Buying & Selling FAQs
Looking to buy a home in Auckland? Here’s your practical guide.
Real questions from real buyers — answered in a way that’s clear, honest, and easy to understand.
Buying a home is a big decision. Whether you’re a first-home buyer, upgrading, downsizing, or investing, we’re here to support you with no-pressure advice and down-to-earth help.
Below are some of the most common questions we hear from Auckland buyers — plus real-world tips from our experienced team. If you ever want to talk things through, just reach out.
Where should I start when trying to buy a home?
Start by getting your finances sorted. Talk to your bank or mortgage broker to understand what you can afford and ideally get pre-approved. Then, set up alerts on Trade Me or realestate.co.nz based on your wishlist — location, number of bedrooms, school zones, land size, etc.
Hot Tip: Pre-approval gives you a clear budget and lets agents know you’re serious — making you more competitive when the right home comes up.
I’m a first-home buyer — where do I begin?
Visit open homes, ask questions, and get a feel for what’s out there. Don’t be afraid to start casually — it helps you build confidence and learn what matters most.
Hot Tip: Bring a trusted friend or family member to early viewings. They’ll help you stay grounded and spot things you might miss.
My budget doesn’t match my wishlist — now what?
This is completely normal. Focus on what matters most: location, layout, sunlight, future potential. Be open to neighbouring suburbs or slightly different layouts — it can make a big difference.
Hot Tip: Write down your top three “non-negotiables” — it helps you stay focused and avoid decision fatigue.
Should I sell first or buy first?
Selling first gives you certainty and usually makes you a stronger buyer. But if you’ve found something you love before selling, we can help you work through conditional offers or longer settlements.
Hot Tip: Ask us to help you map out a plan — we’ve helped dozens of clients coordinate the timing smoothly.
I’m nervous about auctions — what should I do?
That’s totally normal. Auctions move fast, but they’re fair and transparent. The key is to be well-prepared.
Hot Tip: We can walk you through past results, go over likely pricing, and even come with you to the auction room if you’d like. You don’t have to go it alone.
What is a multi-offer?
A multi-offer means more than one buyer is putting in an offer at the same time. It’s a legal process — each buyer signs a form confirming they understand it’s competitive.
Hot Tip: Put your best foot forward. The seller only chooses one offer — and it’s not always about price. When offers are close, picking an odd number can help you stand out.
How do I make an offer?
We’ll prepare a Sale & Purchase Agreement with you — either in person or via DocuSign — and talk you through each clause. You’ll also receive the REA Buyer’s Guide, which is legally required.
Hot Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. We’re here to explain everything in plain language — so you feel confident before signing.
What clauses should I include in a conditional offer?
This depends on your situation, but common clauses include:
• Finance (bank approval)
• LIM report
• Building inspection
• Solicitor’s approval
• General due diligence
Hot Tip: Ask us what’s typical for your property type — too many clauses can weaken your offer, but the right ones protect you.
What does my lawyer check?
Your lawyer will look over the title, LIM, and sale contract to check for any risks or red flags. They’ll also confirm any consented work and future zoning changes.
Hot Tip: Don’t have a lawyer yet? We can suggest great ones who specialise in residential property and are easy to work with.
Do I need a building inspection?
It’s up to you and your level of experience but most of the time — yes. Even new homes can hide issues. A written report gives you peace of mind and may be required by your bank.
Hot Tip: We can connect you with a list of experienced building inspectors to try.
How do I know the home is what it seems?
Ask to see the LIM, title, and any building reports. Visit the property more than once and ask about:
• Flooding or drainage issues
• Unconsented work
• Upcoming developments
• Structural repairs or leaks
Hot Tip: Check the council site and even talk to neighbours — it’s surprising what you learn from the people next door.
What should I ask the agent?
Great starter questions:
• Why are the vendors selling?
• Are there any known issues?
• Has all work been properly consented?
• Are there any easements or shared driveways?
• Is there any flexibility on the timeline?
Hot Tip: Don’t just focus on price. The more you know about the property, the better equipped you are to make a strong offer.
How do I figure out what the home is worth?
Start by comparing similar recent sales — but remember that online estimates don’t account for light, layout, or condition.
