We recently received a question from a First Home Buyers Club member. This Kiwi is currently working in the UK but is looking to return to New Zealand within the next few months with the plan to purchase a home using the KiwiSaver HomeStart grant. The question was, how would his income be assessed in...

One of members Kelsey asked the following question “We’re starting to think that cross-lease might be all we can afford – but I’m interested to know what you think about how the title being cross-lease would affect the resale value?” We asked Jessie Foley – Mobile...

What is a LIM Report? A LIM report (land Information memorandum) is prepared by the relevant local council. A Land Information Memorandum (LIM) report is a summary of information that the relevant local Council holds on a property. You can request a LIM report via the Council yourself or your solicitor...

Question When making an offer on a property do I have to pay a deposit and when should I pay it?   Mcveah Fleming  advise the following;   Answer It depends on the situation. For example if it is a private sale between parties (i.e. no agent involved) the parties may agree that no deposit...

Question As a first home buyer I am looking to use my Kiwisaver towards my deposit for my first home. How much of my fund can I withdraw?   Answer You may be able to withdraw ALL your contributions, ALL your employer contributions, plus any earnings. The only amounts you can’t withdraw are...

Our first home buyer member Shannon asked us the following question;   Can your kiwisaver savings go towards the deposit of your first home, or can it only go towards the mortgage itself once the deposit has been paid? Our answer; The term ‘deposit’ can be a little confusing as it is...

First Home Buyer Club member Nathan asked; What is the general consensus on monolithic cladding houses with a cavity system installed? I’m a first home buying looking at the Auckland market right now but a lot of properties in my price range are this townhouse property type. I’m nervous that...

One of our First Home Buyer Club Members ‘Amy’ asked; “Would experts recommend home buyers buy a modern home or a older kiwi home and what is the better choice for resale value?” Michael Guy of Bayleys Real Estate Orewa responded as follows; “It depends on a number of factors. ...