MERSEYSIDE estate agency Whitegates is entering the property auction market.

The business aims to challenge the two biggest players in the local auction market – Sutton Kersh and Venmore.

Whitegates directors Victoria James and Debbie Taylor believe the current services offered by Whitegates will be enhanced by the addition of regular auctions, keeping them up to date with current market trends.

Ms Taylor, along with her husband David Taylor, currently owns and manages the Walton Vale branch. Mr Taylor said: “Our aim is to provide more options to clients in the face of an ever- changing market place.”

Ian James will be Whitegates’ in-house auctioneer, bringing a wealth of expertise to the table, having been involved in the property industry for more than 20 years.

Both Kersh and Venmore, also well-established high street estate agents, last year grew their total auction receipts to more than £80m, up from £69m in 2006.

Kersh’s total for the year was £44.45m, up from £37m in 2006, while Venmore saw its receipts rise to £37m from £32m.

Despite the credit crunch, buyers still seem keen to snap up properties at the regular auctions taking place in the city. A recent Kersh event generated sales of more than £5m.

SUTTON Kersh has revealed plans to expand its head office in Cotton Street, in Liverpool city centre, and have bought the premises next door.

Sutton Kersh Lettings has reported healthy growth over the last 12 months and has more than doubled the size of its operations.

Its amalgamation with Thomson and Moulton in 2007 further bolst-ered the department’s growth, and they now boast a portfolio of more than 4,000 properties.