Frequently Asked Questions
Buying a new home should feel simple and transparent. Here are answers to some of the most common questions we receive.
How much deposit do I need, and where is it held?
A 10% deposit is payable once your agreement goes unconditional. For added security, your deposit is paid into your solicitor’s trust account and held there until completion/settlement, when it is applied toward the purchase price.
Do I need finance pre-approval before I reserve a home?
We strongly recommend having finance pre-approval before you sign, because it confirms your budget and makes the process faster and more straightforward. If you have not yet arranged this, we can still talk you through the process and connect you with trusted finance professionals. Pre-approval is also how participating lenders assess eligibility for products such as a First Home Loan.
Can I use KiwiSaver or a First Home Loan?
If you are buying to live in the home and meet the criteria, KiwiSaver first-home withdrawal and some low-deposit lending options may be available. KiwiSaver first-home withdrawal cannot be used to buy an investment property, and approved funds are generally paid to your solicitor on or before settlement day.
What does buying off the plan mean?
Buying off the plan means securing a home before construction is complete, usually based on plans, specifications, renders, and finish schedules. It allows you to reserve the home at today’s price, with the balance paid on completion. If the home is unit title, specific pre-contract disclosure information should also be provided before you sign.
How long will my home take to complete?
Timeframes vary by project, stage of construction, weather, council approvals, title issue, and material supply. We will always give you the most accurate estimated completion window available at the time you enquire, and we will keep you updated if anything changes.
What is included in the purchase price?
Every Honore home comes with a clear inclusions schedule so you know exactly what is included before you sign. This typically covers the home itself, specified appliances, fixtures, fittings, heating, glazing, landscaping, and any exterior works that are part of that release. If something is excluded, we will state it clearly.
Can I make changes or customise finishes?
It depends on the stage of the build. In early stages, there may be opportunities to choose from approved finish palettes or selected upgrades. Once plans, consents, or procurement are locked in, options can become limited. If changes are possible, we will confirm the timing, cost, and any effect on the programme before anything proceeds.
What guarantees and warranties do I receive?
Your home will come with clearly documented builder and manufacturer warranties, plus the protections that apply under New Zealand law. Residential building work in New Zealand also carries implied Building Act protections for up to 10 years, including a 12-month defect repair period after completion. We recommend presenting these as three separate layers: builder guarantee, product warranties, and statutory protections.
Will there be a body corporate or residents association?
Some homes are freehold and some developments may include a body corporate or residents association, depending on the legal structure. If your home is unit title, you automatically become a member of the body corporate and levies contribute to shared costs such as insurance, maintenance, and administration. We will tell you the ownership structure up front and provide the relevant disclosure documents before you sign.
How will I be updated during construction?
We will keep you informed at key milestones throughout the build, with clear email updates and direct communication from our team. Where safe and practical, we can also arrange walkthroughs at appropriate stages so you can see your home taking shape.
Can I inspect the home before settlement?
Yes. Before settlement, we recommend a pre-settlement walkthrough so you can inspect the home, confirm agreed items are complete, and ask any final questions. This is also the right time to talk through manuals, warranties, and handover information.
What happens at handover and settlement?
On settlement day, your lawyer or conveyancer arranges the final payment and legal transfer of ownership. You will need insurance in place from settlement day, and once settlement is confirmed, the keys can be released and your handover pack provided.
Are Honore homes suitable for investors?
Yes. Our homes can suit both owner-occupiers and investors, depending on the development, location, and layout. For investors, the appeal is usually low-maintenance construction, modern compliance standards, quality tenant appeal, and strong long-term location fundamentals.
Where does Honore Developments build?
Honore Developments builds across Auckland, Tauranga, and the Bay of Plenty, with a focus on quality locations and well-considered residential communities. Honore’s public project messaging also emphasizes owner-occupier appeal, quality delivery, and Bay of Plenty depth in places such as Ōmokoroa, Pyes Pa, Ohauiti, Katikati, and Welcome Bay.
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