First Home Buyers Guide: What Does a Lawyer Do When You Buy Your First Home?

Buying your first home is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There’s a lot of paperwork, legal jargon, and deadlines involved. Your lawyer’s job is to make sure everything runs smoothly so you end up owning your new home without unnecessary stress.

  1. Advice before you sign anything
    Before you sign a Sale and Purchase Agreement, talk to us. The agreement is a legally binding contract, so it’s important to get it right from the start.
    We will review the agreement, explain it in plain English, check information provided about the property, ensure the conditions protect you (for example, finance, LIM, and building report), and answer any questions you have.
    This step can save you from costly mistakes later.

  2. Help with making an offer
    We can guide you on how to structure your offer, what conditions to include, and timeframes that work for you and your bank.
    If you’re buying at auction, we’ll help you complete your due diligence beforehand because auction bids are unconditional.

  3. Checking the title, LIM, and building report
    Once your offer is accepted, we dig into the details.
    Title search: we check the legal ownership and look for easements, covenants, or rights of way that could affect the property.
    LIM report: we help you understand the council information (zoning, consents, hazards, and related matters) and what it means for you.
    Building report: we help you understand the inspection findings and whether any issues should be negotiated.
    We’ll also help you decide whether and when to go unconditional.

  4. Working with your bank
    We liaise with your lender to complete mortgage and loan documents, arrange KiwiSaver withdrawals and ensure funds are ready for settlement.
    This coordination is crucial to avoid delays.

  5. Attending to settlement
    On settlement day, we receive funds from your bank, pay the seller, register the transfer with Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and confirm the keys are released to you.
    Once this is done, you officially own your home.

  6. Making it easy
    From start to finish, our goal is simple: get you into your new home with the minimum of fuss. We handle the legal details so you can focus on planning your move.
    Thinking about buying your first home? Get in touch with Tim Holton Law. We’ll guide you through every step and make sure you feel confident and protected.


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This guide is general information only and is not legal advice. You should get advice on your own circumstances before making any property decisions.