Feeling Unsure About That Pre-Auction Offer?
If you’re planning to sell your home at auction but a decent offer comes in early, it can feel like you’re being pulled in two directions. One part of you wants certainty. The other wonders, “What if I could get more?”
It’s a common fork in the road, and the stakes are real. Do you grab what’s on the table now, or hold out for auction day and hope competition drives the price higher?
This guide is here to help you work through it clearly, without the pressure or sales talk.
What’s the Real Difference Between Selling Before or at Auction?
Pre-Auction Offer:
- You skip auction day altogether.
- The buyer usually wants a quick result and might offer strong terms to lock it in.
- You’ll still need to negotiate, but things move faster.
- There’s less public competition, but also fewer eyes on your property.
Going to Auction:
- You set a public deadline and create a sense of urgency.
- Buyers know they’ll be bidding against others.
- There’s no price cap—if multiple people want your home, the price can jump.
- But it also comes with no guarantee. If the bids fall short, you might have to pass in or negotiate afterwards.
How Do You Know What’s Right for You?
That depends on your situation, your goals, and how the market’s behaving right now.
Here are a few things to consider:
1. Do You Have a Strong Offer Already?
If a buyer comes in with a fair price, flexible terms, and minimal conditions, it might be worth serious consideration, especially if the market’s cooling or you’re on a tight timeline.
2. Are You Comfortable With Risk?
Auctions can deliver incredible results, but they don’t suit every seller. If your home has broad appeal and there’s genuine buyer interest, an auction can give you leverage. If it’s more niche or timing is crucial, pre-auction might be the safer path.
3. How Competitive Is the Market in Your Area?
Some Gold Coast suburbs are seeing strong buyer demand; others are patchy. I’ll always tell you honestly where your home sits in the current climate, and what that means for your options.
Auction vs Pre-Auction: Decision Matrix
Step 1: Start With Your Priorities
Tick the options that match your current mindset:
| Your Priority | Best Fit |
| I want a quick, clean sale. | Pre-Auction |
| I’m happy to wait if it might mean a higher price. | Auction |
| Certainty is more important to me than risk. | Pre-Auction |
| I’m open to risk if there’s potential for more. | Auction |
| I don’t want to deal with open homes for weeks. | Pre-Auction |
| I want the widest exposure possible. | Auction |
| I’m worried the market is softening. | Pre-Auction |
| I’m in a hot suburb with lots of buyer interest. | Auction |
Step 2: Ask These Key Questions
1. How strong is the current pre-auction offer?
- ❏ Above what your agent’s estimated sale price range?
- ❏ Unconditional or flexible terms?
- ❏ Coming from a serious, finance-ready buyer?
If you ticked 2 or more, consider the offer seriously. If not, you may benefit from going to auction.
2. Is buyer competition expected to be high?
- ❏ Other interested parties already inspecting?
- ❏ High traffic online and strong open home numbers?
- ❏ Property type in demand in your area (e.g. family homes, beachside units)?
If yes to most, an auction could help you maximise the price.
Step 3: Use the Decision Flowchart
Q1: Have you received a solid pre-auction offer?
⬇️
Yes ➡️ Go to Q2
No ➡️ Go to Auction
Q2: Would you regret missing out on a higher price later?
⬇️
Yes ➡️ Go to Auction
No ➡️ Consider Pre-Auction Sale
📋 Step 4: Use This Seller’s Interview Checklist
When speaking with agents, ask:
- How many buyers are actively inspecting similar properties right now?
- What’s the current clearance rate for auctions in my suburb?
- Are there any comparable sales where pre-auction offers were accepted?
- If we decline this offer, how will you keep that buyer engaged?
- What’s your backup strategy if auction day falls short?
Step 5: Timeline Comparison
| Phase | Pre-Auction Sale | Auction Campaign |
| Property Listed | Week 1 | Week 1 |
| Offer Received | Week 1–2 | Week 2–3 (if any) |
| Negotiation & Acceptance | Week 1–2 | Week 4 (Auction Day) |
| Settlement Starts | Typically sooner | Typically within 30 days |
| Total Time on Market | 1–2 weeks | 4+ weeks |
Still Not Sure? You’re Not Alone
Plenty of sellers feel this way—and that’s completely normal. It’s your home, your future, and your call. The goal is to make a decision you’ll feel confident about, no matter what.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but with the right insight, you’ll land on the choice that suits you best.
Have questions or want to talk it through?
Reach out anytime. I’m happy to chat, no pressure.
Clarity beats pressure every time.
Let’s help you find the path that feels right.
Author – Craig Douglas
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
Are you ready for a casual chat?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD!
Phone me now, Craig Douglas 0418 189 963
Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced
Some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
Emerald Lakes
This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
