Drawing on data from more than 53,000 residential properties listed and sold between 1 January 2024 and 31 May 2025, the study found that while the average asking price was $894,915, the average selling price was $898,845, putting an additional $3,930 into the hands of vendors.
The two price points were compared in the same month the property was officially sold, using sales data provided by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).
Vanessa Williams, spokesperson for realestate.co.nz, says the numbers suggest a key turning point for vendors.
“The last 18 months have been tough for sellers, but we are seeing that by the time their home sells, vendors are getting realistic with their price expectations. This seems to be having a surprisingly positive outcome, as they are ending up with slightly more than they bargained for.”
Of the 19 regions measured, eight recorded higher average selling prices than asking prices, while the other 11 still saw sale prices come in below vendor expectations.
However, the gains in several markets were substantial.
Wellington leads the pack
Wellington posted the strongest result nationwide. With an average asking price of $901,484, properties in the capital ultimately sold for an average of $918,668, a gain of $17,185 above expectations.
Canterbury and Gisborne followed closely.
Canterbury sellers pocketed $13,721 more than expected, with an average sale price of $759,715 compared to an asking price of $745,995.
In Gisborne, the average sale price came in at $704,256, or $11,835 above the average asking price of $692,420.
Some regions still missing the mark
Not every region shared in the upside. Coromandel, in particular, saw a significant shortfall between asking and selling prices.
On average, sellers in the region asked for $1,116,914 but settled for $1,071,241, a difference of $45,673.
Northland and Waikato also experienced notable price gaps, at -$14,117 and -$8,399, respectively.
“While we always want to see a deal taking place, the property market only functions when buyers and sellers are prepared to negotiate and make sacrifices,” says Ms Williams.
“With more properties on the market and prices holding steady, successful transactions often come down to pricing that both parties can agree upon and open negotiation.”
