Property Law – The origin of the term “real property” means property relating to things. Historically, land was the most important asset you could own, thus the term “real” linked with “property” meant land.
This stood in contrast to personal and other forms of property. The distinction between land and other forms of property is carried through into today with, New Zealand’ widespread love affair with land. New Zealander’s today are far more interested in land as an investment compared to other less tangible types of property, such as shares and securities.
Land never goes away but the legal rules surrounding it are constantly evolving. Recent measures such as zoning requirements, resource management regulations, overseas investment consents, taxation and finance, together with matters of due diligence such as leaky homes, compulsory acquisition of land, ground rents and Treaty of Waitangi claims, means there is now a large number of items to be considered when it comes to matters of Real Estate Law in New Zealand.
What causes the most complications for people is the complexity of the contracts drawn up. Contractual issues can arise over the acquisition and transference of land, construction permissions, and restraints, leasing, and financing. There is also the ever-present possibility of a dispute over the land involved, which can lead to litigation if mishandled.
Our company-wide commercial, financial and dispute resolution skills will help you achieve your property goals and alleviate your concerns. Whether you want to buy or sell a house, protect your property from creditors, a spouse or partner, invest in land, develop land or use it commercially as a lessor or lessee, owner or farmer or whether you simply just like to enjoy your land as a lifestyle property or holiday home, our property legal team can help.
We are members of the Property Law Section of the New Zealand Law Society.
From contract initiation to completion, the skills and commitment of our team can assist in the following areas:
