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Can I buy

If you’re wondering whether you’re ready to buy your first home, you’re not alone.

One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that you need a 20% deposit, a high income or everything perfectly organised before speaking to a mortgage adviser.

The reality is that everyone’s situation is different.

Whether you’re saving your deposit, planning to use KiwiSaver, buying on your own, or simply trying to understand your options, the best place to start is by understanding where you stand today.

That’s exactly what these resources are here to help you do.

Deposit and savings

Understand how much deposit you may need, how KiwiSaver works, and the different ways first-home buyers build their deposit.

Resources

  • How much deposit do I need?
  • Can I use my KiwiSaver?
  • Hidden costs of buying a home
  • Deposit checklist

 

Borrowing power

Learn what banks look at when assessing a home loan application and the factors that can influence how much you may be able to borrow.

Resources

  • How much can I borrow?
  • What do banks look for?
  • Income and affordability explained
  • Common reasons applications are declined

Button: Explore Borrowing Power →

Getting ready

Buying a home isn’t just about saving a deposit. Small changes can make a big difference when it comes to preparing for a mortgage.

Resources

  • Preparing for pre-approval
  • Improving your position before applying
  • Documents you’ll need
  • Building a strong application

Not sure where you stand?

Every first-home buyer’s situation is different.

If you’re unsure whether you’re ready to buy, let’s have a conversation. I’ll help you understand your options, answer your questions, and create a personalised plan based on your goals.

You don’t need to have everything figured out before reaching out.

Quick answers

Can I buy with less than a 20% deposit?

In many cases, yes. While a 20% deposit can provide access to more lending options and lower interest rates, many first-home buyers purchase with a smaller deposit. The right option depends on your overall financial position.

Can I use my KiwiSaver as my full deposit?

If you meet the eligibility criteria, you may be able to withdraw most of your KiwiSaver balance to put towards your first home.

How much could I borrow?

Every lender assesses applications differently. Your borrowing power depends on factors such as your income, expenses, existing commitments, deposit, and the lender’s assessment criteria.

View all FAQs →

Related resources

  • How Do I Buy?Learn what happens after you’re ready to purchase.
  • Want to buy sooner?Discover practical strategies that could help you reach home ownership faster