Hot Tip: Ask us for real, recent sales in the area — not just algorithm estimates. We know what buyers are paying right now.
What’s the difference between freehold, cross-lease, and unit titles?
• Freehold: You own the land and house.
• Cross-lease: You share the land with others under a lease (common in older Auckland homes).
• Unit title: Often used for townhouses or apartments with shared areas and a body corp.
• Leasehold: You lease the land from a separate owner (less common, but check ground rent).
Hot Tip: Your solicitor will explain the legal side, but we’re always happy to give you the practical pros and cons too.
What if I recommend someone who’s selling?
Easy — and worth it. If you recommend a friend, family member, or colleague who lists and sells their home with us, we’ll say thanks with a $1,000 referral payment.
Hot Tip: Just let us know their name before they sign — and we’ll take care of the rest.
Straight answers, smart insights, and practical advice from experienced Auckland agents Sarah Tiplady and Julie Kelman-Poto.
Helping Central Auckland homeowners feel confident, informed, and supported throughout the selling process.
Below are some of the most common questions we hear from Auckland sellers — plus real-world tips from our experienced team. If you ever want to talk things through, just reach out.
Thinking of selling your Auckland home? Start here.
We know the process can feel overwhelming. The best first step is to have a no-pressure conversation with someone who’s been there before. We’ll help you understand your options, timing, market conditions, and whether selling now is the right move — or something to plan for later.
Hot Tip: Talk to us early. We can save you time, money, and stress by helping you avoid unnecessary spending on things that won’t impact your sale price.
Can I sell my house to a friend while listed with an agent?
Once you’ve signed an agency agreement, any sale — even to a friend — usually still requires commission to be paid. More importantly, your agent’s job is to protect you: making sure the right clauses, disclosures, and legal protections are in place to prevent future problems.
Hot Tip: Use your agent. We’ll handle the legal details, remove awkward conversations about price, and keep everyone protected — including your friendships.
Do I have to pay for marketing?
Yes — marketing is a crucial investment in getting your home seen, loved, and sold. It covers hard costs like professional photography, videography, Trade Me, Realestate.co.nz, Google and Meta advertising, signboards, and brochures — all paid directly to suppliers, not us.
You can pay upfront or use a deferred payment platform. We’ll recommend a plan that matches your property and your goals.
Hot Tip: Marketing is the tool that gets your home found at the most important time. It’s not where to cut corners — it’s what ensures you get the best result.
Is real estate commission negotiable?
Yes. Our standard Harcourts rate is:
• 3.95% on the first $500,000
• 2.5% on the balance
• $750 admin fee
(All plus GST.)
But we’re always happy to have a conversation. If you’ve had another quote or are selling multiple properties, let’s chat. We’ll tailor something that works for you.
Hot Tip: We’re in the business of talking about money. Don’t be shy — ask us.
Are Homes.co.nz or OneRoof valuations accurate?
They’re a decent starting point, but not always reliable. These online tools rely on past sales and council data — not how your home feels, how well it presents, or current buyer activity.
We’ll give you a tailored appraisal using up-to-date local sales, buyer insights, and on-the-ground knowledge.
Hot Tip: Online valuations are just data — not decisions. Talk to someone who knows what’s really selling now.
What’s the best time to sell?
Great homes sell all year. Spring and summer are busy, but smart sellers often launch just before the market wakes up — like early January or late winter.
Hot Tip: Timing is less about the season and more about your goals, your home’s presentation, and how much competition you’ll face.
Should I sell before I buy — or the other way around?
It depends. Selling first gives you financial certainty and makes you a cash buyer. But if you’ve found a home you love, buying conditionally could be right.
Hot Tip: We’ll walk you through both paths so you can make a clear, confident decision — not a rushed one.
Do I need a building report before going on the market?
Usually not. Most buyers prefer to do their own reports. But if your property has monolithic cladding or past weathertightness issues, it can help to get one upfront.
Hot Tip: Some buyers need a building report for their lender. We can advise when it’s a good idea — and connect you with reputable inspectors.
Should I challenge my Council Valuation (CV)?
CVs aren’t market value — they’re just a council rating tool. They don’t reflect renovations, buyer demand, or even always accurate floor plans.
