Question 8 of 12
How will you handle offers and negotiation?
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Why this question matters
An offer contains more than a price. Timing, conditions and the buyer's position may change how you assess it. Ask how the agent will help you understand those differences, when you will be contacted and how instructions will be recorded. Explore how they would handle a low offer, an early offer and more than one interested buyer.
What to ask the agent for
How offers are presented, how conditions are compared, who negotiates, how multi-offer situations are managed and when you will be contacted.
Ask the agent to explain a recent negotiation without revealing another seller's private information. Focus on the decisions, communication and reasoning rather than accepting a claim that they always get the best price.
What a strong answer should include
A clear process that preserves your decision-making and explains price versus conditions.
What to write down or compare
- How offers and material changes will reach you, and who leads the discussion.
- Price, deposit, conditions, settlement timing and the questions for your lawyer.
- The process for competing offers, counteroffers and recording your instructions.
Relevant NZ seller considerations
Have your lawyer or conveyancer review a sale and purchase agreement before you sign. Do not assume that changing or accepting an offer is a casual step; ask what the proposed terms commit you to.
Video transcript
Getting an offer is only part of the job. What matters is how that offer is handled. Before you sign, ask how will you manage and negotiate offers on my behalf. Ask how offers will be presented to you, how quickly you will be told, and what information you will receive about the buyer's position, conditions and level of interest. Ask how the agent approaches multiple offers, low offers, conditional offers in situations where a buyer may be willing to improve their position. A strong answer should explain the negotiation process clearly, including how they protect your position without losing a genuine buyer. You are looking for an agent who can stay calm, communicate clearly, and negotiate strategically when it matters most. Compare each agent's negotiation approach side by side. Get the free agent interview pack at PropertySeller.co.nz.
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Download the free Agent Interview Pack and compare up to three agents side by side.