Sale and Purchase Agreements: What You Need to Know Before You Sign
Buying or selling property in New Zealand? The Sale and Purchase Agreement sets out the terms of your deal and is legally binding once unconditional. This plain-English guide explains key clauses, common conditions, and why getting legal advice early can save you stress and money.
Anti-Money Laundering Requirements
Before we start legal work for our clients, we are required to carry out Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (“AML and CFT”) checks. We understand this can seem like an unnecessary and invasive step in engaging a lawyer. So why do we do this? Law firms are now required to complete these checks because they are significant targets for criminals to try to launder money through for the funding of terrorism and other illegal activities. How do we do this?
Purchasing a House? We have your pre-settlement checklist
Before settlement, do a thorough inspection and checklist: test lights, doors and locks, taps and hot water, vents, drainage and fencing. Check all chattels listed in the agreement are present and working. Confirm any agreed repairs are completed, and clear belongings or rubbish before settlement to avoid issues later.
Fences - Who's Responsible?
We are in the middle of a construction boom, there are many new subdivisions being opened up and, well, as a rural land owner you often have quite extensive boundaries. Fencing them can be expensive. What are the actual legal requirements for a fence? Who contributes? Generally, if you want to build a fence on a common boundary with your neighbour, or upgrade an existing one, you can expect the neighbour to go halves on the bill for an "adequate" fence. That is, one that is
First Home Buyers
Buying your first home? No idea where to start? Sometimes we wish there was a hand to hold, or a map to read to get to our final destination- in this instance- the relief and satisfaction of having moved all your belongings into your very own home. We are here to help make that journey as smooth as possible (without physically holding your hand, sorry). Your first step is a financial process, working out what is going to be affordable for you. Talking to a mortgage broker
What does “vacant possession” really mean?
Vacant possession means the property is handed over free from tenants, occupants and personal items not included in the sale. Vendors must give tenants proper notice and remove goods and rubbish before settlement. If vacant possession isn’t provided, settlement can be delayed and buyers may take action under the agreement.