Christies Beach 
In a competitive property market, the way a home is advertised can make a big difference — not only in how much interest it receives but also in how buyers experience the process. One controversial practice that sometimes causes confusion and disappointment is under quoting.
But what exactly is it? And why does it matter so much?
What Is under quoting?
Under quoting is when a property is advertised with a price guide that’s significantly below the vendor’s actual expectations or the property’s estimated selling price. The goal? Often, it’s to attract more attention, get more buyers through the door, and create the illusion of affordability.
But here’s the issue — This deliberate act misleads buyers and wastes their time. It can cause heartache for people who are seriously looking for a home within a set budget, only to find the property sells for far more than they were led to believe. This is not to be confused whereby a unique or special property sells for a price in excess of the agency and vendors genuine expectations due to very strong market interest.
Is Under quoting Legal?
No — under quoting is an illegal practice. In South Australia and other states, real estate laws are in place to protect buyers and ensure that the price advertised reflects a fair and honest representation of market expectations.
Agencies found engaging in underquoting can face serious penalties, including fines and damage to their reputation.
How Can Buyers Protect Themselves?
If you’re a buyer, here are a few tips to protect yourself:
- Do your own research: Look at recent comparable sales in the area.
- Ask direct questions: Inquire about the vendor’s price expectations and the basis for the price guide.
- Be cautious of “too good to be true” listings: If the price seems unusually low, there may be more to the story.
- Engage a buyer’s agent or an independent agent (different company from the selling agent) or conveyancer early: They can offer professional insights and guidance.
A Word to Vendors: Why Fairness Matters
While it might be tempting to list a property lower to create more buzz, we encourage vendors to consider the bigger picture. Transparency builds trust — and in a time when many families, first-home buyers, and individuals are doing everything they can to secure a home, empathy goes a long way.
Accurate and honest price guides not only protect the integrity of the sale process, they also reflect positively on you as a seller. At Professionals Christies Beach, we believe in doing things the right way — putting people first and keeping things fair.
Looking for an honest and supportive team to guide you through buying or selling?
Whether you are house hunting or thinking of selling, we are here to help — with transparency, heart, and your best interests in mind.
📞 Contact us today to chat about your goals or get advice tailored to your situation 08 8382 3773.
