Why auctions are good for both buyers and sellers

Ray White’s first office, in rural Queensland’s Crows Nest, was emblazoned with the word “Auctioneer” on its front. The entire family history has been based on creating competitive situations for its vendors. Auctions have proudly been part of the fabric of the fourth generation, family-owned and led business since 1902.

In 2025, Ray White called one in four auctions in Australia; this isn’t by accident.

Ray White’s commitment to auctions over the years has seen auctioneers embedded within the business across Australia and New Zealand, spruiking its value, training its agents in auctions, rewarding auction excellence, and underpinning the selling process to deliver the best possible outcome for customers.

So why, when arguably the auction method drives up competition and price, is it still the best method of sale for a buyer?

“Buyers desire transparency in the market; they prioritise making informed decisions and getting fair value,” said Mr Morris.

“Without transparency, buyers risk overpaying or being outmaneuvered by undisclosed offers.”

With increased access to technology and data, this desire for transparency has evolved and intensified. Buyers now not only expect clarity on the property itself, but on price and comparable sales.

“Online property portals, social media, comparables and market trends are all in the hands of the buyer,” Mr Morris continued.

“It’s rare when a buyer doesn’t come to an open home equipped with the facts. The ‘information asymmetry’ that used to favour the agents no longer exists.”

Ray White not only acknowledges this, it pre-empts it, placing buyers in the same category of lead as a potential seller, understanding that building relationships and ensuring transparency is the cornerstone of ongoing business and referrals.

Auctions also provide a level playing field for buyers.

“At auction, every bid is out in the open and fully transparent”, said Eddy Piddington of Ray White Northern Beaches, an accomplished agent and advocate for the auction method.

"The real-time value of the property is on display for all bidders to see, and all information will be exposed very quickly. You can see exactly what others are willing to pay, ensuring you're not overpaying and that the process is completely fair," he continued.

"There’s no guessing game of 'what did the last offer look like?' or back-and-forth negotiations that drag on for weeks. The price is determined in the open, and the rules are clear for everyone."

"If you’re ready to buy, an auction gives you a clear shot,” said Mr Piddington.

“You know that if the reserve is reached, it will sell unconditionally, on the day, eliminating uncertainty. You get to make a confident decision, rather than passively waiting around to hear from an agent. It’s a great way to put yourself in the driver’s seat; once you’ve done your homework and set your limit, the decision is yours.”