Stamp Duty is payable on house purchases and make sure you know about your Title Deeds and how to get them!
Details on the Stamp Duty & Title Deed page.
It goes without saying that you should insure your home adequately against all risks. Remember this region does have earthquakes and tremors.
Whilst crime is low, burglary is not unheard of, so policies covering this and your home contents make perfect sense.
An issue rarely thought of is Public Liability, and you may want to think about a policy for that too.
The information here is a guide only. Always seek professional independent advice.