The right sale method should suit your property, likely buyers and timetable. Ask your salesperson to explain the recommendation, the alternatives and the plan if the first campaign does not produce an acceptable offer.
An auction sets a public bidding event and a clear campaign timetable. The seller sets a confidential reserve. A successful auction purchase is normally unconditional, so buyers need to complete finance and property checks beforehand and understand the auction terms.
Open competition can make buyer interest visible, but an auction does not guarantee multiple bidders or a sale. Buyers who need conditions may be unable to bid on the standard terms. Discuss likely buyer readiness, preparation time, campaign costs, pre-auction offers and what happens if the property is passed in.
A deadline gives buyers a stated date to submit offers. Offers can include conditions, and price, conditions and settlement can be compared together. Check whether the property may sell before the deadline and how interested buyers will be kept informed.
A deadline can focus decisions without requiring auction bidding. It still needs useful price guidance and a plan for assessing offers. The seller is not obliged to accept an offer merely because the deadline has arrived.
Tender uses formal written offers under the tender documents. It can accommodate different terms, but buyers and sellers need to understand the documents, closing arrangements and acceptance process. Ask why tender would suit this property and obtain legal advice on the terms before committing.
An advertised price gives buyers a clear starting point. Negotiation leaves price to discussion and offers. Both can allow conditional offers and flexibility around timing. The trade-off is that an unrealistic price or unclear expectations may discourage interest; review the evidence and feedback rather than letting a campaign drift.
The method of sale is only one part of the campaign. Discuss photography, floor plans, listing copy, online advertising, signs, print and viewing arrangements as relevant to your home. Agree the cost and purpose of each item before it is ordered.
Views and clicks can show attention, but they are not offers or proof of a higher sale price. Ask how reporting will inform practical decisions.
Compare the complete terms, including conditions and settlement, with your salesperson and lawyer. If there is more than one written offer, ask how the multi-offer process works. You do not have to accept the highest offer, or any offer.
Read Settled’s explanation of sale methods, then arrange an appraisal to discuss the approach for your home. See our preparation guide before planning photography and viewings.
Ray White’s NZ network offers NurtureCloud tools for organising buyer interest, matching potential buyers with properties and sharing campaign information. Useful technology helps a salesperson follow up relevant interest and explain the response to a campaign; it does not guarantee a buyer or a price.
At your appraisal, ask which tools your salesperson will use for your home, what information you will receive and how it will guide decisions. Confirm any optional advertising products and costs in the campaign plan. Read Ray White NZ’s explanation of the buyer module for the network capability.
Burnside’s live-auction page provides a way to watch auctions. Viewing is separate from registration and approved bidding arrangements. Your salesperson remains the person to discuss feedback, offers and the next decision with you.