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Introduction
Legal and Negotiation Processes
Preparation and Planning
Settlement and Post-Purchase
The Market and Compliance
Viewing and Inspecting Properties

01.
 
How To Use The Step Guides
02.
 
Buyer Introduction
03.
 
Your Current Scenario
04.
 
Understanding Real Estate Market Dynamics and Influences
05.
 
Assessing the Benefits of Owning vs. Renting
06.
 
Assessing Your Readiness and Financial Planning for Homeownership
07.
 
Establishing a Budget for Property Purchase
08.
 
Deciding to Work With A Mortgage or Financial Adviser
09.
 
Deciding on Whether to Proceed with Home Buying
10.
 
Analysing Financial Capacity for a Mortgage in New Zealand
11.
 
Getting Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
12.
 
Proceeding As a Cash Buyer
13.
 
Consider Utilising a Home Buying Service
14.
 
Attending Property Seminars and Workshops
15.
 
Exploring Various Mortgage Options in New Zealand
16.
 
Property Sale Types in New Zealand
17.
 
Anti Money Laundering Rules and Regulations
18.
 
Determining Long-Term Goals and Future Plans for Property Buying
19.
 
Costs Associated with Buying a Property

20.
 
Creating a List of Must-Haves and Nice-to-Haves
21.
 
Potential Purchasing Partners for Property Buying
22.
 
Researching the Housing Market in Your Desired Area
23.
 
Location and Commuting
24.
 
Understanding Property Taxes in New Zealand
25.
 
How to Compare The Values of Similar Properties
26.
 
Exploring Property Listings and Conducting Online Research for Buying Property
27.
 
Interacting with Real Estate Agents
28.
 
Arranging Private Viewings of Properties
29.
 
Arranging Professional Property Inspections
30.
 
Guide to Attending Open Homes and Viewing Properties
31.
 
Seeking Comprehensive Legal Advice Before Making an Offer
32.
 
Choosing the Right Conveyancing Lawyer when Buying Property
33.
 
Understanding Legal Obligations and Rights as a Buyer
34.
 
Considering Community Amenities and Infrastructure
35.
 
Conditional Offers Versus Unconditional Offers
36.
 
Formulating an Offer Strategy
37.
 
Buying a Property at Auction
38.
 
Auction Bidding Services: Expert Representation for Your Property Purchase
39.
 
Buyer First Mover Advantage Offer Strategy
40.
 
Engaging in Negotiation of Purchase Terms
41.
 
Ensuring Compliance with Agreement Conditions When Buying Property
42.
 
Discussing Agreement Details with Your Legal Advisor
43.
 
Undertaking a Geotechnical Report
44.
 
Reviewing Property Inspection Reports for Potential Issues
45.
 
Requesting and Analysing a LIM Report
46.
 
Requesting and Analysing a PIM Report
47.
 
Things to Do During Due Diligence Period to Prepare for Move
48.
 
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using a Moving Company
49.
 
Organising Home and Contents Insurance
50.
 
Settlement Day Procedures
51.
 
How to Deal With Settlement Delays in Property Transactions
52.
 
Planning Interior Layout and Design
53.
 
Settling In and Post Purchase Steps
54.
 
Purchasing Necessary Furniture and Appliances
55.
 
Tools and Services To Help Manage Your Property & Finances Post Purchase
56.
 
Re-evaluating Your Budget Three Months Post-Property Settlement

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Buy / Step 19 of 56

Costs Associated with Buying a Property

More than just the purchase price

The process of buying a home involves much more than simply paying the purchase price. There are several additional costs that can catch first-time buyers off-guard if they're not adequately prepared. From legal fees to home insurance, these expenses should be considered when budgeting for your purchase.

Understanding the Additional Costs

These services come at a cost which varies based on several factors including experience, location and complexity of your property transaction. Typically, legal fees can range anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 or more.

While this may seem like an additional burden on your budget, remember that these experts provide invaluable assistance throughout your home buying process. Their knowledge and skills can prevent potential legal pitfalls and ensure that you make a solid investment.

Never underestimate the importance of factoring in legal fees when budgeting for your house purchase. This investment will prove worth every penny as it safeguards your property purchase, providing you with peace of mind and a smooth transaction.

In New Zealand, like many other places, sale and purchase of property requires the professional legal assistance of solicitors or conveyancers. Their role is multifaceted and can significantly ease the burden of paperwork and legal considerations.

