So you've got your Pre-Approval sorted and your onto the next step, Finding A House. At this stage of the process, research is key to making an informed purchase. Here are our picks for the top websites for house hunting.
OneRoof.co.nz is a real estate website version of the print version contained in the NZ Herald. It features listings, latest property news and market insights.
The Estimated Property Value feature and the highly customisable search function are particularly useful for first home buyers looking to zone in on their specific property search.
OneRoof has apps for iPhone and Android.
Realestate.co.nz is a one stop for properties as the official website for the Real Estate Institute of NZ.
Signing up for an account allows you to setup notifications for properties that match your criteria and save properties to your list to help you plan your Open Homes.
Each property listing includes location maps with local amenities like schools and parks, floor plans and videos (if the agent has included one).
Our Auckland Housing Development page is the place to go if you're looking for the latest in new build housing options for first home buyers.
Realising the challenge first home buyers face finding affordable housing in Auckland's property market, we have compiled a list of Auckland Housing Developments including options for first home buyers.
To help keep you up to date with the latest new developments, you can sign up to our monthly newsletter here.
Trademe.co.nz more commonly known for New Zealand's favourite pass time of flogging our unwanted household items is also a top resource for researching properties.
Using the advanced search function you're able to setup email alerts for your specific search criteria to keep you in the loop about the latest listings.
Some useful features of the TradeMe app include:
Trade Me also supports apps for iPhone and Android.
Homes.co.nz is a new kid on the block for house hunters. The website offers free insights into property listings.
Its key feature is HomesEstimate an algorithm which factors in historic sales data and trends to give an idea of the current market value of a property. It has shown even in this unpredictable property market to be a much more reliable estimate than of dated Registered Values and other valuations.
Homes.co.nz also provides a record of house sales dating back years to give you an idea of current market values in your search area.