Col McIntyre, one of Canberra’s most recommended property auctioneers. Photo: Region Media.
The Australian property market has built a reputation as one of the most expensive in the world. Even a global pandemic did not cool it down – as we speak, property prices are accelerating from coast to coast. Indeed, recent estimates point to the total value of our residential real estate to be more than a staggering $9.1 trillion.
Here in Canberra, experts are predicting that house prices will grow at the highest rate of any Australian capital city this year. And, with plenty of gains to be had, it really is a seller’s market.
When it comes to property, many of us elect to play the long game. However, life does present some opportunities – some of which can only be realised with a property sale. Whether you are upsizing, downsizing, or offloading investments, achieving the right sale price can make all the difference.
With high clearance rates the region over, an auction sales approach does present some advantages. It allows sellers to protect their reserve, it creates urgency, and it can result in a quick, definitive sale.
But what are the qualities of a successful auction campaign? Some industry insiders would agree that comes down to three fundamental things: a well-executed marketing campaign, an exceptional team of real estate agents, and a stellar property auctioneer.
While many of us know a real estate agent or two, property auctioneers are a little harder to come by. As a profession, auctioneering has evolved to become a specialist realm within the real estate sector. The best auctioneers can preside over hundreds of auctions each year, offering an invaluable insight for selling your property.
If you’re embarking on an auction sale and looking to appoint an auctioneer, there are a few things to consider. Read on below to find out more.
What makes a great property auctioneer?
Property auctioneers are the conductors of sales, orchestrating momentum to achieve a price crescendo. Indeed, a great auctioneer can be the difference between simply achieving and exceeding your reserve price. Here are a few things to keep in mind while evaluating potential auctioneers for your property:
- Clear credentials. While it sounds like a given, it is essential to check that your auctioneer has all the right credentials. Things like qualifications, licensing and experience all demonstrate that he or she is equipped to handle the task at hand. In Canberra, property auctioneers must possess a real estate licence, issued by Access Canberra. If they practise interstate they may also hold an auctioneer’s accreditation. A prerequisite for licensing is a qualification in property development and management. Finally, consider their experience, and whether it matches your property sale needs.
- The ultimate salespeople. Great auctioneers are the ultimate salespeople. They are wonderful communicators who use charisma to command the attention of a crowd. They effortlessly engage with bidders and clients alike, putting both parties instantly at ease. The most talented auctioneers are emotionally intelligent, allowing them to read the room and act accordingly. Importantly, they have a data bank of tactics and signature lines to get bids going. The best auctioneers are also masterful behind the scenes. They are excellent negotiators who are able to work with individual buyers to lift bids away from the crowd. And, like most supreme salespeople, they know how to close a sale – and do so in style.
- Local market experts. The most talented property auctioneers are also accomplished local market experts. They know the area inside out – from historical trends and recent sales all the way down to the best local schools. When it comes to auctions, many agree that name recognition counts. So, look for an auctioneer with a history of strong recent sales in your suburb. Comb over statistics such as average days on the market, reserve rate achievement, and clearance rates for added peace of mind.
- Highly recommended. Great property auctioneers often come highly recommended. They have built a reputation within the regional property market and are well known – and liked – by others in their profession. Reviews, testimonials and references are a natural way to assess this, but so too are professional opinions. Speak to agencies in your area and enquire about recommended auctioneers.
- Personally compatible. A property is likely to be your most valued asset, so it makes sense to entrust its sale to an auctioneer with whom you are personally compatible. Each auctioneer will have their own signature style and way of operating that is quite personal. Consider your approach and who you think can best represent you. While everything above is important, ultimately you need to feel comfortable with your decision. That comfort comes from knowing you have chosen an auctioneer who will do what is best for your sale.
The best property auctioneers in Canberra
RiotACT’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on RiotACT and Facebook as well as maintained a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Colin McIntyre
With over twenty-fives experience in the real estate industry Colin McIntyre is positioned as one of the most experienced auctioneers in Canberra. As the principal and owner of McIntyre Property he has nurtured a team of market leading real estate agents and property managers known for their friendly professional approach and integrity.
Front and centre of their agency is the belief that people come first; and that property is secondary. This refreshing approach ensures that all clients receive the same high standards of service regardless of the monetary value of their home.
Colin believes that selling a home should be a fun and exciting experience. The team strive to ensure that auction proceedings are not only stress free – but that they also surpass expectations.
This steadfast focus on clients has resulted in numerous accolades and widespread industry recognition. Colin has been awarded Sales Agent of the Year on more than one occasion, with the agency awarded both Small and Medium Residential Agency of the Year.
When it comes to local market knowledge and regional expertise, Colin’s depth and breadth understanding is hard to beat. He has established a wide and varied professional network, ensuring each client has the best chance of obtaining the right price for their most valued possession – their home.
Many past clients attest to Colin’s honesty – with his down to earth nature and direct approach instantly putting them at ease. For an auctioneer who understands that the success of their work represents your future, Colin McIntyre is an excellent choice.
Recent client Julie had this to say about her experience auctioning her home, “My experience with Colin McIntyre was excellent. He is a highly experienced and very positive agent who achieved an outstanding result for me when he auctioned my home…. In fact, some of the attendees conveyed to me how much they enjoyed the auction, and one lady who I did not even know said, ‘that was the best auction I have ever been to’. For me it was evident right from the start that Col is the best in the business and produces ‘life changing’ results”
Jeremy Grobben
With almost a decade of real estate experience under his belt, seasoned auctioneer and sales agent Jeremy Grobben has what it takes to see properties sell under the hammer.
