First Home Buyers Blog:
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- Auctions 1
- Buying Your First Home 2
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- First Home Buyer Tips 6
- First Home Buyers 4
- Home Loan Preparation 1
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- Insurance & Risk Protection 1
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- Mortgage Advice 5
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What First Home Buyers Need to Know When Considering Buying at Auction
Buying your first home at auction in New Zealand can be a daunting experience, but it also offers a fast and decisive way to secure a property. With no conditions allowed and immediate legal commitment required, it’s crucial to be fully prepared before raising your hand to bid. This guide breaks down everything first home buyers need to know—from getting pre-approved and completing due diligence, to understanding how auctions work and what to expect on the day.
How to Work With Real Estate Agents When Buying Your First Home
Navigating the New Zealand property market as a first home buyer can be daunting. One of the most underrated resources available to buyers is a knowledgeable real estate agent. In this guide, we explore how agents can support your property search, the pros and cons of using them, and how to work with agents effectively to achieve your home ownership goals.
Why Building Reports Are Essential for First Home Buyers
Protection Plan: Insurance for Your First Home
Buying your first home is a huge milestone—but have you thought about how you’ll protect it? From home and contents to mortgage repayment insurance, having the right cover in place can be just as important as securing the keys. In this in-depth guide, we walk you through the different types of insurance every first home buyer in New Zealand should understand—and why they matter.
Pre-Approvals vs Live Deals: What First Home Buyers Need to Know
Understanding the difference between a mortgage pre-approval and a live deal is essential for first home buyers navigating the New Zealand property market. This blog explains how each stage works, why timing matters, and how to use expert advice to your advantage when making an offer.
Understanding Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) and How It Affects Your Deposit
Loan-to-Value Ratio (LVR) is a key factor in how much deposit you’ll need to buy your first home. Find out what LVR means, how it works, and what it means for you as a first home buyer in New Zealand.
Should I Use a Mortgage Adviser or Go Direct to the Bank?
Confused about whether to use a mortgage adviser or deal directly with your bank? This blog compares the benefits of each option, helping you decide what’s right for your first home purchase.
Understanding Low Equity Margins and Premiums in New Zealand
Purchasing your first home comes with its share of financial considerations. If your deposit is less than 20% of the property's value, lenders may impose additional costs known as Low Equity Margins (LEMs) or Low Equity Premiums (LEPs). Let's delve into what these terms mean and how they can impact your mortgage.
7 Steps to Get Mortgage-Ready for Your First Home
Getting a home loan for your first home? Make sure you’re prepared. These 7 essential steps will help you get your finances in shape and give you the best chance of mortgage approval.
Want To Afford Your First Home Mortgage? Make Sure You Have a Monthly Surplus
Having a healthy monthly surplus is essential to afford a mortgage comfortably. Learn how to calculate your surplus, why it matters to lenders, and how to improve your financial position.
The Impact of Credit Scores on Mortgage Approval: Tips for First-Time Buyers
Negotiation Strategies for First Home Buyers in New Zealand
How Market Volatility Can Hurt First Home Buyers Using KiwiSaver
How To Get A Mortgage For Your First Home In New Zealand
The Importance of a LIM Report: What You Need to Know
Buying Property With Others: Things To Be Aware Of
Happy New Year: 2025, The Year Of The First Home Buyer
So, You Think You are Ready to Make an Offer?
Often first home buyers don’t know where to start or when they are ready to make their first offer. As a first home buyer, there is often so much information to process, that it can feel overwhelming.
The Challenges of Cross Lease Properties
Cross lease developments started in the late 1950s and it allows multiple people to jointly own a section of land and the structures on it. It is a combination of freehold and leasehold ownership.
Why your KiwiSaver Fund Choice is so Important for First-Home Buyers
Choosing the right KiwiSaver fund is an important decision - especially if you're planning to use your savings for a first home withdrawal. The right fund should align with your time frame to buy a house - are you buying within the year, or are you still in saving mode? - and your risk tolerance - how much fluctuation could you handle?