Selling a farm
From offer to settlement: what a farm vendor can expect
Doug Wakelin, Rural/Lifestyle Sales Consultant, Property Brokers Te Awamutu
Short answer. After you accept an offer, the buyer works through their conditions, such as finance, a LIM, a valuation and farm inspections. When the conditions are met the agreement goes unconditional. Then you and the buyer sort possession, stock, GST and records ahead of settlement day, when funds and keys change hands.
Timeline
| Stage | What you do | Who helps |
|---|---|---|
| Offer received | Read it, ask questions, accept, reject or negotiate. You can accept any, one or none of the offers in a multi-offer round. | Agent, solicitor |
| Agreement signed, conditional | Provide documents buyers ask for. Allow inspections. | Agent, solicitor |
| Conditions met, unconditional | Deposit and conditions confirmed. | Solicitor |
| Pre-settlement | Agree possession date, stock and chattels, final inspection. | Agent, solicitor |
| Settlement day | Funds transferred, keys and records handed over. | Solicitors |
| After | Cancel insurance, notify councils and suppliers, final GST return. | You, accountant |
Source for the first row: Settled.govt.nz, receiving offers, checked 2 Nov 2026.
Things that matter on a farm
- GST. Check the GST position with your accountant. See GST on rural property.
- Season. Possession often needs to fit the farm calendar.
- Stock and chattels. Agree the list, who's moving what and when.
- Consents and farm records. Hand them over in a tidy file.
- Water, effluent and environmental conditions that carry to the buyer.
- Overseas buyer. Expect extra steps and a conditional agreement. See overseas buyers.
- Communication. Several of Doug's past clients mention being kept informed at every step. See testimonials.
Steps for you
- Keep your solicitor in the loop from the day you accept.
- Keep your lender informed if you have a mortgage to discharge.
- Keep up the farm until settlement, and keep records of any changes.
- Tell your agent about anything that affects the buyer's decision.
Check before you rely on this
General information only, not legal, tax or financial advice. Check with your solicitor and accountant.