Frequently Asked Questions
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Who is Citrus Living and what do you do?
Citrus Living is a New Zealand-based home builder focused on delivering high-quality, affordable homes. We manage the entire development process – from land acquisition and design through to construction and handover. We have delivered 550+ homes across Auckland and Christchurch. Learn more.
Are your homes turnkey?
Yes, all our homes are fully turnkey – meaning they’re move-in ready with landscaping, appliances, window coverings, and final touches included: no hidden costs or unexpected extras.
What is the Sound Rating of your Homes? Will I hear my neighbours?
At Citrus Living, we use the highest sound-rated inter-tenancy walls, providing a Sound Transmission Class of STC 67. In comparison, the minimum building code is STC 55, with the majority of other developers using STC 61. The higher the better.
Will I hear my neighbours? An STC 67 rating is 200% quieter than an STC 61 (most developers) and 400% quieter than STC 55 (Building Code performance), so you will barely hear your neighbours – if at all.
Do you offer help for first-home buyers?
Absolutely. We work with first-home buyers every step of the way and can connect you with mortgage advisors, lawyers, and support for KiwiSaver use and First Home Grants.
Can I customise the design or layout?
How do I secure a home in one of your developments?
You can register your interest online or contact our sales team directly. Once you’ve selected a unit, we guide you through signing a Sale & Purchase Agreement and applying for finance (if needed).
How does payment work?
A 10% deposit is required when the agreement is confirmed. The balance is paid at settlement, usually funded by your bank mortgage.
Your deposit is safely held in our solicitor’s trust account until settlement, giving you peace of mind throughout the process.
What’s the typical size of your homes?
Our townhouses typically are 70-75m² for our 2-bedroom homes, with a focus on efficient layouts that maximise usable space without compromising comfort or style.
Where are your developments located?
We currently develop homes across Christchurch, Auckland, and other high-growth areas in New Zealand. All projects are positioned close to transport, amenities, and schools. Learn more.
What kind of warranty comes with the home?
At Citrus Living, every home includes a 12-month defects period and a 10-year structural and weather tightness warranty, in accordance with the Building Act. All chattels and materials are brand new and come with their own manufacturer warranties, giving you peace of mind from the moment you move in.
How long does construction take?
Timelines vary by project and how many homes are being built, but most homes are completed within 6–8 months from the start of construction. We provide monthly updates on our website here.
Do our contracts to purchase our homes include a sunset clause?
Yes, our contracts do include a sunset clause, which is a standard provision in off-the-plan agreements. It provides a buffer in case of unavoidable delays, such as weather disruptions or council processing, while also protecting you as the buyer. If a project extends well beyond the expected timeline, the clause gives you the right to cancel the contract.
Unfortunately, some developers have misused sunset clauses to cancel contracts in a rising market and resell at higher prices. At Citrus Living, we don’t operate that way. Our contracts are structured to prevent us from cancelling on buyers for profit.
What type of title comes with a Citrus Living home?
All Citrus Living homes are sold with a freehold title, giving you full ownership of your property and a share of any common areas. A residents’ association is set up to help maintain these shared spaces and protect the value of your investment.
What is a Residents Association, how much will it cost me? and why is it better than a Body Corporate?
A Residents’ Association is set up to manage and maintain shared areas within a development, like driveways, landscaping, lighting, and communal spaces.
At Citrus Living, these associations typically cost under $3,000 per year in Auckland and under $2,500 in Christchurch, depending on the development.
Unlike a Body Corporate, which is governed by the Unit Titles Act and often involves higher fees and complex legal requirements, a Residents’ Association is simpler, more affordable, and gives homeowners greater control. It covers only the shared spaces and operates under rules agreed upon by the residents themselves.
When buying a property, make sure the Residents association is setup as an Incorporated Society to give more robust protection over your asset.