Question 9 of 12
What happens if my property does not sell?
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Why this question matters
Discussing an unsuccessful campaign before launch gives you time to compare the options calmly. Separate a review of the selling strategy from a decision to stop, extend or change agency. Ask what each choice would cost and what work or obligations would continue. A fallback plan is useful when it identifies the next decision and the evidence you will have at that point.
What to ask the agent for
Review points, options for changing method, price or marketing, further costs, withdrawal process, and what happens at the end of the agency term.
Ask the agent to walk through the actual agreement if you pause the campaign or change agents. Keep cancellation correspondence and records of introduced buyers; obtain advice before assuming that ending marketing ends every obligation.
What a strong answer should include
Specific milestones, no automatic extra spend, and a defined exit or recovery plan.
What to write down or compare
- Review milestones and options for changing price, method or marketing.
- Committed costs, unused marketing and approval of any additional spending.
- Agreement end date, withdrawal process and steps before appointing another agency.
Relevant NZ seller considerations
A campaign ending and an agency agreement ending are separate matters. REA explains that commission can remain an issue for buyers introduced by the former agency. Your own clauses and circumstances need to be checked.
Video transcript
Selling plans do not always go perfectly. So, before you sign, ask what happens if your property does not sell. Ask the agent, what costs will I still have to pay? What happens to any unused marketing budget? How long does the agency agreement continue? And what happens if I decide to stop selling or change agents? Also, ask whether there are any circumstances where commission could still become payable later. For example, if a buyer originally introduced by that agent eventually purchases the property. A strong answer explains the process clearly before you commit, including the costs, timeframes and any ongoing obligations. You are not planning for failure. You are making sure there are no surprises if the campaign does not go as expected. Write down each agent's answer and compare them 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.
