Start with what the home needs to do for you, then check the property as carefully as the price. This online guide takes you from planning your search to settlement, with links to independent information for the decisions that need closer attention.
Separate essentials from preferences: bedrooms, access, outdoor space, maintenance, work and school routines. Talk to your lender or mortgage adviser about your borrowing position and the conditions of any approval. Allow for legal and inspection costs, insurance, rates, moving and work needed after purchase, as well as the deposit.
For a first home, begin those conversations before becoming committed to a property. If you may use KiwiSaver or another form of assistance, check current eligibility and timing with the responsible provider. Do not count on funds until their availability is confirmed. Read Settled’s buying resources and build your own support team.
Browse our residential listings and open homes. Keep notes so comparisons are based on more than the photographs. Check room layout, storage, sunlight, heating, ventilation, visible dampness, drainage and access. Notice nearby activity and noise. Ask what is included in the sale and what information is available.
Visit the street at different times if daily travel, parking or noise matters to you. An open home is an introduction, not a professional building inspection. Ask direct questions and follow up concerns with the appropriate specialist.
Ask your lawyer to review the title and explain shared driveways, easements, covenants, cross-lease or unit-title obligations where relevant. Understand the ownership structure before planning alterations or use of outdoor space.
For Christchurch property, review council information alongside what is on site. Christchurch City Council property files may include plans, consent records and completion documents. A property file and a LIM are different sources; ask your lawyer what to obtain and review. Neither replaces a physical inspection, and council records may be incomplete.
Request relevant earthquake claim, repair and insurance records. Check the property’s particular land and hazard information, insurance availability and any lender requirements. An area’s reputation or a neighbouring home’s history does not establish the condition of this property. See Settled’s property-research guidance for the checks to discuss.
Understand the sale method and closing arrangements. Obtain legal advice before signing, including on finance, inspection or other conditions you need. Compare relevant completed sales rather than treating an asking price or rating value as a promised market price.
The listing salesperson works for the seller. They can explain the process and available property information, while your own advisers help protect your interests. If there are multiple offers, ask how the process works and put forward terms you can honour.
For an auction property, use our separate buyer auction-preparation guide. Complete the necessary checks and finance arrangements before bidding; do not assume conditions can be added afterwards.
Keep track of conditions and deadlines with your lawyer. Arrange insurance and finance as required by your agreement and advisers. Plan the pre-settlement inspection, moving arrangements, services and key collection. Raise any concerns promptly through the appropriate people.
Call 03 359 0384 or visit our team directory to discuss a Burnside listing or arrange a viewing.
Explore Burnside and our property guides to connect your property search with everyday life in the area.