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Introduction
Legal and Negotiation Processes
Preparation and Planning
Settlement and Post-Purchase
The Market and Compliance
Viewing and Inspecting Properties

01.
 
How To Use The Step Guides
02.
 
Buyer Introduction
03.
 
Your Current Scenario
04.
 
Understanding Real Estate Market Dynamics and Influences
05.
 
Assessing the Benefits of Owning vs. Renting
06.
 
Assessing Your Readiness and Financial Planning for Homeownership
07.
 
Establishing a Budget for Property Purchase
08.
 
Deciding to Work With A Mortgage or Financial Adviser
09.
 
Deciding on Whether to Proceed with Home Buying
10.
 
Analysing Financial Capacity for a Mortgage in New Zealand
11.
 
Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
12.
 
Proceeding As a Cash Buyer
13.
 
Attending Property Seminars and Workshops
14.
 
Exploring Various Mortgage Options in New Zealand
15.
 
Property Sale Types in New Zealand

16.
 
Anti Money Laundering Rules and Regulations
17.
 
Determining Long-Term Goals and Future Plans for Property Buying
18.
 
Costs Associated with Buying a Property
19.
 
Creating a List of Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves
20.
 
Potential Purchasing Partners for Property Buying
21.
 
Researching the Housing Market in Your Desired Area
22.
 
Location and Commuting
23.
 
Understanding Property Taxes in New Zealand
24.
 
How to Compare The Values of Similar Properties
25.
 
Exploring Property Listings and Conducting Online Research for Buying Property
26.
 
Interacting with Real Estate Agents
27.
 
Arranging Private Viewings of Properties
28.
 
Guide to Attending Open Homes and Viewing Properties
29.
 
Arranging Professional Property Inspections
30.
 
Seeking Comprehensive Legal Advice Before Making an Offer
31.
 
Choosing the Right Conveyancing Lawyer when Buying Property
32.
 
Understanding Legal Obligations and Rights as a Buyer
33.
 
Considering Community Amenities and Infrastructure
34.
 
Conditional Offers Versus Unconditional Offers
35.
 
Formulating an Offer Strategy
36.
 
Buying a Property at Auction
37.
 
Buyer First Mover Advantage Offer Strategy
38.
 
Engaging in Negotiation of Purchase Terms
39.
 
Ensuring Compliance with Agreement Conditions When Buying Property
40.
 
Discussing Agreement Details with Your Legal Advisor
41.
 
Undertaking a Geotechnical Report
42.
 
Reviewing Property Inspection Reports for Potential Issues
43.
 
Requesting and Analysing a LIM Report
44.
 
Requesting and Analysing a PIM Report
45.
 
Things to Do During Due Diligence Period to Prepare for Move
46.
 
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Moving Company
47.
 
Organising Home and Contents Insurance
48.
 
Settlement Day Procedures
49.
 
How to Deal With Settlement Delays in Property Transactions
50.
 
Planning Interior Layout and Design
51.
 
Settling In and Post Purchase Steps
52.
 
Purchasing Necessary Furniture and Appliances
53.
 
Tools and Services To Help Manage Your Property & Finances Post Purchase
54.
 
Re-evaluating Your Budget Three Months Post-Property Settlement

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Buy / Step 15 of 54

Property Sale Types in New Zealand

Understanding the different types of property sales

New Zealand's property market offers a variety of sale options, each with its unique processes and implications for buyers. Let’s delve into the most common types of property sales in Aotearoa and how they affect you as a buyer.

A private treaty sale is where a property is traditionally listed with an asking price (or via negotiation) and potential buyers make offers to the seller or their real estate agent. This method provides a straightforward approach to buying property. As a buyer, you have the opportunity to negotiate on price and terms directly with the seller, often leading to a mutually beneficial agreement.

Advantages for Buyers
  • Flexibility to Negotiate: You can negotiate terms that suit both parties.
  • No Rushed Decisions: You have time to consider your offer, unlike auction situations.
  • Conditions Can Be Applied: Offers can be subject to conditions such as finance approval or a satisfactory building inspection.

Property auctions are public sales conducted by an auctioneer where buyers bid against each other. The highest bid wins once it surpasses the reserve price set by the seller.

Advantages for Buyers:
  • Transparency: Auctions are transparent; you see what others are willing to pay.
  • Immediate Result: If you’re the highest bidder above the reserve price, the property is yours.
  • No Cooling-off Period: Sales are final, providing certainty for both buyer and seller.

Auctions can be intimidating, and there’s no room for conditional offers. Pre-auction preparation is crucial – ensure you have your finances sorted and understand all legalities involved.

The tender process invites potential buyers to submit their best offer by a specified deadline. Unlike auctions, tenders are private and allow buyers to include any conditions in their offers.

Advantages for Buyers:
  • Confidentiality: Your offer remains confidential from other buyers.
  • Time for Considered Offers: You have time to think about your offer without immediate competition.
  • Condition Can Be Applied: You can include conditions that protect your interests, such as finance or due diligence clauses.

Tenders are competitive and you do not know what others are offering. It is important to put forward your best possible bid.

A deadline sale is similar to a tender but with a marketed end date. Sellers may choose this option when they want a quick sale without going to auction.

Advantages for Buyers:
  • Set Timeline: Knowing the deadline helps you organise finances and due diligence in time.
  • Potential for Negotiation: There may be room to negotiate before the deadline if the seller is motivated.
  • Conditional Offers Possible: Like tenders, you can make offers subject to certain conditions.

Despite these advantages, competition can still drive prices up, so it’s wise to prepare well before entering a deadline sale.

Buying off-the-plan means purchasing property before it is built, based on plans and developer promises. This can be attractive to buyers due to potential capital gains between purchase and building completion.

Advantages for Buyers:
  • Early Bird Prices: Properties are often cheaper when bought off-the-plan.
  • Customization Options: You might have input on finishes or layouts early in the process.
  • Growth Potential: There is potential for the property’s value to increase by completion time.

However, there is also risk involved in off-the-plan purchases, especially if the development doesn't proceed as planned or market conditions change adversely during construction.

Talk to your Lawyer and Real Estate Agent around sunset clauses, and where the deposit is held as this can minimise your risks for any potential future issues.

Some buyers opt for an exclusive contract with a buyer's agent who acts on their behalf throughout the buying process. This can be particularly helpful for those unfamiliar with New Zealand's real estate market or overseas investors.

Advantages for Buyers:
  • Expert Guidance: Buyer's agents provide expertise and local market knowledge.
  • Time-Saving: The agent does the legwork in finding suitable properties that meet your criteria.
  • Negotiation Assistance: Agents use their skills to negotiate deals on your behalf.

While this service comes at a cost, it could save money in the long run through better deals and saved time.

You can have an Agent work on your behalf without paying them/having a contract. The selling agent working on your behalf will receive the commission split from the listing agents commission (a conjunctional agreement between agents), so no cost to the buyer. Sales Associates who work underneath top agents usually do this a lot, working solely with buyers, and not listing.

Each sale type impacts how you approach buying property in New Zealand. To make sure you’re entering the best option for you:

Know Your Rights: Each sale type has different legal implications. Understanding these protects you from making uninformed decisions that could lead to costly mistakes.

Stay Patient: Don't rush into a decision. Take your time to find the right property that meets your needs and aligns with your financial circumstances.


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