Buying guide

How much below asking price should you offer on a house in NZ?

Thinking of lowballing a house offer? Experts share how much less you can offer and when it works.

Hannah Hilliam
Last updated: 24 September 2025 | 4 min read
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Thinking of making a low offer on a house? Experts warn against "silly bids" that can alienate sellers. Your offer should be a "conversation opener," not one that ends negotiations before they start.

While the market has softened, vendors expect realistic bids, especially if they've already dropped their price. Understanding the seller's motivation is crucial. Cash offers may provide some leverage, but research from CoreLogic suggests waiting for further price drops might not yield significant savings if interest rates rise.

Aim for a “conversation opener,” not a “conversation killer”

53 Brougham Street, Mount Victoria, Wellington

How much less should you offer on a house?

30 Arama Avenue, Titirangi, Waitakere City, Auckland

Understand the seller’s motivation

6A Colenso Place, Mission Bay, Auckland City, Auckland

Is it OK to lowball a house offer?

Should you wait for prices to fall further?

Final say

Author

Hannah Hilliam Hannah Hilliam
Content Writer