Frequently asked questions

Our standard practice is one week, but this is on a case-by-case basis and we will always try our best to work with you.

Yes. Many of our sections are available for purchase before titles are issued. This allows you to secure your preferred section early while the development is still being completed. Settlement will then take place once the title has been issued and all conditions of the Sale & Purchase Agreement have been satisfied.

Contact our friendly sales team @ sales@urbanestates.nz

The standard deposit is 10% of the purchase price. However, we understand every purchaser's circumstances are different, and we're happy to discuss alternative arrangements where required.

Title is the legal record confirming ownership of the land. Settlement is the date the purchase is completed, the balance is paid, and ownership is transferred to you. Settlement takes place 5–10 working days after titles have issued.

The timing of title issuance varies between stages and depends on the completion of civil works and Council approvals. Once the Section 224(c) certificate has been issued by Council, the title is lodged with Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) for issue. The processing time with LINZ is typically around 5–10 working days, although timeframes may vary. An estimated title timeframe can be provided at the time of purchase.

Yes. You are welcome to choose any builder or we can make recommendations.

Once we receive 224(c) you can lodge for building consent. Following this, once you have your section title, you can begin construction but only once your building consent has been approved and issued by the Council.

Building must commence within two years from the date title is issued, as per our covenants.

Yes. Your landscaping plan will be reviewed as part of the Developer Approval process to ensure it meets the requirements of Birchfields Design Guide and Covenants. Once your home is complete or occupied (whichever comes first), all street-facing landscaping must be completed within two months. Your property must then be kept neat and tidy, with lawns maintained and landscaping complying with the Design Guide. Please reach out to approval@urbanestates.nz for any enquiries.

Yes. A remedial bond of $2,000 is held. Once all landscaping and external works have been completed, please get in touch with us at approval@urbanestates.nz to arrange Developer Approval Bond Inspection. If the works meet the required standard, the bond will be refunded. Items that will be reviewed are: completed build as per approval; completed landscaping as per approval; fences stained; reinstatement of berms; and ensuring footpaths and kerbs are damage free.

Land covenants are a set of rules registered on the title of your property that outline the standards for building and landscaping within the development.

Covenants are in place to ensure a high-quality, well-maintained community while helping protect the value and appearance of every property.

Yes. The development includes a nature walkway, providing residents with access to open green space for walking and enjoying the natural surroundings.

Yes. The development is within walking distance of the local primary school and high school, with several preschools also located nearby. Bus stops are conveniently within walking distance, providing easy access to public transport.

Yes. Domestic pets are permitted, provided they comply with the subdivision covenants and all applicable Selwyn District Council requirements. Owners must not allow animals other than household domestic pets (and the term “household domestic pets” does not include goats, sheep, horse, pigs, poultry and beehives) to be kept on the Lot.

Please contact Emma our Sales Manager at emma@urbanestates.nz, and she can direct your enquiry from there.

Yes. Boundary fencing is permitted, provided it complies with the subdivision covenants and Selwyn District Council requirements.

You may build one garden shed, provided it is not visible from the road, is constructed from new materials, complements the house and complies with the Building Act requirements. The covenants do not specifically permit sleepouts or portable buildings.

Yes. You can park a caravan, boat, motorhome, or similar vehicle on your property, provided it is not used for accommodation and is stored in a garage or otherwise appropriately screened so it is not visible from the road.

Duplexes are only permitted on dual service sections, subject to compliance with the subdivision covenants, Design Guide, and all applicable Council requirements.

Once the agreement is countersigned, it will be sent to our lawyer and your lawyer for processing. The agreement will then enter the due diligence period - usually 15 working days - during which time any conditions outlined in the contract are worked through. Once all conditions have been satisfied, the agreement becomes unconditional and will proceed to settlement in accordance with the agreed terms.

While you're waiting for titles, we recommend choosing a builder, working with them to prepare concept plans, and submitting your plans for Developer Approval. This will help ensure you're ready to apply for building consent once your title has been issued.

A soil report provides information about the ground conditions of your section. It helps your builder and engineer determine the appropriate foundation design for your home, ensuring it is safe, compliant, and fit-for-purpose. Most builders will require this report before construction begins.

A flood assessment outlines the potential flood risk for your section based on council requirements and engineering assessments. It provides information on matters such as expected flood levels, minimum floor levels, and any design requirements needed to help protect your home from flooding and ensure it meets regulatory standards. This is usually supplied by Urban Estates.

Before choosing a builder, take the time to research your options to find one that suits your budget, design preferences, and timeline.

Yes. Urban Estates works with a range of reputable building companies. We're happy to put you in touch with several builders so you can compare your options and find the one that best suits your needs, budget, and style. Just get in touch with our team.

Your section will be provided with connections for water, wastewater (sewer), power, and fibre, ready for your builder to connect as part of your home construction.

In addition to the purchase price of the land, you should budget for the construction and landscaping of your home, as well as costs such as legal fees, Council consent fees, utility connections (where applicable), and any upgrades or extras you choose to include. Your builder will be able to provide a detailed estimate based on your plans and specifications.

Developer Approval is the process Urban Estates undertakes to review your build design and landscaping plan to ensure they comply with the subdivision covenants and Design Guide before construction begins. This helps maintain the quality, appearance, and value of the development for all residents.

We have a few simple steps for approval. This will be explained to you by your sales consultant and defined in your Sale & Purchase Agreement. If you do have questions, our contact is approval@urbanestates.nz

Normally it will take 5 working days. We aim to review complete design approval applications as quickly as possible. Timeframes can vary depending on the complexity of the proposal and whether further information is required. Submitting a complete application with all required documentation will help avoid delays.

Yes. If you wish to make changes to your approved plans after receiving Developer Approval, you must submit the proposed changes to approval@urbanestates.nz