Buying a house is a big deal, and in New Zealand, getting one with a garage is often a smart move. Whether you need a safe spot for your car, extra storage, or a place to tinker, a garage can really add value to your home and lifestyle. Let’s walk through how to make sure you pick the right house with the perfect garage for you.
Know What You Really Need
First off, you need to figure out exactly what you’re going to use that garage for. Ask yourself these questions:
How many cars do you have now, and might you have in the future? If you’ve got more than one vehicle or plan to get another, a double garage is practically a must. This way, you avoid playing musical cars in the driveway or parking on the street.
Are you a bit of a hoarder, or do you just need some extra space for seasonal stuff? Decide how much of your garage will be for storing things like holiday decorations, gardening tools, or sports gear. Think about shelves, cabinets, or even overhead storage racks to maximize space.
Are you secretly a DIY enthusiast who dreams of building furniture or fixing cars? A garage that’s going to be your workshop needs a few key things. Make sure there are enough power outlets for all your tools, and good lighting so you can actually see what you’re doing. Consider ventilation, especially if you plan on doing any painting or sanding in there. A sturdy workbench is also a must-have.
Location is Still King
Okay, so you know what you want in a garage. Now, let’s talk about where that garage (and house) should be. Location is always a big deal when buying property, and New Zealand is no exception. Certain areas, especially those close to city centers or with great schools, are going to be more expensive.
Do some homework on the area. What are the schools like? How long will it take you to get to work? Are there parks, shops, and other things you care about nearby? Think about your daily life and what would make it easier. For example, if you work in Auckland’s CBD, living in a suburb with good public transport links could save you a lot of stress and money on parking.
Get Up Close and Personal with That Garage
Alright, you’ve found a property that looks promising. Now it’s time to put on your inspector hat and really check out that garage.
Look for cracks, leaks, and anything that looks like it’s about to fall apart. Pay special attention to the roof. Water damage can lead to mold and rot, which are expensive to fix. Check the walls for any signs of shifting or foundation problems.
Bring a tape measure and make sure your car actually fits! Don’t just eyeball it. Consider the width and length of your vehicles, plus some extra room to walk around and open doors without banging into things. Also, think about the height, especially if you have an SUV or plan on adding a roof rack.
Does the garage door open smoothly, or does it sound like it’s about to give up the ghost? An automatic garage door is a huge convenience, but they can be expensive to repair or replace. Check the condition of the tracks, springs, and opener. If it’s an older model, consider upgrading to a newer, more reliable one with safety features like sensors that prevent it from closing if something is in the way.
Think Ahead: What Will You Need Down the Road?
Life changes, and so will your needs. Think about where you might be in five or ten years. Planning on starting a family? You might need that garage space for strollers, bikes, and all sorts of kid-related gear. Thinking about getting a boat or campervan? You’ll need a garage (or carport) that’s big enough to store it. Even if you don’t have specific plans, it’s always a good idea to buy a property with some extra space. You never know when you might need it.
Crunch the Numbers: It’s More Than Just the Price Tag
Don’t just focus on the price of the house. There are other costs to consider, especially when it comes to owning a garage.
Think about painting, fixing a leaky roof, or replacing a worn-out garage door. A little bit of regular maintenance can prevent bigger, more expensive problems down the road.
Make sure your home insurance covers the garage. Some policies have separate limits for outbuildings, so it’s important to check the details. Consider factors like the garage’s contents and potential risks like theft or damage from storms.
Are you planning on running power tools or a heater in your garage? Factor in the extra cost of electricity. Consider energy-efficient lighting and appliances to minimize your bills. You might also want to look into solar panels to offset some of the energy usage.
Know the Rules: Zoning Regulations Matter
Before you get too excited about a property, make sure that the garage is actually allowed and that you can use it the way you want to. Some areas have rules about what you can do with your garage. Can you turn it into a home office? Can you rent it out as a separate living space? Breaking these rules can lead to fines or even legal trouble.
The best way to find out about zoning regulations is to contact your local council. They can provide you with information about permitted uses, building codes, and any other restrictions that might apply to the property you’re considering.
Read the Fine Print: Check That Title Deed
This is where things can get a little tricky, but it’s super important. Make sure that the garage is actually included in the property title. Sometimes, garages are shared with other properties or are on a separate title. This can affect your ownership rights and your ability to make changes in the future.
