Buying a farm or lifestyle block
Making an offer on a farm: conditions, tenders and multi-offers
Doug Wakelin, Rural/Lifestyle Sales Consultant, Property Brokers Te Awamutu
Short answer. Unless a property is going to auction, you can make a conditional or an unconditional offer. Conditions might cover finance, a LIM, a valuation, due diligence on water and consents, or your solicitor's approval. In a tender, offers go in writing before a deadline. If there's more than one offer, the vendor can run a multi-offer round.
Offers by method of sale
| Method | When you can offer | Conditions allowed? | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advertised price or negotiation | Any time | Yes, conditional or unconditional | Settled.govt.nz, checked 2 Nov 2026 |
| Deadline sale | By the advertised deadline | Yes | Settled.govt.nz |
| Tender | Written offer before the deadline. Usually not considered until the deadline passes. | Yes, for example finance. The vendor can also set conditions such as a settlement date. | Settled.govt.nz |
| Auction | Bid on the day. A pre-auction offer is possible if the vendor allows it. | No conditions on auction day. The sale is unconditional when the hammer falls. | Settled.govt.nz |
After a tender closes the vendor usually has up to five working days to decide which offer, if any, to accept, and doesn't have to accept the highest (Settled.govt.nz).
Example: a farm on tender right now
Doug's 1295 Marokopa Road, Marokopa listing is marketed by tender, closing 4pm Monday 30 November 2026 unless sold prior, with open days listed on the PB page (Property Brokers listing, checked 2 Nov 2026). Check the PB page for current details, because this will go out of date.
What to think about before you offer
- Conditions and dates. Give yourself enough time for the LIM, a valuation, finance and any farm advice. Keep conditions specific.
- Price plus GST. Check the GST position in writing. See GST on rural property.
- Possession and settlement date. Think about the farming calendar, stock movements and the season.
- Stock, plant and chattels. Say exactly what's included.
- Overseas buyers. Your offer will need to be conditional on consent. See overseas buyers.
- A multi-offer round gives every interested buyer a chance to put in their best offer. The vendor doesn't have to accept any of them.
Steps
- Talk to your solicitor and lender before you sign anything.
- Ask the agent about the method of sale and who's interested.
- Write down your top price and your must-have conditions.
- Have your solicitor read the agreement before you sign.
- Don't initial changes you haven't read.
Check before you rely on this
General information only, not legal advice. Your solicitor should check any agreement before you sign.