Navigating low clearance rate auctions in the ACT: what you need to know and how we can help

Buying property at auction can be an exhilarating experience—but it’s not without its complexities. With no cooling-off period and legally binding conditions the moment the hammer falls, it’s essential to be fully prepared before stepping into the auction arena. Whether you're a first-home buyer or an experienced investor, if you're buying in Canberra, the right support can make all the difference.

At Hyde Burchell Buyers Agents, we’re here to guide you through the auction process with confidence—from pre-auction preparation to post-auction negotiation—and ensure your interests are protected every step of the way.

A lot of buyers don’t like the auction process, but auctions can offer a transparent and efficient way to purchase property. Unlike private treaty sales, where negotiations can drag out or fall through, auctions offer certainty: if you're the winning bidder and the reserve is met, the property is yours.

But that certainty cuts both ways. In the ACT, auction purchases are unconditional—there’s no cooling-off period, and you’re expected to sign the contract and pay the deposit immediately after the auction. That’s why preparation is critical.

At the moment, auction clearance rates in the ACT are sitting around 50%, meaning that many properties are being passed in—not selling under the hammer. This presents a unique opportunity for buyers. When a property doesn't sell at auction, post-auction negotiations can lead to excellent outcomes but only if you have strong negotiation skills, expert guidance on your side, and know what steps to take to secure what's called the first right of refusal.

Understanding First Right of Refusal

If a property is passed in and you were the highest bidder (even if it was below reserve), you’ll be offered the first opportunity to negotiate with the seller before the property is opened up to other potential buyers. This is a key moment where timing, preparation, and negotiation skills are critical.

Many buyers are unaware that this is often the point where the deal is done in this type of market—not during the auction, but after. Knowing how to approach this conversation, what leverage you have, and how to structure negotiations can make or break your success.

At Hyde Burchell Buyers Agents, we help you strategically plan for this possibility, so you don’t just walk away when the gavel doesn’t fall in your favour—you walk toward an even better opportunity.

Pre-Auction Prep: Why It Matters More Than Ever

With more properties being passed in, you might assume the pressure is off—but in fact, it’s more important than ever to have your ducks in a row before auction day.

Here’s what we recommend every buyer do before bidding:

Get pre-approved finance: Know exactly what you can afford so you can act decisively on the day.
Review the contract: We can refer you to a qualified ACT solicitor or conveyancer to go through the legal documents with a fine-tooth comb.
Organise additional building & pest inspections: As auction sales are unconditional, you need to do due diligence ahead of time.
Know the local market: We’ll help you analyse comparable sales and identify red flags, so you don’t overpay or under-prepare.

Post-Auction Negotiation: Where the Real Deals Happen

With clearance rates as low as they are, post-auction negotiation is no longer a backup plan—it’s a strategic opportunity.

This is where working with Hyde Burchell Buyers Agents can really set you apart. We know how to:

Position you as the preferred buyer
Navigate fast-moving post-auction negotiations
Advise on offer structure, terms, & timing
Work closely with your legal team to facilitate a smooth exchange

If you’re not confident in your ability to negotiate effectively under pressure, we’ve got your back.

We bring deep local knowledge, experience in Canberra’s unique market dynamics, and a proven

track record of getting results in both on-market and post-auction situations.

How We Can Help You Win—Before, During, or After Auction

At Hyde Burchell Buyers Agents, we do more than just bid on auction day. We are your advocate, advisor, and negotiator from the moment you start searching to the moment you get the keys.

Here’s how we help auction buyers:

Pre-auction strategy & planning
Referral to trusted ACT solicitors for contract review
Due diligence support, including inspections & market analysis
On-the-day auction representation
Post-auction negotiation expertise
Ongoing guidance through to settlement

In a market where auctions aren’t always clearing, the real value lies in preparation and knowing what to do after the auction. Whether you're the highest bidder or you're watching from the sidelines, the opportunities are there—if you know how to take them and we’re here to ensure you’re one step ahead—before, during, and after the auction.

Thinking of buying at auction in the ACT? Get in touch with our team to see how we can help you move forward. Smart decisions start with solid advice. Let’s get you auction-ready.