Brent Westland – Buying & Selling Real Estate

Read these tips for buying and selling Real Estate in New Zealand. 

The most important decision every buyer should consider when purchasing any property, whether it is a 100 year old villa or a brand new home, should be to instruct an independent certified building inspection specialist, to carry out a full building inspection as well as a non-invasive moisture test.

 

Research the recent sales in the area where you want to buy, so that you can get an approximate idea of property values. Ask your local agent to provide you with this information. lt will be especially helpful to you, if you are intending to bid at auction.

 

Prior to bidding at any property auction, instruct your solicitor to inspect the terms and conditions of auction, the certificate of title and the Lim Report (Land Information Memorandum) if one is available, otherwise inspect the local council file on the property, which should show all building consents and code of compliance certificates that have been issued. Most property files will also show a full set of house plans. This is also recommended for purchasing by private treaty.

 

 

Tips  for Sellers

 

Prepare your property for sale. As we all know the presentation of your home is just so important, so as to attract the best buyers possible to your property and to achieve the best possible price.

 

Touch up all interior and exterior paint work, clean the carpets and de-clutter the interior of the house, to give a feeling of spaciousness throughout.

 

Trim back any trees or plantings around windows or exterior doors that may affect the direct sunlight into the interior of your house. Also ask your neighbours, if their trees are shading your property or obstructing your views, if you could arrange for them to be trimmed at your expense.

 

Repair or replace any broken or damaged fittings and fixtures, a few hundred dollars spent now, may earn you thousands later. Most buyers are looking for a relatively maintenance free home, as many do not possess the skills to carry out routine home maintenance.

 

Brent Westland is a Licensed Real Estate Agent with Prestige Real Estate International.