Whether you're coming for work, family or a change of pace, moving to a new city is a big step. Here's how I'd approach it if you're thinking of making Invercargill or Southland home, from what to expect when you arrive to the practical things worth sorting out first.
What to expect
- A compact, easy city. Getting around is simple, with short trips to work, school and the shops.
- A cooler climate. Winters are cold and frosty, and summers are mild. It's a big reason homes here are built and heated the way they are, and why it's worth looking closely at insulation and heating.
- The south at your doorstep. Bluff and the coast are close, and Fiordland, Te Anau and Queenstown are an easy road trip. Flights connect you to the main centres.
- Homes that go further. Compared with the main centres, many people find their money goes a lot further here, whether that's a character villa, a solid brick home or a newer build.
1. Work out what you want
Think about the kind of home, the size of the section, your budget and how you'll get around. Writing down your must-haves and nice-to-haves gives you a clear picture before you start looking.
Some things are worth thinking about early here: a garage or off-street parking, how much sun the house gets, how warm and dry it will be, and whether you want a low-maintenance section or room to spread out. If you have children, check school zones before you choose a suburb, because they can shape where you look.
2. Visit before you commit
If you can, spend a few days here, ideally including a weekend. A good visit might include:
- Driving through several suburbs, at different times of day, to see what each one feels like.
- Doing the trip to work or school at the time you'd really make it.
- Having a look at the supermarkets, parks, cafes and sports grounds you'd actually use.
- Going to a few open homes, even if you're not ready to buy, to get a sense of prices and what you get.
If you can manage a visit in winter, you'll get a true feel for the climate too.
3. Consider renting first
Renting for a few months gives you time to learn the area and find the right neighbourhood before you buy. It also means you can start your new job or settle the kids into school without the pressure of a purchase on top. It isn't for everyone, but it can take the stress out of the move, and it's a good way to test a suburb before you commit.
4. Sort your finance
Talk to a lender or mortgage adviser early, especially if you're moving from overseas or from another part of the country. They can tell you what you'll need to be approved, and a pre-approval tells you what your budget really is. If you still need to sell a home elsewhere, tell them, because timing can affect how your finance is set up.
5. Get the practical things done
- Check school zones and contact the schools early if you have children
- Arrange power and internet, and check what is available at the address
- Find a doctor and a dentist. Some practices have waiting lists, so enrol early
- Update your address, driver licence and vehicle details
- Check your insurance, and arrange cover for your move
- Work out your heating and insulation for winter
6. Think about winter
It's the one thing newcomers most often underestimate. When you look at homes, ask about insulation, double glazing, how the house is heated and how easy it is to dry washing. A home that's warm and dry makes a big difference to how comfortable and affordable your first winter is. We've covered what to look for in keeping warm in Southland.
7. Meet the community
Southland is a friendly place. Clubs, sports, community groups and local events are a great way to meet people and feel at home, and volunteering is another good way in. Many newcomers say joining something in the first few months is what made the move feel like home.
Ready to start looking?
When you find a home you like, what to check before you make an offer is a useful read. And if you'd like to talk through the areas, prices or timing, I'm happy to help, even if you're still months away.
Quick tip
Tell me what you're looking for through the Buyers Loop, and I'll keep an eye out for suitable homes while you plan your move.
This is general information only, not legal, financial or building advice. Rules and market conditions change, so check the details with your lawyer, lender or the relevant authority before making decisions.
