While farms can be sold year round, autumn is a particularly good time to consider going to market.

Jamie Mackay from The Country said that 2023 started off strong, and while prices may stabilise (due to interest rates and costs on the farm), genuine demand for the rural property market has been reported by REINZ in early autumn - particularly when it comes to increased inter-regional enquiry in several locations.

Tis’ the season for change

From career changes to selling houses, this is the most common time of the year for people to make big decisions. And buying and selling a farm is no different. After the busyness of summer and the school holidays, it’s when everyone can take time to think about their next move - and it’s something you can capitalise on. Just as you’re ready for change, other people are too.

Capture in the best light

Autumn is typically a flattering time to be taking photos of farms and rural land - making it ideal to be capturing material for marketing.

The weather is usually more settled in autumn and depending on rainfall, pasture, vegetation and foliage should be looking healthy through the lens. The autumn light is also great for photography, making for some spectacular, eye-catching shots for the sales campaign.

Less competition in the market

With many vendors waiting for the spring to sell up, it often means there are less listings to compete against. This can help maximise viewings of your rural property for sale, which may assist in securing a buyer faster and/or ensure you get the price you’re looking for.

Tips for a successful farm sale

Create a great first impression. While a tidy and welcoming driveway and front entrance won’t be the main selling point of your property, it certainly won’t hurt to ensure things look appealing to potential buyers. This could have a bearing on how they view the rest of your farm - whether that be positive or otherwise.
Maintenance is absolutely essential when it comes to selling a farm or rural property. Write a list of priorities and work your way through them to make sure anything that is broken or tired is repaired or replaced. You don’t want to overcapitalise on improvements made, but everything they see will add up to an overall perception of the farm’s value. Will it be good, or not so great?
Go over all your paperwork to make sure everything is in order - remove any unnecessary hold-ups that could get in the way of a sale. Things such as farm accounts, record of title and size, the land use and purpose, water consents, resource consents, compliance records and anything else that a potential buyer will want to know.
You should also make a detailed list of everything that is included in the farm sale as well as the physical characteristics of the property . From stock to infrastructure, dwellings, chattels, equipment, soil type and condition, typography, elevation, climate, seasonal patterns etc. You may also have applications, automation and other systems that are vital to the efficient running of the farm.
Remember, you and your agent are obligated to disclose information such as covenants, easements, protected areas (whether of cultural or natural significance) and boundary issues (if applicable). And providing this upfront helps to build your credibility as a vendor.
Think outside the farm gate. What is the local community like, schooling, amenities etc. These are also selling points of the property and for people who are new to the area, they will be considering these elements to gain a full picture of your farm or rural property for sale.

We’ve sold thousands of rural properties and farms, right across New Zealand, providing our team with the knowledge and expertise to help you make the next best move in your property journey. So if you’re wondering whether now is the time to sell your rural property or farm, simply reach out to your nearest office and we’ll guide you on where to go from there.