26 Umere Crescent, Ellerslie, Auckland City, Auckland
Auckland, New Zealand
Guide Price
$693100
1195000 NZD
PROPERTY TYPE
house
BEDROOMS
4
BATHROOMS
2
Description
Discover the perfect marriage of character, comfort, and untapped potential in this stunning north-facing bungalow. Positioned on one of Ellerslie's most prestigious streets, this four-bedroom residence is perfectly oriented to capture all-day sun, offering a highly liveable home today with an exciting canvas for future renovation. The upper level serves as the heart of the home, where a contemporary kitchen flows into an open-plan dining and living area. This light-filled space spills out onto an expansive, sun-soaked deck, creating an idyllic setting for alfresco entertaining and summer evenings. This level also hosts two generous double bedrooms and a family bathroom, ensuring immediate comfort. The lower level introduces a world of versatility, featuring an oversized bedroom with an ensuite, a dedicated study or fourth bedroom, and a spacious laundry. With its own private access, this flexible area is an ideal solution for extended family, a professional home office, or even a potential rental stream to bolster your investment. The outdoor living is equally impressive, featuring a fully fenced garden that serves as a secure, private sanctuary for children and pets to play. Beyond the gate, the lifestyle on offer is truly second to none; a short, level stroll connects you to the vibrant boutiques, artisan cafes, and village atmosphere that define Ellerslie. The home is further complemented by the added convenience of a single garage, while its zoning for the highly regarded Ellerslie Primary School cements this property as a blue-chip opportunity for discerning families. Our vendors are highly motivated and fully committed to a sale. Given the prime
location and the rare combination of move-in readiness and renovation upside, your early inspection is strongly encouraged.
Location
Open in Google MapsLiving in Auckland
Multicultural harbor city that feels like a softer version of California -- great food scene, easy nature access, and a strong work-life balance culture. Housing is expensive (NZ ranks 7th globally for home prices) and everything costs more due to import prices, but salaries come with generous time off and strong worker protections. The biggest adjustment is the distance -- getting home to visit family is a long, expensive flight.
Morning surf before work, weekends tramping through Lord-of-the-Rings landscapes, and a laid-back culture where shoes are optional and nature is never more than ten minutes away.
Visa
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa — points-based system requiring a skilled job offer in NZ. New pathways opening August 2026 for trades workers and those with 5+ years experience. Accredited Employer Work Visa is the faster route if you already have a job offer.
Learn more: The Complete Guide to Moving to New Zealand→Key Fact
NZ has strict biosecurity laws — importing food, plants, or outdoor gear can result in heavy fines. The work-life balance is exceptional, but the job market is small and remote from everywhere.
Learn more: What You Need to Know Before Moving Abroad→New Zealand at a glance
How New Zealand scores for American expats
Cost of buying in New Zealand
Estimated fees and ongoing costs for this property
Closing Costs
3-5% of purchase price
- ·No stamp duty
- ·Legal/conveyancing: NZ$1,500-3,000
- ·Building inspection: NZ$500-800
- ·LIM report: NZ$300-400
Annual Costs
Property Tax
0.3-1.5% of government valuation (varies by council)
Insurance
NZ$1,500-3,000/yr
HOA / Condo Fees
NZ$300-600/mo for apartments (body corporate)
Good to Know
Agent Fees
Seller pays (2.5-4%)
Foreign Buyer Note
Foreign buyers BANNED from existing homes (2018 ban). Can only buy new-build apartments in large developments.
Legal help in New Zealand
Hire your own attorney — not the seller's. We'll match you with a vetted local lawyer.
Need a local attorney in New Zealand?
We'll connect you with an independent, English-speaking real estate attorney experienced with foreign buyers. Not the seller's lawyer — yours.
Contact Agent
Will Gluestein - Megan Jaffe Real Estate Ltd (Licensed: REAA 2008) - Ray White, Ponsonby
Next steps for moving to New Zealand
Interested in this property? Here's how to move forward.
Understand the buying rules
Foreign ownership laws vary wildly by country. Some welcome you, others restrict or ban foreign buyers entirely.
Sort out your visa
Owning property doesn't give you the right to live there. Research residency options before you buy.
Plan your finances
Understand currency risk, international wire transfers, and whether you can get a local mortgage.
Know your tax obligations
US citizens are taxed on worldwide income. You'll need to file US taxes from abroad and may owe local taxes too.
Set up healthcare
Medicare doesn't cover you overseas. You'll need international health insurance or a local plan.
Run the full checklist
Banking, mail forwarding, power of attorney, pet import rules — the complete pre-move checklist.
realestate.co.nz
NZD


