Buying your first home should be one of the most exciting moments of your life, not a source of stress. We’re seeing a fantastic level of activity from first-home buyers in the Rangiora real estate market, and with interest rates stabilising, it’s a perfect time to get into the market. Based on our experience helping buyers find homes for sale in Rangiora and throughout North Canterbury, here are our tips to make the process as smooth and simple as possible.
The single most important step you can take is to get your financial situation organised and a pre-approved home loan in place before you start looking at properties.
Working with a financial or mortgage adviser is crucial. They are experts at navigating the market, and they can help you with:
Having your finances sorted means you’re ready to act immediately when you find a home you love.
Next, you need to find a solicitor to represent you. It’s a key part of your team. North Canterbury has many great options. Have a conversation with them early in the process to discuss your situation, the offer process, and the specific clauses you should consider including in any offer you make.
Now for the fun part! The more homes for sale in Rangiora you see, the more you’ll become an expert in the local market. This will give you the confidence to make a strong offer when you find “the one.”
When you’re viewing a property, here are some key questions to ask the sales consultant:
In Canterbury, it’s wise to consider including the following conditions in your offer to ensure you are protected:
Once your offer is accepted, your solicitor will take the lead. They’ll order the legal documents and review them with you. At the same time, you’ll need to arrange for a building inspection and get an insurance quote. Your Ray White sales consultant will be there to assist you throughout this period. We’ve seen it all before and can often help troubleshoot any issues that arise.
We are always happy to help. Feel free to stop by our new Ray White office in Conway Lane, Rangiora, and we can have a chat about your first-home journey.
Q: Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy a house in the Rangiora property market? A: Yes, you can! If you’ve been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years, you may be able to withdraw most of your savings to put towards your deposit. Your mortgage advisor and solicitor can help you with this application.
Q: Do I need a building inspection if the house looks fine? A: We highly recommend getting a building inspection, even on a new home. A professional can identify potential issues that aren’t visible to the untrained eye, giving you peace of mind and protecting your investment.
Q: What is a LIM report and why do I need one? A: A Land Information Memorandum (LIM) is a report issued by the council that has all the information they hold on a property. It includes things like building consents, drainage plans, and any known issues like contamination. Your solicitor will review this report to ensure there are no surprises with the property.
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