Buying guide

How to make an offer on a house in NZ

So you’ve found a home and want it to be yours. Here’s what to do next.

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Making an offer on a house requires careful preparation. Always consult your lawyer to review the Sale and Purchase Agreement and confirm your finances with a lender or mortgage adviser.

Decide whether to make a conditional or unconditional offer. Conditional offers depend on meeting terms like a satisfactory building report or finance approval. An unconditional offer is a firm commitment to buy. To stand out, be flexible on the settlement date and show you can resolve conditions quickly.

How to make an offer on a house in NZ: the steps

1. Talk to your lawyer

2. Confirm your finances

You'll need to confirm your finances before making an offer.

3. Decide what conditions, if any, you want to include in your offer

Think about what conditions you might want to add to your offer, and how the buyer might see them.

4. Understand the sale and purchase agreement

The Sale and Purchase Agreement is an important document you need to understand.

How to make a house offer more attractive

1. Be flexible on settlement date

2. Be prepped with your finances

3. Show commitment to working through your conditions

4. Keep your timeframes as short as possible

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