If you currently own a vacant property, you have to ask yourself if it's doing you any good. It may be appreciating in value, but it will also be costing money in a variety of ways, including:

• Mortgage payments – if you have bought this property, or if it has been left to you with some mortgage still to pay, you are responsible for making the payments. If the house isn't making any money for you on a regular basis, the repayments will have to come from your own income.

• Bills – whilst a vacant property doesn't clock up much in the way of gas and electricity bills, you will still have to pay council tax, and a standing water charge. There may be other bills to pay as well, such as shared driveway or garden maintenance.

• Maintenance – a vacant property is often one that needs some care and attention. Unless you inspect it regularly, you won't know if the tiles are lose, the pipes have burst or damp's appeared. If you're thinking of selling it, you'll need to make sure its in good condition, from the paint on the front door to the chimney pots – and this can all be costly.

• Protection – a vacant property is attractive to squatters, thieves and vandals. In order to protect your property, you should install an alarm system, which can be expensive.

• Insurance – even though your property is empty, you will still need to have buildings insurance. Depending on the size and condition of your property, this can cost several hundred pounds each year.

If your property is empty, you're paying out for all the above, and more, but you're not earning any money from the property itself. Instead of paying out, why not cash in? Sell your vacant property now and you can reinvest your money in property that's easier to rent out, or in something other than property, so that you really are making the most of your money.

If you need help to sell a vacant property, contact us at Discount Property Auction. We're committed to helping you, whatever your circumstances. If you want to sell your home, you can use our dedicated online auction facility, which allows you to upload your property yourself and put it in front of genuine, interested buyers. Call us now on 0800 1313 999 or email admin@discountpropertyauction.co.uk to arrange a valuation today.