AWS Legal is proud to offer specialised residential property services across New Zealand. Our seasoned team of lawyers is equipped to support you through all aspects of buying, selling, and refinancing properties. Whether you’re taking your first steps on the property ladder or are a veteran investor, we’re here to make the process seamless.

Simplified Home Buying and Selling

Acquiring or parting with a house in New Zealand demands sound legal expertise to ensure a smooth and efficient journey. Our conveyancing services cover every detail, from contract drafting and review to comprehensive due diligence. With our firm by your side, you can count on us to safeguard your interests, secure favourable contract terms, and adhere to all legal prerequisites. Trust our team to manage your property transactions with precision and care.

Streamlining Mortgage Refinancing

Considering refinancing your mortgage? AWS Legal can offer valuable insights and guidance. We’re adept at the legal nuances of mortgage refinancing, ready to guide you through every step. Our team will scrutinise your existing mortgage terms, aid in your negotiations with lenders, and certify that all documents are accurately prepared and implemented. Rely on us to support you in making informed choices and attaining favourable refinancing outcomes.

Easements and Covenants – Safeguarding Your Property Rights

Our seasoned lawyers, well-versed in New Zealand property laws, are ready to assist you in deciphering easements and covenants. Whether you seek advice on existing agreements or help negotiating new ones, we have the skillset to guide you effectively through the process.

Expertise in Subdivisions and Unit Titles

Thinking about subdividing your property or working with unit titles? AWS Legal has a wealth of experience in these matters. We appreciate the intricacies of the subdivision process and can walk you through each step, from acquiring necessary consents to registering titles. Our team keeps abreast of the latest regulations, ensuring compliance to facilitate smooth and successful subdivisions or unit title transactions.

Home Buying Checklist:
Before you begin looking for a home to buy:
  • Apply for pre-approval for your KiwiSaver First Home Withdrawal and apply for pre-approval for the Kāinga Ora First Home Grant if you are a first home buyer
  • Obtain pre-approval for finance by contacting your bank
Once you have found a suitable home, talk to a lawyer! We will talk to you about: 
  • Do you need to make your purchase subject to approval of any conditions? In particular: Finance, Builders Report, LIM Report, Solicitors Approval, Insurance, Valuation, Methamphetamine Testing
  • Are you able to pay a deposit once the conditions have been approved and confirmed? Are you using your KiwiSaver or First Home Grant to contribute to the deposit?
  • How much time do you need to allow when selecting a settlement date (the date you pay for and move into your home)?
  • Have you listed all of the chattels that will be included in the purchase? The usual chattels which may be included are: Oven, Dishwasher, Kitchen Waste Disposal, Light Fittings, Smoke Detectors, Heat Pumps etc.
  • Are you buying the property by yourself or with someone else? If buying with someone else, are you making equal or unequal contributions?
Once you have signed the purchase agreement
  • The real estate agent will forward a copy to us as your lawyer
  • We will then work with you to obtain and review the information/reports that you need to confirm any conditions
Once the conditions are approved and confirmed, you have an unconditional purchase agreement. We will then work with you to:
  •  Finalise your KiwiSaver withdrawal
  •  Finalise your lending arrangements with your bank
  •  Confirm suitable insurance for the property
  •  Make a suitable appointment with you to sign the necessary bank and legal documents
  •  Prepare a Will for you and discuss Enduring Powers of Attorney

On the day you move into your new home, we will complete your purchase and contact you following settlement to arrange for you to collect keys! We understand that the process of buying and selling your home can be daunting. We understand that you may have questions. We are here to help and happy to talk to you about any aspect of buying and selling your home. Contact one of our experienced residential real estate specialists today.

We can 
help with

Photo of a young couple holding up a house shaped key ring with a key on it
First Home Buyers

Our Residential Property Specialists

Testimonials

Cam Murphy and his team are brilliant to deal with. They are professional and provide sound advice. I would highly recommend using them to purchase a property in Canterbury.”

- Cam Finlayson

“As a first home buyer I had no idea what to expect. AWS Legal Senior Associate Allanah Cunningham made the process easy to understand. There was consistent communication every step of the way. Allanah went above and beyond to ensure the house was secured in my name, right up until the final minute.  I could not recommend AWS enough. Supportive, compassionate and genuine throughout the whole process!”

- Emma

Allanah Cunningham and her legal exec were the most professional team to deal with during what can be a very stressful time.  Allanah and team were so excellent at translating complex legal language to simple, understandable facts.  At every single stage, I was more than kept up-to-date as well as the team making sure that my EPOAs and Will was up to date as appropriate for someone buying their first house.  Whether it is your first property and you need someone who will guide you through the house buying process with kind, thorough support; or as an investor with complex property Trusts – Allanah and team will handle it with ease.”

- Nicole

Articles and Updates

Photo of a young couple holding up a house shaped key ring with a key on it
From Dreaming to Buying: Your Fast-Track Guide with our Quick Checklist
Photo of Queenstown New Zealand
Inclusionary Zoning “Tax” / The QLDC Affordable Housing Strategy (2022)
Photo of a young couple holding up a house shaped key ring with a key on it
Changes made to First Home Grant 2022
Photo of houses
Recent changes to Property Law Act and how they might affect you.
People with a contract
Purchasing a Property with Family or Friends
Aerial view of a culdesac
Land Covenants and what you need to know about them
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Buying to build – Tips to get it right
Person signing a document
Commercial Leasing – What you need to know
Houses with a shared driveway
What effect do easements have when buying land?
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Sold! But will my property profit be taxed?

Find Us

admin@awslegal.co.nz
80 Don Street, Invercargill
PO Box 1207, Invercargill 9840
Queenstown.Reception@awslegal.co.nz
Level 2, The Forge, Athol Street, Queenstown
PO Box 1322, Queenstown, 9348
Alexandra.Reception@awslegal.co.nz
Level 1, 77 Centennial Avenue, Alexandra, 9340
PO Box 268 Alexandra 9320
admin@awslegal.co.nz
270 Great North Road, Winton 9720
PO Box 14 Winton 9741
admin@awslegal.co.nz
11 Bowler Avenue, Gore 9710
admin@awslegal.co.nz
112 Town Centre, Te Anau 9600

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