Q&A with Vanessa Bolton from Martelli Buyer's Agents

Where do you see the greatest value in using a buyer's agent? 

Answer: I feel the greatest value comes from our negotiation skills, market knowledge, and detailed due diligence on every property. Understanding the local comparable sales, accurately assessing homes value, and advising clients on how much to pay is especially valuable in auctions and multi-offer situations. Our international clients put a lot of trust in us to ensure we are selecting the best homes for them and buying the right property.

What has been your favourite client search? 

Answer: One of my favourite property searches was for a client moving from Germany who had really aligned their budget to their preferred location and property brief. Because their expectations matched the market, we were able to secure an excellent-quality home in their desired location and school zone. Having realistic expectations and a budget that reflects current market conditions makes it much easier to achieve an outstanding result and gives buyers access to a much stronger selection of suitable properties.

Which clients do you enjoy working with the most? 

Answer: I really enjoy working with our overseas clients. Helping them find the right home is incredibly rewarding because they place a great deal of trust in our expertise throughout the process. These are clients purchasing a home where they will build their lives, create memories, and establish themselves in New Zealand. Being able to guide them through such an important milestone and help them make a confident, well-informed decision makes the work especially meaningful.

What has been your greatest success story?

Answer: One of my proudest achievements was spotting a critical issue during our due diligence that had been overlooked by both the sales agent and the lawyer. Had it gone unnoticed, our Australian client could have faced costs of up to $300,000 and the potential confiscation of their property under the OIO rules. Identifying this risk before the purchase was an incredibly rewarding moment and reinforced the importance of the thorough due diligence we provide. Our client was extremely grateful for our work and provided an outstanding testimonial, making the outcome even more satisfying.

What inspired you to become a buyer's agent?

Answer: I find the relationship with buyers very rewarding. You become so involved throughout their journey to find a property. It's more rewarding because clients genuinely appreciate the time, effort, and expertise you’ve invested in helping them purchase the right property. You get to know them and their needs so well.

How would you describe your negotiation style? 

Answer: My negotiation style is flexible because every property and every negotiation is different. Whether it's an auction, multi-offer, or private treaty sale, the strategy changes depending on market conditions, competition, and the client's circumstances. There isn't one fixed negotiation style - it's about adapting to each situation.