Ask your lawyer to review the title deed carefully. They can identify any potential issues or restrictions that might not be obvious. This is also a good time to check for any easements or rights of way that might affect the use of your garage.
Don’t Skip This Step: Get a Building Inspection
Seriously, don’t skip this step! A building inspection can uncover hidden problems that you might not notice on your own. This is especially important for older properties, where the garage might have structural issues, pest infestations, or other problems that need to be addressed.
A qualified building inspector will thoroughly examine the garage and provide you with a detailed report outlining any issues they find. This report can give you valuable information about the condition of the garage and help you make an informed decision about whether to proceed with the purchase.
Time to Haggle: Negotiation is Your Friend
Found some issues with the garage? Don’t be afraid to negotiate! If the garage needs repairs, or if it’s smaller than you expected, you might be able to get the seller to lower the price. Do your research and find out what similar homes with garages in the area are selling for. This will give you a good idea of what’s a fair price. You can also use the building inspection report as leverage to negotiate a lower price or to get the seller to make repairs before you buy the property.
Go Green: Think About Energy Efficiency
Even though garages aren’t usually heated, that doesn’t mean you can’t make them more energy-efficient. Look for properties that have insulated garage doors and walls. This will help keep the garage cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter. You might also want to consider installing energy-efficient lighting or even solar panels on the garage roof. This can save you money on your electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint.
Your Life, Your Garage: Make It Fit
Think about how the garage will fit into your daily life. Do you need a lot of space for storing bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear? Do you want a workbench for DIY projects? Do you need extra storage for tools, gardening equipment, or holiday decorations?
Consider the size and layout of the garage, as well as its location on the property. Is it easy to access from the house? Is it close to the driveway? Is it in a convenient spot for loading and unloading items?
Get Help: A Real Estate Agent Can Be Your Best Friend
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to hire a real estate agent. A good agent will have extensive knowledge of the local market and can help you find properties that meet your needs and budget. They can also help you with the negotiation process and guide you through the complexities of buying a house.
A real estate agent can also provide valuable advice on things like zoning regulations, building inspections, and title deeds. They can be a valuable resource throughout the entire home-buying process.
Buying a house with a garage in New Zealand is a big decision, but if you take the time to do your research and plan carefully, you can find a property that’s perfect for you. Don’t rush the process. Take your time to consider your needs, budget, and lifestyle. With a little effort, you can find a house with a garage that will provide you with years of enjoyment and convenience.
FAQ
What are the most important things to look for in a garage when buying a house?
When you’re checking out a garage, think about the size, how well it’s built, and if the door works right. Make sure it’s big enough for your car and anything else you want to store in there. Look for things like cracks or leaks that could cause problems later.
Is a garage always included in the price of a house?
Usually, yes, a garage is included in the house price, but you always want to double-check the paperwork. Make sure the garage is listed as part of the property you’re buying. That way, you won’t have any surprises later on.
Can I turn a garage into a room to live in?
It depends on where you live. Some places let you do that, but others have rules against it. You’ll need to talk to your local city or town to find out what’s allowed. They can tell you if you need any special permits or if there are any restrictions.
How much should I save for taking care of a garage?
A good rule of thumb is to save about 1% of what the property is worth each year. So, if your property is worth $500,000, aim to save about $5,000 each year for maintenance. This can cover things like fixing the roof, painting, or replacing the garage door. Of course, the amount you need might change based on how old the garage is and what condition it’s in.
Do I really need a real estate agent to buy a house with a garage?
You don’t have to have a real estate agent, but it can make things a lot easier. They know the area, can help you find houses that fit what you’re looking for, and can guide you through all the paperwork. Plus, they’re good at negotiating prices, so they might save you some money in the end.
References
New Zealand Property Market Report 2023
Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) Guidelines
New Zealand Building Code Overview
Consumer Build – Home Inspection Advice
New Zealand Council – Zoning and Property Regulations
Ready to find that perfect New Zealand home with the ideal garage? Don’t wait any longer! Start your research today, get pre-approved for a mortgage, and team up with a knowledgeable real estate agent. Your dream home with the perfect garage is waiting for you!
