Top
When you decide to buy a home there's a lot to know and do. Our six-step process makes it easier.
When you sell you are probably looking to buy again - which means twice the work. Follow our process so you know what's involved.
Property investment can be very rewarding, but it's not for everyone. Find out how it works and what's involved before you take the plunge.
Sometimes the only way to get what you really wnat is to build from scratch.
Are you getting the best out of your home loan?
Overview   >   1.  Affordability   >   2.  Exploring options   >   3.  Making an offer   >   4.  Sealing the deal   >   5.  Moving   >   6.  Maintaining your home
 

Many people are uncomfortable with negotiating. But every dollar you can save through the negotiating process goes directly into your pocket.

Preparing to make an offer
Offer and negotiation
Negotiating strategy

Paying a deposit at offer and negotiation

Buying privately

Auctions
Tenders
Conditions
Getting help – your key contacts
 

Negotiating strategy

Print This Page  


Here are some things that may help make the process easier:

Leave some room to move
Negotiating is expected – so you may not wish to make your best offer straight away.  However, if your offer is unreasonably low, it may not be taken seriously.

Confirm your finance
Talk to us to confirm how much you can borrow before making any offer.  We can let you know if your offer of finance is subject to any conditions being met e.g. a satisfactory valuation of the property you intend to buy.  You can then arrange to satisfy your finance conditions prior to making the offer, or these can be added as conditions on your Sale and Purchase Agreement.  

Take your time
Don’t feel pressured by the agent.  It’s in their interest to conclude the deal as quickly as possible, but it may not be in yours.  If you’re not sure, tell the agent you need time to think.  Most people act more rationally when they’ve had a chance to reflect.

Knowledge is power
Find out as much as you can about the property before you make an offer – including how much similar properties in the area have sold for, the property’s valuation (see QV), inspection information (e.g. what condition the home is in and how much money you will need to spend on repairs).  You will be more comfortable that you are making a reasonable offer if you have done your homework.  In addition, if you show that you have done your homework both the agent and the seller will realise your offer is a serious one and it will be harder to pressure you into making an inflated offer.

Know your top price – and stick to it
If you go into negotiations determined to get the property no matter what, you will probably end up paying more than you should.  Decide in advance your highest offer and don’t exceed it.  Remember there’s always another home. 

Next page | Paying a deposit at offer and negotiation >>

The content on our site is for information only. You should obtain professional advice relevant to your circumstances. Our lending criteria, terms, conditions and fees apply to all loans. Contact us for more details.

 

Tip: You can negotiate conditions and price

If negotiations on price are stalling, you may want to try including more favourable conditions.  For example, you could negotiate a longer or shorter settlement.  You may also choose to take off any conditions you specified.

Need home loan help?

Whatever your situation we can help.  Come into any branch, call us on 0800 185 185 or contact a Mobile Mortgage Manager.

A home buyer's story.

A real life story of other people’s home buying experience. Read Jeff and Philippa's story.