Reviewing the Sale and Purchase Agreement

The Sale and Purchase Agreement forms the backbone of your property transaction. This document houses all the terms and conditions related to the sale, making it a crucial piece of paper that requires meticulous examination. Your solicitor or conveyancer will perform an in-depth review of this agreement to ensure:

  • All details are correct and up to date
  • The agreement complies with all relevant laws
  • It protects your interests and doesn't contain any hidden clauses that might be unfavourable to you.

Simply put, they ensure that everything is in order and legally sound.

Conducting Title Searches

A title search is a pivotal part of property buying as it uncovers any potential issues with the property's title. These could include legal problems such as liens (a claim by a creditor on a property as security for a debt) or easements (a right held by someone to use the land of another for a specific purpose). These issues could affect your rights as an owner, causing complications down the line. There is a title requisition clause in the Sale and Purchase Agreement as a standard clause - refer to 6.2 of the standard Sale & Purchase Agreement. Allows for 10 working days.

Solicitors or conveyancers carry out exhaustive title searches to identify:

  • Any existing claims on the property
  • Whether there are restrictions on using the property
  • If there are outstanding rates or taxes on the property.

Their investigation ensures there are no legal obstacles that could hinder your ownership rights.

Facilitating the Transfer of Ownership

Transferring ownership isn't merely about handing over keys; it involves intricate paperwork and legal compliance. Solicitors or conveyancers manage all aspects of this process, ensuring everything complies with local laws and regulations.

  • Preparing and lodging documents, including the transfer of land document and notice of acquisition
  • Managing settlement procedures between you, the seller, financial institutions and other stakeholders to arrange for the final settlement.
  • Working to ensure a smooth transition of ownership from the seller to you, providing peace of mind in what can often be a stressful process.

When navigating the process of purchasing a property, it's essential to remember that "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." This rings particularly true when considering the potential financial implications of unforeseen property repairs and maintenance.

A key step in this preventive approach is conducting a thorough building inspection. Think of this as a health check for your potential home, aiming to uncover any hidden ailments before they cause significant damage.

Understanding the Scope of a Building Inspection

The scope of an inspection typically includes, but is not limited to:

Structural Integrity: The stability of foundational elements, walls and roof frames, looking for signs of damage or instability that could compromise the property's safety or value.

Potential Safety Hazards: Checking for hazards such as asbestos, lead-based paint, mould growth or radon gas – all of which can pose serious health risks if left unchecked.

Electrical Systems: Inspectors evaluate the wiring, circuit breakers, outlets and lighting fixtures to ensure they meet New Zealand's safety standards.

Plumbing Issues: Identifying issues like leaks, outdated pipes or insufficient water pressure.

Condition of Appliances and Fixtures: Built-in appliances and fixtures like heaters, air conditioning units and fireplaces are also part of the inspection. Their functionality and lifespan contribute to the overall value of the house.

Signs of Pest Infestations: Inspectors look for telltale signs of unwanted pests such as droppings or structural damages caused by termites or rodents.

Such problems could range from minor cosmetic defects to major structural concerns that could cost you substantially in repairs down the line.

Note: A building inspection isn't just about identifying problems. It's about understanding the property better, making sure your investment is sound, and planning for future maintenance. So, it's always a smart move to include this step in your home buying journey.

The cost of a building inspection typically ranges from approximately $400 to $800. This price can vary based on factors such as:

  • Size and age of the property
  • Location of the property
  • The required turn-around time for the report
  • Specific items included in the inspection
  • The level of detail provided in the inspection report

In essence, allocating funds for a comprehensive building inspection is not only an investment in your future home but also your financial security and peace of mind.

When applying for a mortgage, banks and other lending institutions often charge an application fee. This covers the cost of processing your application and credit checks. Loan application fees vary by lender but expect them to be around $250 to $500.

The actual move to your new home comes with its own set of costs. Hiring professional movers ensures that your belongings are transported safely and can help alleviate some of the stress associated with moving day. Depending on how far you're moving and how much stuff you have, moving expenses can range from a few hundred dollars for local moves to several thousand for longer distances.

Securing home insurance is non-negotiable when owning property; it safeguards your investment against unforeseen events such as natural disasters or accidental damage. The cost of home insurance will depend on factors like the location and value of your property, but budgeting for this annual expense is essential.


Factoring Additional Costs Into Your Budget


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