Marketing Your Property

Marketing should describe the property accurately and give suitable buyers useful information. The channels, material and costs for a campaign should be discussed for the individual property and recorded in the agency agreement. This guide explains what to ask; it does not promise that Ray White Richmond provides a particular channel, package, audience, result or included service.

Ask for a written campaign plan

Before signing, ask the salesperson to explain how the property is proposed to be marketed and advertised. Request a clear written list of the planned items, timing and any choices you can make. Ask what is included in the service, what is optional, which costs you would pay, when they are due and what happens if the campaign changes or ends early. Compare the proposal with your budget and priorities.

Understand each item

For any proposed photography, floor plan, sign, brochure, online listing, social post, paid placement, video or other material, ask who arranges it, what it will show, how long it will be used and whether there is a separate charge. Check what happens to advertising when a listing ends. Do not assume that every item is included or that a particular website, channel or format is available for every property.

Check information and images

Review the draft listing and campaign material before publication. Check the address, ownership and title details, land and floor areas, property features, chattels, consents, price wording and photographs against reliable records. Tell the salesperson if anything is wrong or uncertain. Do not present an unverified statement about subdivision, building work, views, school eligibility, hazards, income or future use as established fact. Buyers may carry out their own checks and obtain independent advice.

Agree how progress will be discussed

Ask how enquiries, viewing feedback and offers will be passed to you, who your contact person is and how to reach them. Agree when you will review the plan and how proposed changes to wording, price or timing will be discussed. The right approach depends on the property, your agreement and the sale method. No advertising channel or campaign can guarantee a buyer, a sale date or a price.

Keep your decisions clear

Read the agency agreement and the marketing plan together. Ask for an explanation of the commission, advertising expenses, any rebates or discounts and the conditions that apply. You can ask questions and compare advice before deciding whether to sign. Get independent legal advice if you are unsure about the agreement or its terms. The Real Estate Authority’s marketing and advertising guidance explains professional requirements.

Talk through your options

If you are considering selling in Nelson or Tasman, request an appraisal and ask for a written campaign proposal for your property. A written appraisal should be supported by comparable sales information, and the agency agreement should explain marketing and advertising costs and what the vendor will be charged for. The proposed campaign, costs and terms should be clear before you decide.