One of the most common things we hear from buyers is: “Can you get me a good deal?”
The honest answer? No — not from my vendors.
Real estate agents work for the seller, even if they aren’t the listing agent. Our legal (fiduciary) obligation is to get the best possible result for them. So, this month, I thought we’d flip the script and look at how buyers can put themselves in the best position to succeed.
Don’t Rush In
Well, not straight away.
We spent Easter up at the Mount — a surfer’s paradise. Watching the pros, you notice something: an experienced surfer doesn’t just charge into the water. They sit on the dunes, watch the sets roll in, and time their move perfectly. An inexperienced surfer? They just wade straight in and get hammered.
That’s exactly how you should treat the property market. Don’t rush. Spend time observing. Maybe even commit to not buying for a few months. Use that time to;
- Visit open homes
- Refine your ‘must have’ list
- Guess selling prices
- Research results
You’ll be amazed how accurate your instincts become once you take the time to know the market.
Are You Really Close?
If you’ve ever offered in a Tender or Deadline sale, you might have heard something like:
“There are a few offers close — would you like to improve yours?”
In Wellington, this has become almost too common. Originally, a Tender meant best offer wins or nothing — no second chances. Now? It has become a negotiation.
Here’s my advice: When you put your offer in, make sure it’s the number you’re willing to lose the property at. If you’ve done your homework, you’ll know where the market is.
Tender and Deadline sales shouldn’t be haggling contests. Offer your best, knowing you can walk away at peace if it doesn’t go your way.
Don’t Get Conned
I’m a podcast junkie — especially ones about decision-making. Brian Brushwood’s World’s Greatest Cons is a favourite. His point?
We don’t get conned because we’re stupid. We get conned because we’re human.
This reminds me of a trick agents will often use in real estate:
Low BEOs (Buyer Enquiry Over levels) used as a hook to get buyers through the door only to sell for for hundreds of thousands more. If you know the market well, you shouldn’t need a price guide to figure out value, you should be able to estimate a homes value within 10% just by being involved in the market. Wasting time and energy on homes with low BEO’s just frustrates buyers.
Word to all the buyers out there, don’t get conned. Ignore the low BEO and the underquoting agent. Focus on the market and the knowledge you have built.
We Don’t Like That
Getting kids to try new food is hard. Getting adults to try a different type of home? Almost impossible.
We all have mental filters about what we think we’ll like, and what we won’t. As agents, we work hard to present homes in a way that limits “instant turn-offs.”
As a buyer, challenge yourself: Each Sunday, view two homes that aren’t on your must-see list.
You might just surprise yourself — and end up buying something you never expected. It certainly wouldn’t be the first time!
The Wellington Market
As we head into May, supply still outweighs demand.
There are a lot of properties for sale, and the recent rate drop hasn’t moved the needle like everyone hoped. A summary of the reality?
- Good homes still sell well and attract competition.
- Average or poorly maintained homes continue to struggle.
- Price levels are 2.4% down year on year and unlikely to shift dramatically in the short term.
If you’re selling and hoping for a premium price, you’ll need more than just employ a sales strategy which delivers you more than just the market.
Wellington Market Quick Stats
What’s on in Welly?
Royal NZ Ballet: Home, Land and Sea, St James Theatre, 24-26 July 2025
New Zealanders will relate to these three moving ballets as they explore locally shared heritage. This collaboration with The New Zealand Dance Company sees acclaimed choreographer and Arts Laureate Moss Te Ururangi Patterson explore the importance of people and place. In the title work, New Zealand’s cultural heritage is woven through with the historical echoes of Cook’s Endeavour voyages. The music brings together traditional Māori instruments with modern sounds. Created in a collaboration between respected composer Tane Upjohn-Beatson and iconic musician Shayne Carter of rock bands Straitjacket Fits and Dimmer.
Hurricanes vs Highlanders, Sky Stadium, 16 May 2025
Wellington’s own team, the Hurricanes, are bringing the storm to every home game. Also known as Hau Āwhiowhio, the Hurricanes will unite and excite a home crowd. Expect non-stop action and unforgettable moments as the season progresses.
Matariki Glow Show, The Opera House, 10 June 2025
Positive and uplifting messages feature in a bilingual show for tamariki in June. ‘Matariki Glow Show’ brings the Matariki myths to life with unique puppetry which glows under UV lights. It’s a distinctly New Zealand story that entertains and educates in equal parts.
The show tells the story of te kāhui whetū o Matariki (the star cluster of Matariki) as they gather to light up the skies for Māori New Year. But where is the smallest star, Waipuna-a-rangi? Could the little one be lost in the ocean? The story is told in te reo Māori and English. It shares themes of whakawhanaungatanga, friendship, and togetherness.
In 2017 by Sarah Burren came up with the original idea to illuminate the Matariki story for children on stage. This live performance returns by popular demand.
Click here to book your tickets now
Meet the Ben Stevens & the Team
If you, or anyone you know, could benefit from a considered market assessment by Wellington’s only licensed agent and registered property valuer, please do not hesitate to call. We are always happy to help.
