auction vs listing auction vs listing

Selling at Auction vs. Listing

When you work with Kaufman Realty & Auctions, you’ve got options. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of selling your home at auction versus listing your property, we can help. Read on to discover the differences and make the right choice for you.

Auctions 

Whether buying or selling, read on to find out why people choose an auction.  

For Buyers  

Pricing 

Buyers determine value. When selling a traditional listing, the asking price is only an estimation of value. If a property is listed too high, buyers will avoid it. If a property is listed too low, it will sell quickly but leave money on the table. Auctions gather all potential buyers of the property (in-person or digitally), allow them to bid for ownership and thereby determine a property’s true market value. 

Transparency  

Whether the auction is in person or online, the bidding is visible, ensuring integrity and transparency.  

Urgency  

Auctions are intense. Be prepared to know how to bid and be sure to plan your maximum bid ahead of time so you don’t get swept up in the excitement.  

Non-refundable  

Plan to pay a non-refundable deposit for the property in case you win the auction. The amount required for the down payment is available on the auction listing’s webpage.  

Diligence  

If you win the auction, you’re legally obligated to buy the building as-is. If you’re serious about purchasing the property, be sure to arrange for inspections ahead of time.  

For Sellers  

Pricing 

Properties often command a higher price at auction when the housing demand is high and there are few homes for sale on the market. This is especially true for unique properties.  

Speed  

While the sale of a listing can take days or weeks, a house can be sold at auction in a matter of minutes. Likewise, the closing date soon follows.  

Marketing 

Advertising your property is essential, especially for auctions, where it’s important to have the right people present. At Kaufman Realty & Auctions, we promote your property to attract a variety of interested buyers.  

Certainty  

Properties sold at auction are sold as-is with no refund. Sellers can have peace of mind, knowing that their sale is final.  

Listing 

Explore why buyers and sellers choose to list their property.  

For Buyers  

Pricing 

While the price is negotiable, in a tight housing market, buyers have less control over the price, especially if there are other families who are interested.  

Negotiation  

When you choose to sell by listing, it’s common to negotiate the price or for home improvements that you wish for the seller to make.  

Timeline 

A traditional listing purchase process is more relaxed. As a buyer, this allows you to do your due diligence and consider the decision.  

Deposits  

Deposits may be refundable, depending on the terms and contingencies of the contract, as well as the follow-through of the negotiated home improvements.  

Diligence  

Buyers have more time to schedule inspections before making an offer on the house.  

For Sellers 

Pricing  

Even though listing prices are negotiated, sellers often have more control over a listing price, since you can set the price and can accept or reject whatever offer you choose.  

Improvements  

It’s common for a sale to be contingent on a specific home improvement requested by the buyer. A real estate agent can ensure that all contingencies are documented. 

Timeline  

Listings can take anywhere from a few days to a few months to sell. Additionally, the closing process usually takes longer because it involves negotiated improvements to the home.   

Marketing  

Homes sold at auction and by listing both have marketing costs associated, but sellers who choose to list their homes spread the cost over the entire listing period.

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