Definition

Noun: A method of selling property where the price is directly negotiated and agreed upon between the seller and the buyer, without the involvement of an intermediary such as an auctioneer or a formal public bidding process.

Usage

This term is primarily used in the context of real estate, business, and asset sales. It describes a confidential, bilateral negotiation. - The house was sold by private treaty after several weeks of negotiation between the owner and a single interested buyer. - The company preferred a private treaty sale of its subsidiary to avoid the publicity and uncertainty of an auction.

Advanced Usage

• "To sell by private treaty": This is the standard phrase used to describe the action.
  • The artwork was sold by private treaty to a museum, rather than at a public auction.

Variants and Related Words

• Private sale: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably, though "private treaty" can imply a more formal written agreement.
• Off-market transaction: A related term, especially in real estate, emphasizing that the property was not publicly listed for sale.

Synonyms

• Direct sale
• Bilateral sale
• Negotiated sale

Antonyms

• Public auction
• Tender
• Foreclosure sale

Related Phrases

• Arm's length transaction: A deal made by unrelated parties, each acting in their own self-interest, which a private treaty sale often is.
• Confidentiality agreement: Often part of a private treaty sale to protect sensitive business information during negotiations.

Noun

1. a sale of property at a price agreed on by the seller and buyer without an intervening agency