If your CV is way off — especially if it doesn’t reflect updates or includes incorrect info — we’ll advise whether to challenge it, or how to reframe it in your marketing.
Hot Tip: CVs are just one data point. If yours is clearly out of step, we’ll help you put it in context — or recommend you challenge it.
What disclosures do I need to make?
Sellers must disclose anything that could affect a buyer’s decision — like unconsented work, flooding history, or planned developments.
We’ll guide you through what to declare and how to present it professionally.
Hot Tip: Think of disclosures as protection — they help avoid issues post-sale and keep the process clean.
How do you manage estate or family trust sales?
With care, clarity, and professionalism. We’ve managed many estate and family sales with multiple parties. We communicate clearly with everyone, stay neutral, and keep things moving smoothly.
Hot Tip: When things are sensitive or complicated, experience counts. We’ll keep everyone informed — and everything calm.
Could my property interest developers?
Potentially — depending on zoning, land size, access and overlays. We work with a wide developer and investor network and can assess your home’s potential.
Hot Tip: Even if you’re living in it, your property might be future development gold. We’ll help you explore all options.
Should I renovate before I sell?
Not necessarily. Small updates — decluttering, staging, paint, gardens — often deliver more value than expensive renovations. We’ll help you prioritise where it counts.
Hot Tip: Sometimes styled cushions and a tidy front lawn will earn you more than a new kitchen. Let us advise where to focus.
How quickly can I get on the market?
Very quickly if your home is ready. Once we sign the agreement, photography can be booked within days and we can go live soon after. But we’ll never rush you — presentation matters.
Hot Tip: We’ll move as fast as you’re comfortable — while ensuring your home hits the market at its absolute best.
Will neighbours come to my open home?
Maybe — but they’re not always sticky-beaks. Neighbours often know someone looking. We manage open homes with multiple team members and monitor who’s coming through.
Hot Tip: Neighbours can be helpful — but don’t talk price with anyone. Let your agent handle those conversations.
Should I speak to more than one agent?
Yes — most sellers meet two or three agents. It’s about finding someone you trust and feel comfortable with.
Hot Tip: Trust your gut. The best agent isn’t just the most polished — it’s the one who listens and truly has your back.
What do I say when people ask what price I want?
It’s best to stay vague. Even well-meaning friends and neighbours can repeat things unintentionally. Let us handle those conversations.
Hot Tip: Loose lips can cost you thousands. Price strategy is best left to your agent.
Are multi-offer situations real?
Yes. Buyers must sign a formal multi-offer declaration, and the process is tightly managed for fairness and transparency.
Hot Tip: Multi-offers are real — and powerful. They often lead to stronger prices and better conditions.
Is auction a good idea for my home?
Maybe. Auctions can drive strong, unconditional results — especially in competitive markets. But they’re not for every home.
Hot Tip: We’ll guide you on whether auction is right — or if a different method suits your goals better.
What if I just want a conversation — not a sales pitch?
Perfect. Many of our clients started with a friendly, no-pressure chat. We’re happy to offer advice, timing suggestions, or just talk through your options.
Hot Tip: No obligation. No push. Just experienced insight when you’re ready.
Do you work with other agents?
Absolutely. We welcome conjunctionals — meaning other agents can bring buyers to your home, even though we’re your main agent.
Hot Tip: More agents means more opportunities. We make it easy for others to work with us — and with you.
Will I work with you — or someone junior?
You’ll work directly with Sarah, Julie and Winnie. We don’t pass your campaign to juniors or disappear after you sign.
Hot Tip: When it’s your most valuable asset, you want senior, experienced agents by your side — every step.
Bonus Insight: What am I actually paying for?
You’re not just paying to “list” your property — you’re hiring a team to manage strategy, pricing, presentation, compliance, buyer handling, and negotiation — to get you the best result.
With us, you get:
• A business owner (Julie) and licensed agent overseeing compliance
• A marketing and sales expert (Sarah) with over 12 years’ experience
• A hands-on team who helps you present and stage your home
• Open homes hosted by us — not handed off
• Access to buyers, developers and re-targeted digital campaigns
• Honesty, transparency, and support from day one
Hot Tip: You’re not hiring a listing agent — you’re hiring an experienced selling team.
