Building an Eco house
What is eco? When designing an eco house there is no silver bullet. Small, incremental changes to design, build and materials are how we create more efficient, warmer, healthier homes that are also...
View ArticleApartments – A new Bank attitude?
For many years apartments were the least liked of any residential security the Banks wanted to take on. Even though the rest of the world has long embraced apartments as a normal & more accessible...
View ArticleBuying leasehold is a risky business
I regularly warn clients to beware of leasehold land, even if it seems affordable at the time there is the danger that this could change drastically come the next rent review. The risks of purchasing...
View ArticleCan you buy at Auction without a 10% deposit?
Most people know that if you are the successful bidder at an auction you will be required to pay a 10% deposit on the day of the auction to the agents. What many people don’t know however is that if...
View Article4 Checks to do before buying a property at Auction
When purchasing a property at an auction in New Zealand, you need to understand that your purchase is unconditional and that on the fall of the hammer you accept the property as is. It is therefore...
View ArticleMixed use of holiday homes
Do you rent out your holiday home or bach? If so the new rules on mixed-use assets could affect you… From the beginning of the 2013/2014 income year, if you are using a property for mixed use, i.e. you...
View ArticleInvestment Property Basics
Buying property will probably be the biggest financial investment you’ll ever make and because of this you need to surround yourself with people who can help you realise your goals. Make sure you...
View ArticleCan I cancel a Sale and Purchase Agreement after signing?
An Agreement for Sale and Purchase of Real Estate is a legally binding document. In some countries there is a “cooling off” period giving you a few days to change your mind after you have signed an...
View ArticleConditions when purchasing in high earthquake risk areas
In earthquake prone areas of New Zealand like Christchurch and now Wellington there are many additional considerations to take into account when buying a property. It is essential to get legal advice...
View ArticleBuying leasehold property in NZ- pro’s and cons
What is leasehold land? Leasehold is a form of property ownership whereby you own the buildings and any other improvements on the site, but you lease or rent the land from a land owner. The Pro’s...
View Article