REAL ESTATE BUYER CHECKLIST

Step-by-step real estate buyer’s guide expert

Purchasing a real estate involves careful consideration and a range of real estate professionals to guide you through the process.

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Real estate buyer checklist

Our standardised, step-by-step checklist is designed to assist you, but it may not cover every individual scenario. It’s a helpful guide, but not exhaustive. For personalised guidance tailored to your unique situation, we highly recommend consulting trusted real estate professional(s).

What to do when you start looking to buy

Define your property requirements and preferences, (and identify what is negotiable and what is not when it comes to the features and benefits you want in your new home).

Define your budget with either your bank or an experienced mortgage broker, and if possible get pre-approved for finance.

Research neighbourhoods and locations that match your criteria.

Get to know the areas you're considering. Check for planned developments, local amenities, and significant changes by council or developers that may impact your future.

Track actual sales in your target areas. They often differ from advertised prices. Use various platforms and websites for this information.

Engage with the real estate websites and platforms and start visiting open homes.

Some people choose to work directly with a Real Estate Agent or Buyer's Agent who understands their needs. Others choose to deal directly with the listing agent on each property.

Get your mortgage pre-approved.

Understand how you can use KiwiSaver / your super as a first home buyer, if applicable.

Have an experienced agent explain the different buy/sell methods (auction, private sale, deadline sale, priced, no price). Understanding these will greatly help you as a buyer.

When you find your dream property

Once you have found the home you would like to buy, let the agent know you are interested and then engage in whatever selling/buying process is in place.

Always ask the listing agent directly if there are any issues to be disclosed including any effect the flooding and weather events may have had on the property.

Conduct property inspections with a certified property inspector.

Review with a property lawyer legal documents and perform title searches.

Fine-tune your offer strategy and terms.

Understand the purchase method, e.g. auction, private sale.

Work with a mortgage broker to secure financing for that property.

Make your offer.

When you secured your dream property

Work with your mortgage broker to structure your mortgage.

Find an insurance broker or secure insurance for your home.

Coordinate a property inspection and final walkthrough.

Finalise paperwork and documents.

Buying day:

Do a final check of the property.

Complete the transaction with your lawyer and receive keys.

For information, check our related blog articles for Australia and New Zealand.

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Nothing on this page constitutes legal advice. For specific legal advice related to real estate matters, please consult with a Real Estate Legal Expert.