Buying Your First Home? Why Talking to Your Lawyer First Matters

Buying your first home is exciting but it can also feel overwhelming. Between real estate agents, mortgage brokers, banks, KiwiSaver providers, and well-meaning family and friends, it can be hard to know whose advice to follow.

Right now, first home buyers (FHBs) are more active than ever. In early 2025, they made up nearly one in four property purchases nationwide, with even higher shares in Wellington (36%), Hamilton (30%) and Auckland (27%). The average first home buyer in New Zealand is now in their mid-to-late 30s, typically purchasing a standalone house with a mortgage of around $570,000.

But with this surge of activity comes risk and that’s where legal advice makes all the difference. At Grayson Clements, we see many first home buyers under pressure to make quick decisions, often before they’ve had the chance to talk to a legal advisor. That’s where problems can creep in.

Common challenges for first home buyers

• Tight condition dates – Agreements often have unnecessarily short deadlines for finance, LIM reports, or building inspections. These don’t always align, leading to stressful extension requests (and sometimes extra costs).  Urgent LIM’s also cost more than a standard LIM.
• KiwiSaver timelines – While KiwiSaver withdrawals can now be used for deposits before contracts are unconditional, providers usually take 10–15 working days to process applications. Delays here can hold up confirmation of an unconditional agreement.
• Complex property titles and due diligence – Cross leases, unit titles, or unconsented building work can all create problems for finance or insurance if not picked up early.
• Conflicting advice – Real estate agents want the deal to go through smoothly, but their role is not to protect your legal interests. Similarly, mortgage brokers and advisors may not always flag legal or timing issues.

Three tips to make the process smoother

Rebecca Bell, a registered legal executive at Grayson Clements, works with first home buyers every day. Here are her top tips:

1. Talk to your lawyer before signing anything. It’s tempting to move quickly, but a lawyer can ensure the agreement protects you.
2. Get KiwiSaver confirmation early. Apply as soon as you sign a conditional agreement, so funds are ready when you need them.
3. Don’t skip due diligence. LIM reports, building inspections, and title checks protect you from inheriting someone else’s problems, and can return to haunt you when you sell.

How we can help

Buying your first home is a big step, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the voices in your ear. We’ll guide you through every stage, from checking your agreement to coordinating KiwiSaver funds and completing settlement, so you know exactly what to expect.

Our team combines decades of experience with a friendly, approachable style. We’re here to make the process clear, so you can focus on the excitement of moving into your new home.

Download our ‘Frequently Asked Questions on Buying a Home’ guide.