Questions and Answers

Q: Our home is currently for sale with an agency. Our agent is telling us we need to reduce our price to sell. Can we cancel our agency agreement and sell as a Private Seller instead? Since paying no commission will offset any reduction we need to make.

A: Yes, you can. We can advise you on how to cancel your agency agreement if you’re unsure how to do it yourself.

Q: If the service value is $5150.00, how can you provide it for only $2150.00?

A: We’ve negotiated special rates and combined service costs, allowing us to pass these savings on to you. Every service we provide is equal to or better than what any real estate agency offers.

Q: Why don’t you offer a video option in your marketing?

A: Because it’s not cost-effective. Our professional photographers can create a video if you’d like one for your marketing. However, our data and years of experience show that very few buyers spend time watching videos. On the other hand, EVERY buyer thoroughly reviews property photographs. If you prefer video or virtual walk-throughs, your consultant can guide you further; these options are available upon request.

Q: Couldn’t we go it alone and sell privately to avoid paying an agent or your fee?

A: Yes, you can, but when you factor in the costs to do it correctly, you will spend twice our service fee. Presenting a property effectively requires skill and will significantly impact the level of interest from buyers. Do the math, and you’ll find that our $2150.00 service fee offers incredible value.

Q: Can a Real Estate Agency get a higher price for our Property?

A: No, they cannot. With “Private Seller,” you use the same tools and methods that agencies use. You’ll be attracting interest from the same pool of buyers that agencies target.

Q: Can I save money buying a property being sold privately?

A: Sometimes. In New Zealand, it’s a misconception that the seller alone pays the agency commission; in reality, both the buyer and seller pay it. When buying a property privately, you normally save money since all sellers determine the price they’ll accept based on what they’ll receive in hand.

Q: Why don’t you use realestate.co.nz in your marketing?

A: Our research shows that we reach all potential buyers using TradeMe. Agencies promote using realestate.co.nz because they collectively own it, but it’s a double-up expense for sellers. TradeMe will reach these same buyers, being the primary platform for finding property in the New Zealand market.

Q: Isn’t selling a property stressful?

A: No. Agents claim it’s stressful to justify their role, but research suggests agents cause stress, not remove it. Sellers feel stressed waiting for information from their agents and from pressure to lower their prices. Selling a house should not be stressful, especially when you have the right support.

Q: Can we talk to a consultant before ordering and paying for the service?

A: Absolutely. Contact us through our “Contact Us” form with your phone number, and we will call you promptly. There’s no pressure to engage with us, and you can ask any questions. We have nothing to hide.

Q: Is “Private Seller” licensed under the Real Estate Authority (REA)?

A: No. The REA was consulted before launching this service, and they determined that as Professional Advisors, there is no requirement to be licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act of 2008.

Q: What if an agency is offering all the marketing for free?

A: It’s misleading. Some agencies may claim to offer free marketing, but these costs are being hidden elsewhere. Effective marketing is crucial in the sales process, and it’s not an area where you should cut costs.

Q: Are the “Private Seller” Consultants Experienced in Selling Property?

A: Yes, they are some of the most experienced property experts in New Zealand, having successfully sold hundreds of properties locally and internationally.

Q: We feel a little nervous about the whole process of selling our Property. Is this normal?

A: That’s perfectly normal. The industry likes to make sellers feel inadequate to justify agent roles. We provide support and confidence that enables you to handle the sale process. Most people enjoy the process and appreciate the money they save.

Q: How much money will we save as a Private Seller?

A: The amount you save depends on your property’s value. Selling an average home in NZ, you can save $10,000 to $30,000+; that’s your reward for the simple task of showing potential buyers through your home. Contact us with your address, and we’ll provide an exact savings estimate.

Q: An agent has told us they can get a higher price than if we sell our Property ourselves.

A: This is not true. (See our “Lies Agents Tell” section on our website.) They can’t achieve more than you can as a Private Seller.

Q: Are there any extra (hidden) fees to use “Private Seller” to sell my Property?

A: No, everything is covered in our $2150 fee. The only other cost you will incur is for a lawyer or conveyancer, which typically ranges from $1600 to $2000. Our consultant can offer guidance and recommendations if needed.

Q: What if I don’t want to sell my own Property and don’t want any part of the process?

A: We understand some people may feel this way, and we have a solution for you. There is only one Real Estate Agency in New Zealand that we recommend with confidence because they operate as all agencies should (but don’t), and they won’t restrict buyers as most agencies do. Contact us, and we’ll provide their information.

Q: I want to sell my investment property. Should I let the agency that manages my property sell it?

A: No, never. This is a significant conflict of interest. They may prefer selling to another investor to retain rental income, but an investor is unlikely to be the highest-paying buyer. If you choose to use an agency, avoid the one that manages your property. Contact us; we have a better solution.

Q: Why do so many people still use an agency if selling a property is easy?

A: They are simply unaware, believing that there is some magic in what agencies do. Until now, there hasn’t been a service like Private Seller. Selling your property is liberating, and the financial benefits are yours to keep.