When you’re on the hunt for your new home, you’ll probably notice a few different ways homes are being sold. It can feel a bit overwhelming at first, but the more you understand how each sales method works, the more confident you’ll be when it’s time to make an offer.

Let’s break down the most common ways homes are sold in New Zealand and what they mean for you as a buyer.

Sales by Negotiation or Advertised Price

If a home is listed by negotiation or with an advertised price, it means the sellers are open to offers—but you might need to do a little digging first.

💬 Start by asking the agent:

– What price are the sellers hoping for?

– How does that compare to similar homes in the area?

– How long has the home been on the market?

– Have any offers already been made and turned down?

Once you’ve decided what you’re willing to offer and under what conditions (things like finance or building reports), the real estate agent will prepare a Sale and Purchase Agreement. This is a legally binding contract—so don’t skip the step of getting your lawyer to check everything over before you sign.

 If there’s more than one buyer keen on the home, you could find yourself in a multi-offer situation, where everyone puts their best offer forward.

👉 Top Tips:

– Do your homework—get your lawyer to help you understand any documents.

– Don’t tell the agent your maximum price—they work for the seller.

– It’s not just about price—your conditions, deposit, and settlement date can all help make your offer more appealing.

– If you’re unsure about anything, talk to your lawyer. That’s what they’re there for!

Deadline Sale

With a deadline sale, the seller sets a date, and you’ve got until then to put in your best offer. Sometimes they’ll give you a price guide, and sometimes it’s up to you to decide what the home’s worth to you.

The seller can accept an offer before the deadline—so if you’re keen, make sure the agent knows you want to be kept in the loop.

👉 Top Tips:

– Let the agent know you’re serious so they can notify you if another offer comes in early.

– Get your ducks in a row and make your offer as strong as possible.

– Your offer must be in before the deadline—no extensions, no do-overs.

Sales by Tender

A sale by tender is a bit like a silent auction. You submit a confidential offer in writing before a set closing date, and you don’t get to see what other buyers are offering.

If it says “unless sold prior,” that means the seller can accept an offer at any time—so again, it’s worth letting the agent know you’re interested.

👉 Top Tips:

– Do your research and get your lawyer’s advice on the documents.

– Let the agent know you plan to submit an offer so they can keep you updated.

– Offers must be in writing on a tender document—ask the agent or your lawyer for help.

– Think carefully about your price—you might not get a second shot after the tender closes.

Multi Offer – What Does That Mean?

A multi offer situation can pop up in a few ways: maybe a home didn’t sell at auction or by deadline/tender, and multiple buyers suddenly show interest. Or maybe one buyer puts in an offer and the agent gives others a chance to jump in too.

If you’re in a multi offer scenario, you’ll be told, and you might need to sign a form confirming you understand you’re competing with others.

👉 Top Tips:

– There must be other genuine offers for it to be a multi offer.

– You only get one shot—make your offer the best it can be, including price, deposit, and conditions.

Buying at Auction

Auctions can be exciting—but they’re also unconditional. That means if your bid wins, the home is yours—no backing out. You need to have your finances sorted and all your checks done before auction day.

Auctions can be held at the real estate office or right on-site at the property.

👉 Top Tips:

– Go to a few auctions beforehand to see how they work.

– Ask the agent for the auction pack and send everything to your lawyer to review.

– If you’re interested, tell the agent in writing so they can alert you if the auction date moves forward.

– If anything in the auction contract doesn’t suit you, talk to your lawyer. They might be able to help negotiate a change—but that has to happen before the auction begins.

Final Thoughts

Buying a home is a big deal, and each sales method comes with its own little quirks. The key is to stay informed, lean on your real estate agent, lawyer or conveyancer for guidance, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Whether it’s a quiet negotiation, a fast-paced auction, or a confidential tender, you’ll be ready to put your best foot forward.

Thanks for reading. Wishing you a successful day.

Cheers Matt

Chat with me  your local real estate expert in Tauranga City on 0274 951 536 

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