The Auction Trap

Free video · 3 of 15

You sign a contract. The agent makes a promise.

Message Pierre on WhatsApp Request a meeting

In this video

The short version

From Chapter 3 of The Auction Trap. Sellers fund almost everything, yet have the least control. It starts with one document.

  • You pay up front. Marketing, photography, advertising, and often the auctioneer and venue. Mostly up front, and mostly regardless of the outcome.
  • The listing agreement binds you, not the agent. You commit to one agency for around 90 days, and owe commission however the buyer finds you. The agent commits to market the property and work towards a sale, which is a promise, not an enforceable outcome.
  • Commission rewards a sale, not a great price. A much better price earns the agent only a little more. The agent is paid only if the sale happens.
  • At auction, your agent steps back. Once bidding starts, the auctioneer and the room negotiate. Before you sign, ask: what will you actually do when the negotiation gets difficult?
  • Time works against you. In week 3 buyers are fresh and curious. By week 12 they wonder what's wrong with it. Ask for a shorter agreement, for example 60 days with a review at 30. A good agent will see that as fair.
Cover of The Auction Trap

Free video 3 of 3

Want all 15 videos?

This is one of three free videos. Download the free book, The Auction Trap, and all 15 videos unlock straight away. Watch them all tonight, or let them arrive by email, one every two days.

Get the free book and all 15 videos
Pierre de Klerk
Pierre de KlerkVendor Mentor, Christchurch

Selling in the next two months? Talk to Pierre first.

Before you call an agent, book a free, one-hour, one-on-one session. Pierre will prepare you for every decision ahead. Then he'll introduce you to a trusted agent from his panel of licensed agents to sell your home, and he'll stay involved on your side.

Prefer WhatsApp? Send Pierre a message and he'll reply personally.

+64 21 295 7260

There's no charge for a session with Pierre. If you go on to list with an agency he introduces, he is paid a share of that agency's commission. He'll explain exactly how it works when you meet.