11 Questions That Home Buyers Should Ask When Buying A House & Land Package

If you are in the market for a new home and considering a house and land package, there are several important questions you should ask to ensure you make an informed decision. We have compiled a list of essential questions to ask when purchasing a house and land package. By asking these questions, you can feel confident in your investment and enjoy the process of building your dream home. 

How do home and land packages work? 

A house and land package is essentially a section of land and a newly built home available to be purchased together. These packages allow buyers to choose from a range of pre-designed house plans that suit their budget and preferences and then select a suitable piece of land on which the home will be built. By combining the land and construction costs into a single package, home and land packages provide a streamlined and convenient solution for those looking to buy or build a new home. Simplifying the process by giving you one point of contact and one price for both the land purchase and the new build. 

What are the benefits of buying a home and land package? 

House and land packages simplify the home-building process by offering a plot of land with the opportunity to design and build your dream home. The benefits of buying a house and land packages include expert help, location, and choice, with building companies offering support throughout the process and areas like Paerata Rise providing a range of options and new amenities. They also offer lower deposits, personalisation options, insulation according to new rules, and potential savings on maintenance costs. Owning a brand new home that meets current NZ building standards can provide peace of mind when moving or purchasing. 

Find out about the top tips for customising your house & land packages.

Are there any risks in buying a home and land package? 

When it comes to buying a home and land package there are some risks to be aware of. These can include rising interest rates, potential delays in construction due to factors such as adverse weather conditions, material shortages and delivery delays. Generally, builders at Paerata Rise offer fixed price contracts to provide future residents with greater cost certainty. It is always important to carefully consider your financing options and ensure that you have locked in a favourable interest rate to facilitate effective budget planning. 

How long will the build take? 

For a house and land package in New Zealand, the average time for construction typically ranges between 8 to 10 months. This timeline is subject to factors such as the weather conditions, availability of building supplies, and the project’s complexity – delays can occur due to unforeseen circumstances.  

Is landscaping included in the home and land package/what is excluded? 

In a house and land package, the builders are typically responsible for selling a fully completed product, which includes all aspects of the landscaping, fencing, retaining walls, and letterbox. However, it is important to note that there may be some exclusions, such as IGC costs. It is important to thoroughly review the contract and understand any exclusions or limitations related to the landscaping or other aspects of the project.

What warranties/guarantees come with the house? 

The Master Build 10-year Guarantee is a comprehensive warranty covering any defects in materials and workmanship for a period of 10 years from the date of completion. This guarantee provides peace of mind for homeowners, with an assurance that any issues arising from the construction of their home will be addressed and remedied within a reasonable timeframe.  

Are there any rules/regulations in the development? 

Paerata Rise has a resident society with design guidelines and regulations to ensure that all homes are built to a high standard and are consistent with the overall vision of the community. These guidelines cover a wide range of areas, including building materials, colour schemes, landscaping, and more. Homeowners can obtain a copy of these guidelines from the build partners or from the developers to ensure that the home you’ve envisioned meets all the necessary requirements. 

What are the resident society fees? 

A resident society fee is a recurring fee charged to homeowners who are part of our homely development. This fee typically covers the maintenance and upkeep of common areas such as parks, playgrounds, and roads. These fees include a $300 one-off joining fee and $180 per year or part thereof, as a Paerata Rise resident society member.  

How much is the monthly council tax? 

For information regarding the monthly council tax for a property, it is best to contact the local council directly. When building your dream home, it is important to note that the rates will only reflect the value of the land, as the completed home has not yet been assessed. To get an idea of what rates may be, you can search for completed addresses in Paerata Rise on the Auckland Council website here, which provides an average estimate of property rates based on location. It’s always a good idea to confirm estimates with the council to gain a more accurate idea of what your monthly council tax may be. 

Is there a turnkey available? 

At Paerata Rise, some of the builders offer turnkey homes as part of their home and land packages. This refers to a property that is fully completed and ready to move in. Turnkey homes typically include all the necessary finishes, fixtures, and appliances, making them a convenient option for buyers wanting a quick and hassle-free house and land package.  

What are the future plans for Paerata? 

A small retail precinct is currently planned for Paerata Rise, subject to resource consent. The development team aims to complete the shopping precinct by 2026. In addition, we have established a range of amenities designed to create a vibrant and connected community. These amenities include parks and green spaces, walking and cycling trails, a playground, and a community centre. The development also boasts an excellent primary school, an early learning centre, and access to public transportation. As the community continues to grow, there are plans to expand on these amenities and create a dynamic, sustainable, and thriving neighbourhood for all residents. Find our more on our Master Plan page.

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