Don't buy your first home %%without this%%.
A stage-by-stage checklist covering every conversation, document and sign-off between your first offer and the keys in your hand. Built from over 350 real first home buyer settlements.
Three stages. Nothing missed.
The checklist walks you through every action from the initial chat with your lawyer to the keys at settlement. Here's a preview of what each stage covers.
Before you sign the Sale and Purchase Agreement
Book an initial call with your lawyer
Discuss finance, deposit and pre-approval
Confirm how you'll hold the title (joint tenants, tenants in common)
Understand the sale method (auction, tender, negotiation)
Check the chattels list on Schedule 2
IRD number, Land Transfer Tax Statement, bright-line
+ 8 more items in this stage
After you sign — due diligence and going unconditional
LIM report reviewed
Building report ordered and reviewed
Title and registered interests checked
Finance confirmed and mortgage documents signed
Insurance arranged and noted on the mortgage
Deposit paid to the real estate agent
+ 10 more items in this stage
Settlement and moving in
Pre-settlement inspection completed
Settlement statement reviewed
Balance settlement funds confirmed with bank
Title registered in your name at LINZ
Keys collected from the real estate agent
Reporting letter received and filed
+ 6 more items in this stage
Angus Grayson, LLB
I built this checklist off the back of hundreds of first home buyer settlements. Every item on it is something a buyer has either asked me about or — worse — wished they'd asked about. Use it from the moment you start looking, and tick items off as you go.
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Before you download.
Is this for first home buyers only?
It's built around the first home buyer journey, but most of it applies to any residential purchase in New Zealand. Second-home buyers and investors skip the KiwiSaver and First Home Grant items but work through the rest.
Do I need to use HouseMe Legal to get value from this?
No. The checklist is a tool, not a sales pitch. Most items apply regardless of which lawyer you use.
When should I start using it?
Before you go to your first open home. Stage 1 covers the conversations you should be having before you ever sign a contract — and those are the ones that save the most stress later.
Can I share this with my mortgage broker?
Can I share this with my mortgage broker?