Seller resources

Selling a Bay of Plenty home, done properly.

No pressure, no rushed appraisals, no vanity numbers to win your listing. Just a calm five-step process backed by evidence.

1 · Appraise

Free, in-person, backed by  comparable sales and tailored market insights. An opportunity to sit down to understand your specific needs.

2 · Prepare

We'll work together to prepare your home for market, keeping the process as stress-free as possible. Thinking of making improvements to your home, check with us first to understand its value add.

3 · Capture & Market

We work with talented photographers and videographers to capture your property at its best, then build a tailored marketing approach that puts it in front of the right buyers.

4 · Launch

Your property will be showcased across leading property platforms, targeted social media, print and Ray White's active buyer search data across New Zealand, so it reaches buyers already looking for something like your home.

5 · Negotiate

Every property is different. We'll recommend the right sales method for your home and timing, then negotiate confidently to achieve the best possible outcome.

Methods of sale

Auction, tender, deadline or negotiation?

There's no single right answer. It depends on your property, timing and how much certainty you want. We'll walk you through the different methods and together select the right one for you.

Download the method-of-sale guide (PDF)
Auction
Best when
Broad appeal · competitive market · defined timeline
  • Firm, cash-unconditional sale
  • Creates urgency
  • Transparent competition
Deadline Sale
Best when
Family homes · slightly softer market · flexibility on terms
  • Accepts conditional offers
  • Buyers set their own price
  • Less pressure than auction
Price by Negotiation
Best when
Unique or premium homes · smaller buyer pool
  • Discretion around price
  • Flexible on time
  • Suits high-end properties
Tender
Best when
Trust or estate sales · commercial · unique lifestyle
  • Formal, private offers
  • Compare on more than just price
  • Suits complex transactions
Pre-listing checklist

30 days out. What to actually do.

A practical checklist to prepare your property for the marketing process with most items cost nothing but time.

Download the 30-day checklist (PDF)
  • Order a LIM report and skim it for surprises
  • Deep-clean windows inside and out
  • Trim hedges, pressure-wash the drive, refresh mulch
  • Repaint scuffed skirtings and touch up front door
  • Fix that one door that's been sticking since 2019
  • Depersonalise and declutter
  • Empty every wardrobe by a third
  • Consider partial or full staging, where appropriate
Seller FAQ

Questions sellers usually ask us

How much does it cost to sell a house?

There's no single universal figure. The main agent-related costs are the commission set out in your agency agreement, plus any marketing or advertising you agree to. Before you sign an agency agreement, an agent is required to explain in writing how commission is calculated, give an estimated dollar amount based on the appraised price, and explain what marketing is included versus charged separately. We put the proposed fees and marketing plan in writing so you can see the total plan before deciding anything.

Can real estate commission be negotiated?

Yes. The terms of an agency agreement — including commission and expenses — can be discussed and negotiated. Rather than comparing one percentage in isolation, weigh up the whole proposal: the strategy, the service, the marketing, the method of sale and the likely result.

What is an agency agreement?

It's the legally binding agreement between you and the real estate agency. It sets out what the agency is authorised to do, the method of sale and marketing, the commission, the expenses and the term. For residential sales, a licensed agent must give you the REA-approved Residential Property Agency Agreement Guide before you sign. It's always worth getting independent legal advice before signing.

Do I still pay marketing costs if my property does not sell?

It depends on what's agreed in your agency agreement. Before your campaign launches, make sure you understand which marketing is included and which items are additional expenses. We'll always spell that out clearly in writing up front.

Which method of sale should I use — auction, deadline or price?

There's no universally best method. It comes down to the property, the likely buyer pool, how conditional buyers are, the current competition and your timing. We'll walk you through the options — and our method-of-sale guide is a good place to start.

Download the method-of-sale guide (PDF)
What should I do before putting my home on the market?

Start with presentation, maintenance, paperwork and a clear campaign timeline before spending heavily on renovations — well-chosen preparation usually does more than a big last-minute spend. Our 30-day pre-market checklist takes you through it step by step.

Download the 30-day checklist (PDF)
How is a property appraisal worked out?

A realistic appraisal reflects current market conditions and is supported by comparable information about similar sales. Ours also takes into account your property's condition and presentation, and what it's competing against on the market right now.

Where can I read the official NZ guidance?

The Real Estate Authority (REA) publishes free consumer guides, including the approved agency agreement guide and the sale and purchase agreement guide. You can read them all on the REA website.

Read the REA consumer guides

How appraisals work locally: Mount Maunganui · Papamoa Beach · Ocean Downs · Arataki. Selling in Omanu, Bayfair or anywhere else in the Bay? Use the main appraisal request and we’ll assess it locally.

General information only. Agency agreements are legally binding, so read them carefully and get independent legal advice if you need it.

First step

Book a free, in-person appraisal.

30–45 minutes at your kitchen table. You'll leave with a written appraisal range and the comparable sales that support it.