Buying a house is a big deal, and in New Zealand, many people dream of having a great outdoor area. Whether you want a garden, a place to hang out, or just some fresh air, having outdoor space can really make a home better. If you’re a first-time buyer in New Zealand, this guide will give you some helpful tips for finding a house with the perfect outdoor space for you.
Think About What Outdoor Space Means to You
Before you start looking at houses, take some time to figure out what kind of outdoor space you really want. Do you need a big backyard where your kids can run around and play? Or would you rather have a small balcony where you can sit and enjoy your coffee in the morning? Think about how you plan to use the space and what’s important to you.
For example, if you have kids, you might want a large, flat yard with room for a swing set, a trampoline, and maybe even a small pool. A couple might be happy with a smaller, more private garden where they can relax and entertain friends. It’s all about finding the right fit for your lifestyle. You might also consider things like whether you want a lawn, a garden, a patio, or a combination of these. Do you want a space that’s easy to maintain, or are you willing to put in some work to keep it looking nice?
Knowing what you want will help you narrow down your search and focus on properties that are more likely to meet your needs. It will also help you avoid getting distracted by features that aren’t really important to you. So, before you start browsing listings, take a few minutes to brainstorm and create a list of your must-haves for outdoor space.
Learn About Different Types of Properties
In New Zealand, you’ll find all kinds of properties, each with its own outdoor space options. Let’s take a look at some of the most common types:
Standalone Houses: These usually have the biggest outdoor areas. A house in a suburb like Remuera in Auckland or Fendalton in Christchurch could have a large garden, perfect for kids, pets, or gardening enthusiasts. You’ll have plenty of room to spread out and create your own outdoor oasis.
Townhouses: Townhouses often have smaller outdoor spaces, but they might come with some perks, like shared gardens or parks nearby. This can be a great option if you want a little outdoor space without the responsibility of maintaining a huge yard. Plus, townhouses are often more affordable than standalone houses.
Apartments: Many modern apartments have balconies or shared rooftop terraces. While you won’t get as much outdoor space as with a house, these can still be great places to relax, entertain, or grow a few plants. And apartments are often located in convenient locations, close to shops, restaurants, and other amenities.
Keep in mind that the amount of outdoor space can vary widely even within the same type of property. Some standalone houses have huge sections, while others have smaller, more manageable yards. Similarly, some apartments have large balconies, while others have only a small Juliette balcony. So, it’s important to carefully consider each property on its own merits.
Think About Location, Location, Location
Where you choose to live can have a big impact on the amount of outdoor space you can get. Generally speaking, urban areas like Auckland City or Wellington Central tend to have less outdoor space than rural areas. That’s because land is more expensive in the city, so developers tend to build smaller properties with less outdoor space.
For example, if you’re looking at properties in suburbs like Mount Eden in Auckland or Kelburn in Wellington, you’ll probably find houses with larger sections compared to apartments in the downtown area. If having a lot of outdoor space is a top priority for you, focusing on suburban or rural areas might be a better choice.
However, even within urban areas, there can be significant differences in the amount of outdoor space available. Some suburbs have larger sections than others, and some apartments have bigger balconies or access to shared rooftop terraces. So, it’s important to do your research and compare different locations to see what they have to offer.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the cost of land can vary significantly from one location to another. In general, properties in desirable locations with good schools, parks, and other amenities tend to be more expensive. So, you might have to make some compromises between location, size of outdoor space, and affordability.
Consider the Maintenance Required
Before you get too excited about a big backyard, think about how much time and effort you’re willing to put into maintaining it. Larger gardens require more upkeep, including mowing, weeding, pruning, and fertilizing. If you’re not a big gardener, you might find that a large yard becomes a chore rather than a pleasure.
If you’re a busy professional, consider a property that has a low-maintenance garden. For example, a small patch of native plants or a paved courtyard might be a better fit for your lifestyle than a large lawn that needs mowing every week. You could also consider hiring a gardener to take care of the maintenance for you, but that will add to your expenses.
Think about how much time you’re willing to spend on outdoor maintenance each week or month. Be realistic about your schedule and your gardening skills. If you’re not sure, try talking to some friends or neighbors who have similar gardens to get an idea of the time commitment involved.
