Your Guide to Buying Property in Nelson, Tasman & Marlborough


Buying real estate can be incredibly exciting and rewarding. Whether you're a first home buyer or an experienced investor, our team at Summit is here to guide you through the property buying process in the Top of the South.

From residential properties and lifestyle blocks to commercial real estate and sections, Summit understands every property buyer has unique needs in the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough property market. Whether you're ready to upsize, downsize, or make your first property investment, navigating the local market requires expert guidance.


Here are some helpful tips from our experienced real estate agents to help you get started on your property journey.

1. Establish Your Budget 

Work out your finances first - this is the foundation of your property purchase. Calculate your income versus outgoings, available deposit, and existing equity if you currently own property. Use budget calculators at sorted.co.nz for accurate planning. 

If selling first: Get a free property appraisal to understand your current home's value before making purchase decisions. 

Book an Appraisal


2. Get Pre-Approved for Finance 

Find out your borrowing capacity before you start looking. Talk to a mortgage broker or your bank to get pre-approved - this gives you a stronger negotiating position and speeds up documentation. 

Need finance help?

Contact Mortgage Money for assistance securing the best deal at no cost to you. 


3. Secure Independent Legal Advice 

Choose your lawyer early in the process. Your legal advisor will ensure proper process is followed and check crucial documentation including: 

  • LIM (Land Information Memorandum) reports 
  • Title checks 
  • All property-related legal documentation 

4. Begin Your Property Search 

Your exciting search starts here! Use multiple channels for the best results: 

  • Summit's website - our properties are featured here first, before any other website 
  • Property magazines and publications 
  • Direct contact with Summit agents 

Browse Summit's listings


5. Do Your Market Research 

Knowledge is power when making property decisions: 

Price Research 

  • Compare similar properties in your target area 
  • Review recent sales data 
  • Watch for our upcoming market reports 

Council Information 

Access rating and valuation information from local councils: 

  • Nelson City Council - property valuations and rates 
  • Tasman District Council - rates and property information 
  • Marlborough District Council - district property data 

Regional Resources 


6. Property Inspection & Due Diligence 

Essential Document Checks 

Review with your solicitor: 

  • Property Title 
  • LIM Report 
  • Building plans and renovation documentation 

Professional Reports to Consider 

  • Geotech reports 
  • Engineer reports 
  • Builder inspections 
  • Quotable Value NZ valuations 

Physical Inspection Checklist 

Exterior Inspection: 

  • Piles, roof, walls, gutters 
  • Decks and gardens 
  • Drainage and spouting 

Interior Systems: 

  • Door and window operation 
  • Building materials and construction 
  • Insulation, heating, ventilation 
  • Double glazing status 
  • Wall and ceiling condition 
  • Electrical systems and gas outlets 
  • Plumbing and water pressure 

Practical Considerations: 

  • Home style and renovation needs 
  • Size and layout suitability 
  • Storage options and garage 
  • Child-friendly features and fencing 
  • Pet-friendly grounds and space 

7. Making Your Offer 

Ready to purchase? Once you've completed: 

  • Sufficient property checks 
  • Solicitor documentation review 
  • Decided on offer conditions 

Your Summit agent will help you prepare the correct offer documentation. 


8. Offer Acceptance & Conditions 

If all parties agree - congratulations, your offer is accepted! 

Conditional Offers 

  • Buyer responsibility to meet all conditions by due dates 
  • Once conditions are met, the offer becomes unconditional 
  • No changes allowed once agreement becomes unconditional 

9. Pre-Settlement Preparation 

Your Summit consultant guides you through: 

Essential Pre-Settlement Tasks 

  • Pre-settlement inspection booking 
  • Bank meeting arrangements 
  • Solicitor consultation scheduling 
  • Moving logistics organisation 
  • Utility connections (power, phone, internet) 
  • Insurance arrangement for settlement day 

10. Settlement Day - Your new Property awaits! 

The final step - pay the remaining purchase price and receive your keys! 

Important: Summit can only release keys once legal settlement is complete and we're notified by the seller's solicitor. 

Congratulations on your property purchase! 

The Best Source for Local Property

Summit's professional property publications are distributed throughout Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough, featuring the latest listings with open home times conveniently listed on the back. Access digital versions anytime for unfiltered property search and comprehensive market information.

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