual properties

At an auction, alongside the 'ordinary' properties, you will find all kinds of other properties. If your home is in need of some renovation, an auction is an ideal place to sell, as many bidders will be interested in homes they can take on as projects. Also, homes that are unusual or unique, which may be difficult to value conventionally, are much easier to sell at auction.

3. The sale is guaranteed

All too often house sales fall through, even at the last moment. However, if the sale is through an auction, the home is not sold 'subject to contract'. When the hammer falls the successful bidder is legally bound to complete the sale. The buyer will usually have to pay 10% of the price on the day of purchase.

4. The auction will be advertised

Auction houses advertise in the local and national press, online and sometimes on the television. This ensures the property you want to sell reaches as large an audience as possible, increasing your chances of sale.

5. The price will be right

With the option to set a guide price, you should not be disappointed in the sale price. If you are selling a unique, unusual or renovated home, you may find that the buying price exceeds your expectations. Specialist buyers in the audience are likely to push the price up.