Open homes: what to do, ask and look for
A short checklist for making good use of an open home.
- Read the listing first, then walk the whole property before you start asking questions.
- Check ceilings, window frames, wall corners, wet areas, roof, drainage, decks and cladding for signs of damp or damage.
- Ask about the title type, the chattels list, any work done without consent, and any open consents.
- Check phone and internet signal, noise and sun at different times of day.
- Keep your budget, timing and enthusiasm to yourself, and ask for a private viewing if you are serious.
Check the details. Ask your lawyer and a builder to check anything you spot, and ask the council for the LIM before you offer.What does LIM mean?A LIM (land information memorandum) is a report from the local council about the property, such as its rates and what the council's records hold on it. settled.govt.nz (Te Kāhui Kāinga Ora / REA): Understanding the sale and purchase agreement
Official pages
Shortened from a Berry article first written 2026-05-02. Figures we could not check against a public source were taken out. This is general information, not advice.