Selling a farm
Choosing a rural real estate agent: questions to ask
Doug Wakelin, Rural/Lifestyle Sales Consultant, Property Brokers Te Awamutu
Short answer. Pick an agent who knows your district, can explain how they'd sell your farm and tells you plainly what it'll cost. Ask for local sales, ask how they'll communicate, and read the agency agreement before you sign. An appraisal is an opinion, not a valuation.
Questions to ask any agent
| Question | What a good answer looks like |
|---|---|
| How long have you worked in the rural sector, and in this district? | Specific years and places |
| What have you sold nearby, and what did you do for those vendors? | Names or areas, with the vendor's permission |
| How will you decide the method of sale? | A reasoned view, not a one-size answer |
| What will it cost? | Commission and marketing costs in writing |
| How and how often will you update me? | A clear rhythm, such as weekly, and who calls whom |
| Who else is on the team? | Names and roles |
| How do you handle conditions, GST and settlement? | Practical, with your solicitor and accountant in the loop |
| What won't you do? | Honesty about the limits |
Appraisal and valuation
- An appraisal is an agent's opinion of likely market value, usually free.
- A registered valuation is a formal report from a registered valuer, usually paid for. Banks may ask for one.
- Neither is a promise of a sale price.
About Doug Wakelin
Doug Wakelin is a Rural/Lifestyle Sales Consultant with Property Brokers in Te Awamutu. He has worked in the rural sector since the 1980s and has been a rural sales consultant since 2005. His clients' own words are on his testimonials page.
What the rules say
Agents must not mislead or withhold known material information, and must advise buyers to take independent legal and technical advice. See the Real Estate Authority's rural guidance and disclosure principles.
Check before you rely on this
General information only. Check with your solicitor before signing an agency agreement.