Spring often brings a lift in the property market. More listings, more open homes, and more people ready to take the next step. It’s an exciting time, but it can also feel rushed. Before you sign an agreement, it’s worth slowing down and making sure you have the right information. A property agreement is legally binding, and a few early checks can help you avoid stressful surprises later.
Here are the key things to look at before committing to a purchase.
Before signing, make sure your finance is genuinely in place, or that your agreement includes a finance condition that protects you. Banks often need time to review the property, confirm insurance, and complete valuations. In the current lending environment, they may also ask for extra documentation.
If you plan to use KiwiSaver, getting advice early helps ensure your eligibility checks and withdrawal paperwork are completed properly and on time.
A title search can reveal details that affect how you use or enjoy the property. It’s worth checking for easements, covenants, cross lease issues, encumbrances, access rights, fencing obligations, and shared driveways. These can influence renovations, access, and future plans. A quick legal review helps you understand any restrictions before you commit.
A Land Information Memorandum (LIM) provides council information about the property. It can show building consents, drainage details, natural hazards, zoning, and any outstanding notices. Reviewing the LIM helps you understand the property’s history and any risks that might affect insurance, lending, or future use.
An independent building inspection can pick up issues that aren’t obvious at an open home. Common findings include moisture concerns, roofing problems, structural movement, plumbing or electrical issues, and unconsented work. A good report gives you a clearer picture of the property’s condition and helps you decide whether to proceed, negotiate, or walk away.
Depending on the home, extra investigations may be worthwhile. These might include body corporate records, insurance availability, checking for unconsented work, reviewing nearby developments, confirming boundaries and access, meth testing, or rural checks such as water supply or stock rights. Every property is different, and tailored due diligence helps you make an informed decision.
Conditions need to fit your situation. A conditional offer gives you time to complete checks before becoming leglly bound. An unconditional offer commits you immediately and carries more risk if issues appear later.
The Agreement for Sale and Purchase was updated in 2026, including changes to vendor warranties and finance conditions. Early legal advice helps ensure your conditions reflect these updates.
Even if the agreement looks straightforward, sending it to your lawyer before signing can help identify issues and make sure it reflects what you intend to buy.
Preparing for settlement is just as important. Insurance must be confirmed, bank instructions completed, and all conditions satisfied. Early advice helps everything run smoothly.
Buying a home is a major milestone. It’s also a good time to check whether your wider legal affairs, such as your will or enduring powers of attorney, still fit your life.
If you’re thinking about buying, our property team can guide you through the agreement, help you complete due diligence, and make sure your conditions give you the protection you need. Get in touch with us before you sign.
