Real Estate in Christchurch, New Zealand
Last updated on Jun 02, 2023
Summary: People living in Christchurch, New Zealand offer advice about real estate. How do you find a home in Christchurch? Should you buy or rent? What is the cost of housing?
How do I find a place to live in Christchurch?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Christchurch involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget and the type of accommodation you're looking for. This could range from a single room in a shared house, a studio apartment, or a larger family home. Next, you should research different neighborhoods in Christchurch to find one that suits your lifestyle and needs. Some popular areas include Riccarton, Merivale, and Sumner. Consider factors such as proximity to work or school, access to public transportation, safety, and nearby amenities such as shops, restaurants, and parks. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find rental listings, such as Trade Me Property, realestate.co.nz, and nzflatmates. These websites allow you to filter results based on your preferences, such as location, price, and property type. In addition to online listings, you may also want to consider engaging a real estate agent. They can provide valuable local knowledge, help you navigate the rental process, and potentially give you access to listings before they are publicly advertised. When you find a property you're interested in, you'll typically need to fill out an application and provide references. It's also common to pay a bond (usually equivalent to four weeks' rent) and the first week's rent in advance. Finally, before signing a lease, make sure to thoroughly inspect the property. Check for any signs of damage or maintenance issues, and ensure that any appliances or fixtures included in the rental are in good working order. If you're not familiar with New Zealand tenancy laws, you may want to seek legal advice to ensure your rights are protected," said one person in Christchurch.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Christchurch?
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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