Speak to a mortgage broker
And make sure you have finance all ready to go. You may even hedge your bets as banks can all be different on
what amount they lend you and what conditions they place e.g. a valuation may be required. One email to
your broker can ensure one, two or three different banks are good to go.

Put your best foot forward
As Kiwis we all like to think we have haggled a good ‘deal’. If you love the house and you can afford an extra $10k, go for it, you may not get a second chance!

Put down an odd number as the offer amount
If you are thinking a round number such as $420,000, then chances are so are your competition. Offer something uneven like $421,800. This could be the difference between winning and losing and shows you have squeezed out every last dollar!

Do your homework
Our company provides free property analysis reports for our buyers that will give them a value range and suburb sales statistics. You can also get paid online reports that will help you make up your mind that you are offering a fair price. But also allow for some emotional ‘capital’ in your offer as well as factual data.

Have all your ducks in a row
It can be frustrating having to pay for reports and not be guaranteed to win the tender. However if you really want the house, have finance ticked off, building report, LIM report and title checked prior so you can make your offer
free of conditions.

Whether it’s a tender or even by negotiation
Perhaps obtain a bank cheque for the deposit and attach it with your offer. Some tenders require this anyway. A ‘cash’ offer, odd purchase figure (see tip above) and deposit cheque attached will speak volumes of your seriousness to buy the property! Perhaps write a letter with a family photo to go with your offer explaining how and why you want the house e.g. young family needing a home.

‘Grill’ the agent politely
Let them know your story. Glean as much from the agent as possible on their opinion on value and the seller’s position e.g. has the seller bought elsewhere and needs to sell. If you are a young couple with a baby on the way in dire need of a house, tell the agent and hopefully this will have an emotional effect on the seller when choosing tenders.