Property Law & Sub-Divisions
Residential and Rural House Sales and Purchases
Murray Withers & Associates in Christchurch has a long established residential conveyancing practice with a high degree of expertise in property law ranging from individual house sales and purchases, to large and complex subdivisions. The Firm has worked extensively in the development of Rolleston township, having been involved in the development of over 280 sections. The Firm also assists many rural clients with their subdivisions, lifestyle blocks, partnerships, forestry and dairy conversions.
Commercial Property Sales and Purchases
The Firm is experienced in all aspects of commercial property transactions including purchasing, selling, leasing, office blocks and apartments. The Firm has been involved in the development of Cathedral Junction and C1 Gloucester Tower in Christchurch.
10 Important Considerations When Buying A House
- Have your finance pre-approved. If finance is pre-approved, you know actually how much you can spend. Do not purchase beyond your budget.
- Make a list of your requirements.
- Ask the agent questions about the property. Why is it on the market, how long has it been on the market, etc.
- Understand the nature of the property i.e. is the title fee simple, cross lease, unit title, etc.
- Visit the property more than once. On second and third visits you will notice different things about the property. Visit the property at different times of the day.
- Understand the agent's role. The agent is the vendor's agent and not yours, and is trying to sell the property for the best possible price for the vendor.
- Use specialists – arrange a valuation of the property and a building inspection.
- Check the chattels to be included carefully.
- Do not sign an offer under pressure, make sure you understand what you are signing.
- Seek legal advice before putting in an offer.
10 Important Considerations When Selling A Property
- Shop around for real estate agents. Real estate agents will be different in the way the market your property. Find an agent that suits you best.
- Negotiate their commission. When times are hard and listings fewer, you may be able to negotiate a very favourable fee.
- Know how much your home is worth. Investigate other properties on the market in your area and consider having the property valued by an independent valuer.
- Keep the property tidy. Market your property in its best possible condition. Fix the things that people will notice.
- Permits: Ensure you have all permits and consents for your property.
- Accepting Offers: The highest offer may not always be the best. An offer with many conditions can be cancelled on any one of those conditions. A lower unconditional offer may be a better option.
- Back Up Agreements: Never sign a back up offer without seeking legal advice first.
- Buying: If you intend to buy another property, you should not enter into an unconditional purchase until you have sold your own property otherwise you may have to pay penalties or arrange bridging finance.
- Once you have signed an Agreement for Sale & Purchase, you are legally bound by it and cannot change your mind. You need to be clear before you sign, because after signing the purchaser is in control of whether the sale proceeds.
- Seek legal advice before signing an offer.
For further information, contact us at: or Telephone (03) 379 9705.
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