23/08/2026
I often get asked, what's the difference between the various sale methods, here's a brief run down for you with Pro's and Con's.
One important decision to make when selling your property is choosing the most suitable method of sale. Different methods of sale have different advantages and disadvantages depending on type of property, market conditions, your situation i.e timeframe, goals and your personal preference.
There are five main sales methods, Auction, Price, Sale by negotiation, Expression of interest/set date sale and Tender.
1) Auction, Advantages: Timeframe approach, Ensures competition, Unconditional sale, Transparency and The vendor is in control.
Auction, Disadvantage: no conditional offers initially.
2) Price, Advantages: Buyers know what the price is, can deal with conditional offers.
Price, Disadvantages: If priced incorrectly you may sell too cheaply, No timeframe and Purchasers may discard property on price, not considering the features and benefits.
3) Sale by Negotiation, Advantage: You can accept conditional offers.
Sale by negotiation, Disadvantages: No time frame/no urgency, Offers are often conditional, Buyers often try to get a bargain.
4) Expression of interest/set date sale, Advantages: Timeframe approach.
Expression of interest/set date sale, Disadvantages: Offers can be conditional.
5) Tender, Advantages: Timeframe approach, Allows confidentiality, Ideal for challenging properties, Interested parties have to do due diligence and a very formal process that locks buyers in.
Tender, Disadvantages: Non Transparent, Buyers often don’t feel comfortable with the process.
Each sales method has it’s pros and cons, you need to weigh them carefully and choose the one that suits your situation best.