{"id":1592,"date":"2014-04-25T05:41:27","date_gmt":"2014-04-25T05:41:27","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/www.escapeartist.com\/?p=1592"},"modified":"2020-07-09T12:56:37","modified_gmt":"2020-07-09T16:56:37","slug":"buying-property-new-zealand-part-1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.escapeartist.com\/blog\/buying-property-new-zealand-part-1\/","title":{"rendered":"Buying Property in New Zealand, Part 1"},"content":{"rendered":"

Buying Property in New Zealand, Part 1<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Excerpted and adapted from the ebook “Creating Your Ideal Life in New Zealand: Immigrating, Buying Property and Starting a Business on an Island Paradise” by Mindy Born.<\/em><\/p>\n

For residential property investment, as with buying a home anywhere, the first thing of course, is to decide how much you have to spend. Then, make out a list of the most important things your home must have, and a list of things you would like your new home to have, and don\u2019t waste a lot of energy looking outside your means or at property that does not suit your needs. If you are investing in property you plan to rent at a profit, think about things like potential for roommates to share the house, as this may make it easier to find a renter, but also may increase wear and tear on the premises.<\/p>\n

Location is a key issue, whether you\u2019re buying a home for you and your family, or as an investment.<\/p>\n

An Overview of the Home Buying Process<\/strong><\/h2>\n

First, it is important to look at as many properties in the area you want to buy in as possible to get an idea of the local market and what asking prices are. While you are researching your area, talk to people (people besides real estate agents) and get recommendations of solicitors and inspection companies, as you will want a good one to help you through the process.<\/span><\/p>\n

Second, keep in mind that unless the market is skyrocketing, asking prices are by no means fixed, and it is appropriate to put in an offer below asking price.<\/p>\n

It is quite popular in New Zealand to sell houses by auction. If you choose a house that is selling this way, you will need to have all your documents in order before the day of the auction. Make sure you:<\/p>\n