What you need to know about multiple offer scenarios

A multiple offer occurs when more than one prospective buyer makes an offer on a property by submitting a Contract of Sale.

The REIQ often receives queries from consumers about multiple offers on a property.

Multiple offers often happen in a seller's market when competition for residential property is greatest and there are more buyers than there are properties for sale. However, it can occur in any market and especially for properties within an affordable price range.

REIQ accredited agencies have been reporting increasing instances of multiple offers in some areas as the stock of affordable properties becomes depleted.

Occasionally prospective buyers have alleged that agents tell them there is another offer on the property in order to secure a higher price for the seller, when in fact there is no competing offer.

There are heavy penalties for agents who mislead or deceive buyers by telling them there are competing offers when there are not.

SEE ALSO: Eight Steps For Buying Property

This gives potential buyers an opportunity to submit an offer if they have not already done so, or to revise an existing offer that has not yet been accepted by the seller.

Agents also have a statutory obligation to attempt to get the highest possible price for the seller.

Buyers should also be aware that sellers will examine all the terms and conditions of each offer before deciding to accept or reject any particular offer.

The conditions can make certain offers more attractive for reasons other than the proposed price alone.

Some sellers may be prepared to accept a lower price if the offer is unconditional rather than take the risk that a higher offer may not proceed to settlement, because of the special conditions required by a buyer.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this fact sheet is provided for general information purposes only. The information should not be used or relied on as a substitute for legal advice. If you require legal advice concerning a specific fact or situation, you should seek independent legal advice. REIQ accepts no liability or responsibility for any loss occurring as a result of anyone acting or refraining from acting on the basis of the information contained herein. Whilst REIQ has taken all reasonable measures to ensure that the information contained in this fact sheet is correct, REIQ gives no warranty and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or the completeness of the information.