You might also want to consider the cost of tools and equipment needed to maintain the garden. A lawnmower, a trimmer, a hedge trimmer, and other tools can add up quickly. If you’re not planning to do a lot of gardening, you might be better off with a smaller, low-maintenance space that doesn’t require a lot of specialized equipment.
Set a Budget and Stick to It
Outdoor space can definitely affect the price of a property. Homes with bigger yards or in desirable locations usually cost more. Before you start looking at houses, set a realistic budget based on your income, savings, and borrowing capacity. Remember to factor in all the costs associated with buying a home, including deposit, legal fees, mortgage repayments, and property taxes.
If you’re planning to enhance the outdoor area, remember to include the potential costs of landscaping, fencing, or gardening services in your budget. These costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to get some quotes and do your research before you commit to buying a property. You might also want to consider the cost of outdoor furniture, barbecues, and other accessories.
Don’t be tempted to overspend on a property just because it has a great outdoor space. It’s important to stay within your budget and avoid taking on too much debt. You can always improve the outdoor space later on, once you’ve saved up some money.
Consider getting pre-approved for a mortgage before you start looking at properties. This will give you a clear idea of how much you can afford to spend, and it will make you a more attractive buyer in the eyes of sellers. It’s also a good idea to talk to a financial advisor to get some expert advice on managing your finances and making smart investment decisions.
Inspect the Outdoor Space Carefully
When you find a property that you like, make sure to inspect the outdoor area thoroughly during your visit. Look for any potential problems, such as drainage issues, overgrown trees, or damaged fences. Bring a notepad and take notes on anything that needs to be repaired or replaced.
Check the condition of the lawn, garden beds, and any paved areas. Look for signs of pests or diseases. Are there any areas where water tends to pool after rain? Are there any trees that are leaning or have dead branches? These could pose a safety hazard and require professional attention.
Pay attention to the orientation of the property and how much sunlight the outdoor space receives throughout the day. If you’re a keen gardener, you’ll want to make sure that there’s enough sunlight for your plants to thrive. You might also want to consider the prevailing winds and whether they could make the outdoor space uncomfortable at certain times of the year.
It’s a good idea to bring a friend or family member with you to the inspection to get a second opinion. They might notice things that you missed. If you’re not confident in your ability to assess the condition of the outdoor space, consider hiring a professional building inspector to do it for you. This could save you a lot of money and hassle in the long run.
Think About Future Developments
Always consider future developments that might affect your outdoor space. New buildings could block your view, create noise, or reduce the amount of sunlight your garden receives. Check with the local council to see if there are any planned developments in the area. You can usually find this information on the council’s website or by contacting their planning department.
Talking to your neighbors can also give you valuable insights into what’s planned for the future. They might know about developments that haven’t been publicly announced yet. They might also be able to tell you about any issues with the property or the neighborhood that you should be aware of.
If you’re concerned about future developments, you might want to consider buying a property that has a covenant or other legal restriction that limits what can be built on neighboring properties. This can give you some peace of mind that your view and your privacy won’t be compromised.
Keep in mind that even if there are no planned developments at the moment, things can change in the future. So, it’s important to stay informed and be prepared for the possibility that your outdoor space could be affected by future construction.
Avoid Common Mistakes
As a new buyer, it’s easy to make mistakes when it comes to outdoor space. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
Focusing Solely on Appearance: Don’t just buy a home based on how beautiful the garden looks in the photos. Consider the functionality of the space and whether it meets your needs.
Underestimating Costs: Be aware that larger outdoor spaces can require more time and money for upkeep. Factor these costs into your budget.
Ignoring Local Council Rules: Check the regulations regarding any changes you might want to make in the outdoor space, like building a deck or fence.
Not considering drainage: Poor drainage can lead to soggy lawns, flooded gardens, and even damage to your house. Make sure the outdoor space is properly drained.
Forgetting about privacy: Think about how private the outdoor space is and whether you’ll be overlooked by neighbors. If privacy is important to you, consider planting trees or shrubs to create a screen.