With a sharp client focus and ability to perform under pressure, Jeremy auctions properties with a vibrant, professional approach.
Jeremy – a skilled auctioneer at The Property Collective who helps people thrive through property – has showcased his talent at the Real Estate Industry (REI) of Australia auction competition. At The Property Collective, he takes clients to new heights and achieves the best possible price in all types of markets.
As an auctioneer, Jeremey placed finalist as a senior auctioneer for the REI in the ACT. He also placed finalised last year and in 2021 as a novice auctioneer.
What makes Jeremy a stand-out auctioneer? The ability to energise, be relatable, hold a conversation with buyers, keep track of numbers, and know when to yell ‘Sold’.
Jeremy’s impressive track record in highly competitive real estate covers residential, rural property, land, and off-the-plan apartment sales.
Deepika Chaudhury wrote on Google, “Our journey of selling was made so easy by Jeremy who took care of everything – photos, advertising, viewing, getting the best deal, and finally sorting things before the exchange.”
Alec Brown
Alec began his career in real estate in 2010 as a Sales Agent and quickly developed a passion for the auction process. Today, aside from success in residential sales, he is also recognised as one of the country’s leading auctioneers, being the first to represent the ACT in the finals of the Australasian Auctioneering Championships.
As one of the Sales Directors at Ray White Canberra, Alec has an in-depth understanding of the local market and possesses the varied skillsets required to excel in all market conditions. Committed to your best interests, Alec is a sound choice to ensure you achieve the best possible result for your property.
Kristy Anderson shared this review on Facebook, “Alec, Kaine and their team at Ray White were incredible through the whole process of selling our house. Alec went well and truly above and beyond with his service, they communicated with us every step of the way and we achieved an amazing result at Auction. I will never use another Agent when I am in the market for buying or selling again.”
Jason Roses
Award-winning agent, auctioneer and co-founder of progressive real estate agency Verv Property, Jason Roses has been in real estate for over a decade. One of Canberra’s leading auction agents, Jason achieves the best sales price with every property. He has won the Real Estate Institute of the ACT’s Auctioneer of the Year award twice.
Alexander Moulis wrote on Google, “Working with Verv on the sale of my property was a seamless and problem-free experience. Jason was energetic ... Highly recommend.”
Andrew Potts
As a licensed agent and auctioneer, Andrew Potts has built a stellar reputation for delivering outstanding results for his clients. With over fifteen years’ industry experience, Andrew has achieved numerous accomplishments along the way.
Andrew also presents a commercial acumen, with a background in the accounting and finance industry and a Bachelor of Commerce specialising in accounting. With over 80% of clients from a referral base, Andrew Potts makes for an excellent choice.
Kristian Metcalf had this to say about her experience with Andrew Potts on Facebook, “Cannot fault Andrew's work ethic & the results speak for themselves.... 10/10.”
Frank Walmsley
With over two decades experience Frank Walmsley is a veteran auctioneer and auction strategist. In fact, his entire professional career has been built on helping people through negotiation; bet it through corporate sales or as a real estate agent and auctioneer.
With hundreds of auctions under his belt Frank has established a reputation for his professionalism and tactical skill. Operating on both sides of the hammer he assists both sellers and buyers with the auction process. For skilled finesse and the knowledge that only comes with experience look to Frank Walmsley.
Katie Ekin-Smyth shared her experience with Frank on Google, “Frank was absolutely amazing. Very experienced and knowledgeable. Great sense of humour but also very professional. The result we had at auction exceeded our expectations. Highly recommend.”
For other services to assist in the sale of your property, consider our articles on the best real estate agents, the best commercial real estate agents, the best conveyancing lawyers, and the best mortgage brokers Canberra has to offer.
For regional-specific property assistance, you might like our articles on the best real estate agents in Woden, South Canberra, Tuggeranong, Belconnen, Gungahlin and North Canberra.
Your experience with property auctioneers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the property auctioneers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a property auctioneer do?
The role of an auctioneer is to facilitate negotiation and assist in driving the momentum of a property sale via auction. Ultimately, they aim to extract an optimum sale outcome by applying auctioneer tactics throughout the course of the auction.
What do auctioneer’s charge?
Generally, you can expect to pay between $400 to $1,000 for an auctioneer to assist in the sale of your home. This rate typically varies dependent on location, experience, and choice of real estate agency. For an accurate estimate consult your local auctioneer.
What questions should I ask an auctioneer prior to hiring?
Prior to hiring any property auctioneer, it is work asking a few questions to help assess their style and skill set. Basics like commission rate and whether a consultation is included in the service are important. So too is their area of expertise, so be sure to find out about other events they have worked across and whether you can access any videos of the auctions. Moreover, get an understanding of the geographical area they typically operate in, and references. Finally, understand their auction strategy for your property, along with what they would do in the event of slow interest or competitive buyers.
What is a seller bid and how can it be used?
A seller bid is a single bid that can be made on behalf of a seller to stimulate bidder interest or raise the price of a property during an auction. Whilst a seller bid is legal, it needs to adhere to a set of conditions and must be announced by the auctioneer before the auction starts and before or whilst making the bid itself. For further details consult your real estate agent or auctioneer.
Does a cooling off period apply when selling via auction?
Unlike private treaty property sales, the statutory five day cooling off period does not apply for property sales via auction. Generally, the property is considered sold when the reserve price is met or exceeded; and in the instance of no reserve when it goes to the highest bidder.
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