Barfoot & Thompson launches a first in New Zealand property marketing with First Look

Barfoot & Thompson has launched a new four-stage marketing programme that gives buyers an early look at selected Barfoot & Thompson listings and sellers another way to begin marketing their property.
First Look taps into Barfoot & Thompson’s network of more than 1,800 salespeople across 88 branches to introduce properties to buyers already looking with the company, ahead of the seller’s wider marketing campaign. First Look can also suit vendors who want more control over their marketing costs or who need more flexibility around timing and visibility than a traditional sales campaign might provide.
It is the first programme of its kind in New Zealand to formalise early-market exposure through staged marketing options across a sales network of this scale.
Before progressing towards a full market release, properties in the First Look programme are first shared within the Barfoot & Thompson network, then shown behind login on barfoot.co.nz, where registered buyers can receive an alert when their saved search suggests a match.
Barfoot & Thompson Director Henry Barfoot says the programme builds on the many conversations and connections happening across the company every day.
“Our salespeople are always working to connect sellers and buyers as soon as possible. First Look brings that work together in a more structured, step-by-step approach and at a scale that is unique in New Zealand.
“It puts our network’s collective reach to work from day one, giving sellers more options and active buyers an edge.”
Registered buyers get an earlier look
Buyers can register for First Look for free at barfoot.co.nz/firstlook.
A First Look property is initially shared across Barfoot & Thompson’s 88-branch network in Auckland, Northland, the Bay of Plenty and Waikato, allowing salespeople to introduce it to buyers already looking for a home like it.
It can then be viewed behind a login on the Barfoot & Thompson website by registered First Look buyers, who receive an alert when a property matches their saved search.
“It’s easy for buyers to register for First Look on our website. They simply complete their buyer profile and create a saved search using their preferred location, price range and property features.
“When we have a First Look home that meets their wish list, they’ll receive an automatic email and be among the first to know,” says Henry.
Another way for sellers to reach buyers
Sellers can opt into First Look with their salesperson.
Their property is first introduced through the Barfoot & Thompson network, before progressing through the remaining stages as the seller chooses.
A full-market launch remains available as one of the four stages, and sellers stay in control throughout, says Henry.
At each stage, the seller and their salesperson can review enquiries, viewings and any offers, before deciding what to do next.
“For some vendors, the best outcome may come without needing a full-market launch. For others, First Look offers valuable feedback before taking the next step.
“While a full-market campaign will remain the right approach for many properties, First Look expands our offering by providing sellers with another way to reach buyers.”
Are you thinking of buying or selling a property?
- Buy or sell your home with First Look - find out how
- Find your local salesperson here
- Find your local branch here
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