Not thinking about the climate: New Zealand’s climate can be tough on gardens. Make sure the plants you choose are well-suited to the local conditions.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be more likely to find a property with outdoor space that you’ll love for years to come.
Talk to Real Estate Experts
Consider working with a real estate agent who knows the local market well. They can help you find properties that meet your needs and guide you through the buying process. A good agent will understand what type of outdoor space is in demand in the areas you’re considering and can help you assess the value of different properties.
A real estate agent can also help you negotiate with the seller and navigate the legal aspects of buying a property. They can provide you with valuable advice and support throughout the process, making it less stressful and more likely to succeed.
When choosing a real estate agent, look for someone who is experienced, knowledgeable, and trustworthy. Ask for referrals from friends or family members, and read online reviews to get an idea of their reputation. It’s important to find someone who you feel comfortable working with and who has your best interests at heart.
You might also want to consider talking to a landscape designer or a gardener for advice on how to improve the outdoor space of a property you’re interested in. They can provide you with ideas for landscaping, planting, and creating a beautiful and functional outdoor area.
Plan for Outdoor Activities
Think about the activities you want to enjoy in your outdoor space. If you love gardening, check if the soil is good and whether there’s enough sunlight. If you enjoy entertaining, see if there’s enough space for a barbecue and seating.
If you have kids, you’ll want to make sure there’s enough room for them to play. Consider adding a swing set, a trampoline, or a sandpit. If you have pets, you’ll need to make sure the yard is fenced and safe for them to run around in.
Think about how you’ll use the outdoor space throughout the year. Will you be using it for relaxing in the summer, entertaining in the spring and fall, or enjoying the winter sunshine? Make sure the outdoor space is designed to be used year-round.
Consider adding features like a deck, a patio, a pergola, or an outdoor fireplace to make the outdoor space more comfortable and inviting. These features can also add value to your property.
Check for Local Amenities
Having parks, walking trails, or beaches nearby can significantly enhance your outdoor experience. If you buy a house in Takapuna on Auckland’s North Shore, you’ll not only enjoy a spacious outdoor section but also have easy access to the beautiful beach and local cafes.
Consider the proximity of shops, restaurants, and other amenities. If you like to walk or bike to these places, you’ll want to choose a property that’s located in a walkable neighborhood.
Think about the quality of the local schools, parks, and community facilities. These can have a big impact on your quality of life and the value of your property.
Research the local crime rate and the overall safety of the neighborhood. You’ll want to choose a property that’s located in a safe and secure area.
Buying a house with great outdoor space in New Zealand is totally doable! It’s all about knowing what you want, doing your homework, and getting some expert help. If you take the time to think about these things, you’ll be much more likely to find a home that you’ll love for years to come.
FAQs
What types of outdoor spaces are popular in New Zealand homes?
New Zealanders love a good outdoor space! Popular choices include large backyards perfect for family fun, cozy courtyards for relaxing, balconies with a view, and thriving gardens. It really depends on the type of house and where it’s located.
How important is outdoor space for resale value?
It’s pretty important! Having a nice outdoor space can make your home more attractive to buyers and potentially increase its value. Homes with well-maintained outdoor areas tend to sell faster and for better prices. A study by the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand showed that properties with well-designed outdoor living spaces commanded a premium of up to 10% compared to similar properties without such features.
How can I make a small outdoor space better?
Even small spaces can be amazing! Try vertical gardens, use planters to add greenery, and choose outdoor furniture that fits the area. Add some lighting to create a cozy vibe! According to a survey by Houzz, homeowners are increasingly focusing on maximizing their outdoor living spaces, even if they are small, by incorporating features like comfortable seating, outdoor lighting, and potted plants.
What should I look for when thinking about outdoor space maintenance?
Think about how much time you want to spend on upkeep. Consider landscaping, flower beds, and lawn areas. Do you need special tools or gardening services? Choose something that fits your lifestyle and skill level.
Call to Action
Ready to find your dream home with the perfect outdoor space in New Zealand? Don’t wait! Start your search today, armed with the knowledge from this guide. Define what you want, set a budget, and get expert advice. Your perfect outdoor oasis awaits!
