Insights & Articles

Real estate agents or salespersons seeking to challenge a Complaints Assessments Committee's finding of unsatisfactory conduct need now to be aware of a shortened appeal period.

Purchasing an interest in a retirement village is not like purchasing a residential property. There is an ongoing relationship between the village operator and the resident which is governed by the terms and conditions set out in what is called an "Occupation Right Agreement".

Buying a new build "House and Land" package has become a popular option for many first home buyers. It can involve a deposit lower than 20% of purchase price (depending on finance), and means you have the time it takes to build to keep saving towards the purchase of your new home.

When you are selling a property it is common to list the 'Chattels' which you are to be selling with the building. Chattels are items which are able to be removed from a property without too much effort, and which were never intended to permanently form part of the structure. Common examples are an oven, paintings or a fridge. Occasionally they can be large eg a spa pool or garden shed. If it can fit on a truck, it may well be a chattel.

Vast changes to the Residential Tenancies Act, what landlords need to know of their rights and obligations to tenants. With the increasing number of New Zealanders renting, Parliament has seen it fit to make changes to the Residential Tenancies Act 1986 ("the Act") to ensure renters are occupying warm, dry and liveable properties. The reformed Act looks to strike a balance between providing security and stability to tenants, while protecting landlord interest. It is important that landlords have an understanding of the new obligations and responsibilities the amended legislation imposes upon them, along with the penalties they may incur if not followed.