FINDING “THE ONE”: WHY THE PROPERTY MARKET IS LIKE A HIGH-STAKES DATING GAME

Entering the property market—whether you’re selling your home or buying a new one—is a lot like navigating the modern dating world. It’s an intense, high-stakes relationship where you need chemistry, trust, and a shared goal to succeed. You’re looking for “The One,” but who that is depends entirely on which side of the table you’re on.

For sellers, it’s about finding the perfect real estate agent. For buyers, it’s about finding the perfect home. In both scenarios, there’s one person you absolutely need in your corner: your lawyer, the ultimate wingman who ensures you don’t end up with a broken heart or an empty wallet.

The Seller’s Story: Speed-Dating for Your Champion

As a seller, you’re looking for a short-term partner—an agent—to champion your most valuable asset. You wouldn’t commit to the first person who compliments your house, so don’t sign with the first agent who knocks on your door. It’s time to play the field.

The First Date: The Appraisal

The first meeting is a test of character. A great agent won’t just flatter you with an unrealistically high price. They’ll be honest, grounding their appraisal in solid facts and hard data. They are legally required to exercise skill, care, and diligence, and that starts with an honest assessment.

Your Move: Don’t be shy. Ask, “Can you show me the specific comparable sales you used to get to that number?” An agent who backs up their words with evidence is a keeper.

The Speed-Dating Round: The Agent Interviews

“Date” at least three agents. This is your chance to see who is truly compatible with you and your property.

Your Must-Ask Questions:

• “What are your intentions for my property?” Ask for a specific, tailored marketing plan. A generic approach is a red flag.
• “How will you communicate with me?” The rules require them to communicate regularly and honestly. You need to know their style matches your expectations.
• “Tell me about your past relationships.” Ask for their track record with similar properties. Can they prove they’re the right fit for you?

Ultimately, the agent you choose has a fiduciary duty to you—their client. This means they must act in your best interests, so be absolutely confident they are “The One.”

The Buyer’s Quest: Searching for the Perfect Match

As a buyer, you’re the one looking for a long-term commitment—with a property. You’ll be viewing countless “profiles” online and going on many “first dates” (open homes).

The Real Estate Agent: The Event Host, Not Your Matchmaker

It’s crucial to remember that the agent is the host of the event. They are friendly, facilitate the introductions, and provide information. But their loyalty is to the seller, who is paying them. While they must treat you fairly and honestly, they are not your agent. You are, in essence, dating their client’s property.

Falling in Love vs. Making a Smart Choice

It’s easy to get swept up in the romance of a beautiful kitchen or a stunning view. But love at first sight can be dangerous in property. This is where you need to take a step back and do your homework before making a proposal. A prudent purchaser will undertake a range of inquiries before committing.

Your Move: Before you even think about making an offer, you need a trusted advisor to run a background check. And that’s where your lawyer steps in.

Your Ultimate Wingman: Why Our Team at Wakefields Lawyers is Your Best Friend

Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, your lawyer is the indispensable best friend who tells you the unvarnished truth and protects you at every turn.

For the Seller:

Before you make it official with an agent, we vet the “relationship contract” (the agency agreement). This is a critical legal document—an agent can’t recover their commission without a valid written appointment, so its terms must be perfect. When the offers (the “proposals”) come in, we ensure the Sale and Purchase agreement protects you.

For the Buyer:

Before you declare your love and sign an offer, we are your shield. We conduct the deep-dive background check on the property you’ve fallen for, review the title for hidden baggage, interpret the LIM report, and craft a “prenup” (the Sale and Purchase Agreement) with conditions that protect your interests and your deposit. A signed agreement is a binding contract, so our advice before you sign is the most valuable you will receive.

Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?

Navigating the property market doesn’t have to be a game of chance. With the right team, you can move forward with confidence and clarity.

The property law experts at Wakefields Lawyers have been the trusted wingman for thousands of sellers and buyers across New Zealand. We make the complex simple, providing pragmatic, clear advice to help you achieve your goals.

Whether you’re about to start speed-dating agents or you think you’ve found “The One,” contact us first. Let’s make sure your next relationship is a successful one.

Contact the Wakefields Lawyers Property Law team today by calling 0800 LEGAL1 or emailing info@wakefieldslaw.com.

• Corinna Sippel (Solicitor)
• Tonya Kirkbeck (Legal Executive)