It can sometimes be hard to get all the information from one site. OneRoof doesn’t always list the number of bedrooms and bathrooms for recently sold properties.

So I also check Homes.co.nz and realestate.co.nz to double check.

Step #4 – Make a spreadsheet and check 7 other recently sold properties

You can’t just look at one property. I recommend getting the numbers for at least another 7.

Create a spreadsheet. Put the nicer recently sold properties above yours. Put the ones that aren’t as nice below.

Here’s what I got for Maple Place –

4 Final Comparison

Properties that are slightly worse than the one I want sold for $730,000 – $742,500.

So the property I want to buy will probably sell for more than this.

Properties that were nicer than the one I want sold for $780,000 – $820,000.

So I should offer less than this.

An offer between $745,000 – $775,000 is probably fair.

Step #5 – Use this information to negotiate with the real estate agent

Most agents pay thousands of dollars to get this information. But you can get it for free on OneRoof.

The best part is you can use this information to negotiate.

If an agent tried to get me to offer 780,000 for Maple Place, I could say “56 Acacia Ave (around the corner) sold for $780,000.

“And that property has a larger floor plan and bigger section. It’s also nicer. Your seller isn’t going to get that much.”

So running the numbers properly can give you confidence when deciding what to offer.

I ran these numbers a few months ago. The property on Maple Place ended up selling for $750,000. Within the range we expected.

This process works and takes about 30 minutes. Give it a go the next time you’re looking for a new home or investment.

Ed solo

Ed McKnight

Our Resident Economist, with a GradDipEcon and over five years at Opes Partners, is a trusted contributor to NZ Property Investor, Informed Investor, Stuff, Business Desk, and OneRoof.

Ed, our Resident Economist, is equipped with a GradDipEcon, a GradCertStratMgmt, BMus, and over five years of experience as Opes Partners' economist. His expertise in economics has led him to contribute articles to reputable publications like NZ Property Investor, Informed Investor, OneRoof, Stuff, and Business Desk. You might have also seen him share his insights on television programs such as The Project and Breakfast.

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