Auction vs. private-treaty sale

A private-treaty sale relies on a fixed asking price and one-to-one negotiation, often over months, with the risk of gazumping or a buyer withdrawing. An auction compresses that into a defined window where committed buyers compete openly.

The trade-off: an auction gives speed, transparency and a binding result, and can push the price above a guide when demand is strong. A private sale offers a quieter, more flexible timeline. Many sellers choose an auction precisely for the certainty of a firm close.

• Auction: fast, open, binding — price set by real competition.
• Private treaty: flexible pace, but slower and prone to fall-throughs.
• Both complete the same way, at a Swiss notary.

General information, not legal advice.