PRIVATE TREATY

PRIVATE TREATY

A Smarter, Calmer Way to Buy

In New Zealand’s diverse property market, the method of purchase you choose plays a significant role in your overall experience. Among the various options, buying through private treaty stands out for its flexibility and buyer-friendly structure. Unlike auctions or tenders, it allows for negotiation, conditions, and careful decision-making.

At Harcourts Patras & Co (Greenlane), we regularly guide clients through private treaty transactions, providing personalised support from start to finish. Here’s why this method may be the right choice for your next property purchase.

What is a Private Treaty Sale?

A private treaty sale involves listing a property with a set price or price guide. Buyers are invited to make offers, often including conditions such as finance approval or building inspections. All negotiations take place privately, without public bidding or time-bound competition.

This method is structured, confidential, and designed to give both parties room to negotiate fair terms.

Benefits of Buying by Private Treaty

Greater Flexibility

  • No pressure of public bidding or fixed auction dates

  • Allows time to assess the property, arrange inspections, and secure finance

Opportunity to Negotiate

  • Buyers can negotiate the purchase price

  • Flexibility on settlement dates, chattels, and offer conditions

  • Suits buyers looking for custom terms

Conditional Offers Accepted

  • Unlike auctions, you can submit offers that are subject to:

    • Finance approval

    • LIM and title checks

    • Building or meth testing

  • Ideal for buyers who require certainty before committing

Time for Due Diligence

  • More time to consult legal advisors, mortgage brokers, and inspectors

  • Ability to make a confident, informed decision

Less Emotional Stress

  • Offers are made privately without public pressure

  • Reduces the likelihood of emotional overbidding

Step-by-Step: How the Private Treaty Process Works

1. Property Viewing
You view the property at your convenience and signal your interest to the agent.

2. Making an Offer
You submit a written Sale and Purchase Agreement. It includes:

  • Your offer price

  • Proposed settlement date

  • Any conditions (e.g., subject to finance)

3. Negotiation
The agent facilitates negotiation between you and the seller until both parties reach an agreement.

4. Acceptance
Once terms are agreed, the contract is signed. If conditional, the buyer must meet the conditions within a specified timeframe.

5. Going Unconditional and Settlement
Once all conditions are met, the contract becomes unconditional. The deposit is paid and settlement preparations begin.

Who Should Consider Buying by Private Treaty?

  • First-Home Buyers
    Enjoy the opportunity to include finance and building conditions in your offer. Less pressure to make immediate decisions.

  • Property Investors
    Have the time to perform thorough due diligence and assess rental returns and potential capital growth.

  • Buyers Needing Finance
    Allows time to finalise mortgage approval and financial paperwork.

  • Anyone Seeking a Considered Purchase
    Ideal for those who prefer a measured, informed approach over high-pressure sales environments.

Why Work with Harcourts Patras & Co (Greenlane)?

  • Extensive Local Knowledge
    Our team understands Greenlane and surrounding Auckland suburbs in detail—from current market values to buyer demand and legal nuances.

  • Transparent Guidance
    We walk buyers through the entire process, from offer preparation to settlement, with clarity and consistency.

  • Reliable Network
    We connect you with trusted mortgage advisers, legal professionals, and property inspectors.

  • Wide Listing Access
    Many of our exclusive listings are sold via private treaty, particularly in high-demand family suburbs like Epsom, Remuera, and Greenlane.

Common Misconceptions About Private Treaty

  • “The first offer always wins”
    Sellers consider more than just price—conditions and settlement terms are equally important.

  • “You can’t compete with cash buyers”
    While cash offers are attractive, a well-structured conditional offer with fair terms can still win.

  • “There’s no urgency”
    In a competitive market, waiting too long can result in missing out. Prompt, informed offers are key.

  • “You can’t negotiate much”
    Private treaty is built around negotiation. Buyers often succeed in negotiating price or settlement terms.

Tips for a Successful Private Treaty Purchase

  • Do Your Research
    Compare similar recent sales to establish the property’s market value.

  • Seek Pre-Approval
    While not always mandatory, a pre-approved mortgage strengthens your offer.

  • Consult a Lawyer Early
    Have your solicitor review the Sale and Purchase Agreement before signing.

  • Craft Your Conditions Carefully
    Include only the necessary conditions to keep your offer attractive.

  • Act Promptly
    Just because the process is private doesn't mean the property will wait. Good homes still attract fast-moving interest.

Why Private Treaty Works in 2025

With rising interest in thoughtful purchasing, particularly in key suburbs like Greenlane, the private treaty method is gaining renewed relevance. It allows buyers to make smart, low-risk decisions while still being competitive in a fast-paced market.

Whether you’re entering the property market for the first time or expanding your portfolio, the private treaty method allows you to move at your own pace—without sacrificing strategy or opportunity.

Talk to Harcourts Patras & Co

If you’re ready to explore homes for sale by private treaty in Central and Eastern Auckland, our team is here to help. Harcourts Patras & Co combines local knowledge with global real estate systems, ensuring every client receives exceptional service and insights.

  • Explore listings at: www.patrasandco.nz

  • Or connect directly with our Greenlane office to speak with a consultant