Thinking About Selling Your Home? Here’s What You Need to Know
Selling your home can be one of the biggest decisions you’ll make, whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or relocating for work, school zones, or lifestyle. To help make the process smooth and successful, here’s a step-by-step guide to what’s involved from start to finish.
1. Decide to Sell
Before listing, take some time to consider your reasons for selling and your ideal timing. Are you chasing more space, a change of scenery, or a move closer to family or work? It’s also worth researching your local market to understand current trends and property values. Websites like OneRoof and Homes.co.nz can give you a general idea, but they don’t account for the unique features of your home, so their estimates aren’t always accurate. For a true indication of value, request a Comparative Market Appraisal (CMA) from a licensed real estate agent or engage a Registered Valuer.
2. Choose the Right Real Estate Agent
Your agent plays a key role in your selling journey, so take the time to find someone you trust. Research a few agents and compare marketing strategies, commission structures, and communication styles. Look at their sales history and client reviews, and don’t forget to check their online presence.
Once you’ve found the right fit, you’ll sign an Agency Agreement, which outlines how your agent will represent you (sole, exclusive, or general).
3. Prepare Your Home for Sale
Presentation matters. Start by decluttering, deep cleaning, and making any small repairs that could add value. Consider professional staging to help buyers visualise themselves living in your home and high-quality photography to make your listing stand out online. Gather key property documents early, such as your LIM report or building inspection report, as these can speed up the sale process when buyers are ready to make an offer.
We have a great checklist on how to prepare your home for selling here:
4. Get an Appraisal
Your agent will provide a detailed market appraisal based on recent comparable sales and active listings in your area. This gives you a realistic understanding of what your home could sell for and outlines how their commission and marketing plan will work.
5. Choose a Method of Sale
There are several ways to sell your property, and the best choice will depend on your home and the current market:
Auction – ideal for competitive markets where demand is strong.
Deadline Sale / Set Date Sale – all offers are presented by a specific date, giving you control without having to accept any offers you’re not happy with.
By Negotiation / Price by Negotiation – allows flexibility and encourages offers.
Fixed Price – straightforward and transparent for buyers.
Offers Over – sets a clear minimum price expectation while leaving room for higher bids.
Your agent will guide you on which approach best suits your property.
6. Market Your Property
A strong marketing strategy ensures your home reaches as many potential buyers as possible. Most campaigns include professional photography, video, signage, floor plans, and online listings across Trade Me, Realestate.co.nz, and the agency’s own website. Social media promotions, open homes, and private viewings help create exposure and generate interest. Your agent will handle enquiries, feedback, and follow-up with interested buyers.
7. Receive and Negotiate Offers
Once buyers are interested, they’ll submit written offers (or bid at auction). Your agent will present all offers, explain the terms, and help negotiate price, conditions, and settlement dates.
Common conditions include finance approval, building inspections, or the sale of another property, and if you don’t understand, just ask your agent! That’s what they are there for.
8. Accept an Offer
When you’ve agreed on terms, both parties sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement, making it legally binding. If the offer is conditional, the buyer has a set timeframe to meet those conditions. Once everything is satisfied, the agreement becomes unconditional, and the sale moves towards settlement.
9. Work with Your Solicitor
Your lawyer or conveyancer will handle the legal details. Things like checking the property title, preparing documents, and liaising with the buyer’s solicitor. They’ll also ensure all rates, utilities, and any outstanding charges are settled correctly before completion.
10. Settlement and Handover
On settlement day, ownership officially transfers to the buyer, and payment is made to your solicitor. Once funds are cleared, your agent will hand over the keys, and just like that, you’ve successfully sold your home! Selling your home doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, professional advice, and a trusted agent by your side, you can achieve a smooth sale and the best possible result.