Buying your first home is exciting, and it can feel like there is a lot to learn at once. Understanding your budget, getting good advice and taking time to investigate a property can help you make decisions with confidence. Our Te Anau team is here to help you explore the local market and understand the buying process.
Talk to a lender or mortgage adviser about your deposit, borrowing options, repayments and any conditions attached to an approval. Allow for more than the purchase price: legal advice, inspections, insurance, moving costs, rates, maintenance and a buffer for unexpected expenses can all matter. The amount a lender may offer is not necessarily the amount that feels comfortable for your household.
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to use eligible KiwiSaver savings towards a first home. Government assistance and lending criteria can change, so check current information with Kāinga Ora, your KiwiSaver provider and your lender before relying on any scheme or withdrawal. Ask what evidence, timing and conditions apply to you.
A lawyer or conveyancer can explain a sale and purchase agreement and protect your interests. Depending on the property, you may also want an independent building inspector, registered valuer, insurance adviser or other specialist. Ask about their costs and availability before you make an offer, especially if deadlines are tight.
Consider your priorities for location, space, layout, heating, maintenance, outdoor areas, parking and future plans. Visit properties, ask questions and compare what is included. Take a second look where possible and consider how the property works at different times of day. Browse homes for sale and upcoming open homes.
Investigations vary with the property. They may include a building inspection, council information and consents, title, boundaries, insurance, lending and any covenants or shared arrangements. A salesperson can provide information, but your independent advisers can help you decide what checks you need. Settled.govt.nz, from the Real Estate Authority, provides independent guidance for buyers.
An auction, deadline sale, negotiation or advertised price can involve different processes and timeframes. If you are considering an auction, discuss the auction terms and your finance and due diligence beforehand. For a written offer, your lawyer can explain the price, deposit, settlement date, conditions and deadlines before you sign. An accepted agreement may become binding even while some conditions remain outstanding.
Work with your lawyer, lender and any specialists to meet the conditions and dates in your agreement. Arrange insurance and moving plans in good time, and discuss any pre-settlement inspection with your advisers. Your lawyer will guide you through settlement and the transfer of ownership.
Whether you are just beginning or ready to view, Stephanie Jones and the Ray White Te Anau team can help you explore available properties. Read our Te Anau buying guide, call 03 249 8989 or use the form below.