Buying Your First Home in NZ? LIM Reports, KiwiSaver & Property Lawyer Tips Explained

Buying your first home in New Zealand? In Episode 28 of Mortgage Matters by Advanced Mortgage Solutions, Property law specialist Brent Selwyn from KT Law explains the legal checks every first-home buyer should understand, including LIM reports, building inspections, KiwiSaver withdrawal timing, title searches, easements, land covenants, and property due diligence. Learn how a property lawyer can help protect you when buying at auction, through a deadline sale, or via private treaty. Brent explains LIM reports, what they cover (consents, permits, code compliance, flood risk) and their limits, and recommends building inspections to identify issues buyers may miss, including earthquake repair work. He outlines key KiwiSaver withdrawal timing and documentation, noting withdrawals can only start after an offer is accepted and processing may take 10–15 days. The discussion also covers Canterbury earthquake considerations (assigning residual rights/claims and verifying repairs) and the importance of title checks, including easements and land covenants. To contact Brent regarding assistance please go to https://www.ktlaw.co.nz/ 00:00 Welcome and Topic 00:17 Lawyer Before You Sign 01:41 Understanding LIM Reports 04:14 Building Inspection Musts 05:32 KiwiSaver Timing Tips 07:35 Earthquake Claims Checks 09:13 Title Searches Explained 11:31 Wrap Up and Contact