Buying Your First Home in New Zealand – A 2025 Guide for First-Time Buyers

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Thinking of buying your first home in Aotearoa? Whether you’re a local or a new resident, purchasing property in New Zealand is a major milestone. Here's a step-by-step guide for 2025 – covering everything from deposits and KiwiSaver to hidden costs and KiwiBuild opportunities.

🏑 1. How Much Deposit Do You Need?

  • Most banks require a 20% deposit

  • With KiwiSaver + First Home Grant, you may only need 10%

  • Example: $800,000 house = $80,000 deposit minimum
    πŸ‘‰ Talk to a mortgage advisor early – it’s free and helpful

πŸ’° 2. KiwiSaver & First Home Grant

  • If you’ve contributed to KiwiSaver for 3+ years, you may qualify for:

    • First Home Grant: Up to $10,000

    • KiwiSaver First-Home Withdrawal (can withdraw almost everything)

  • Income & house price caps apply – check Kāinga Ora’s website

🏦 3. Get Pre-Approved for a Home Loan

  • Banks will assess your income, debt, credit history

  • Having pre-approval shows sellers you're serious

  • Try ASB, ANZ, Westpac, or use a mortgage broker to compare options

πŸ” 4. House Hunting Tips

  • Check TradeMe Property, Realestate.co.nz

  • Attend open homes (especially in Albany, Glenfield, Wairau)

  • Use LINZ and Property Guru to check legal boundaries, CV, and zoning

πŸ› ️ 5. Hidden Costs to Watch

  • Lawyer/conveyancing: $1,500–$2,500

  • LIM Report (Local Council Info): $300–$500

  • Building Inspection: $400–$800

  • Moving, maintenance, body corporate (if apartment)

🏘️ 6. KiwiBuild & First Home Schemes

  • KiwiBuild = Government-built homes for first-time buyers

  • Lower prices, often brand new – but limited locations

  • Register online via Kāinga Ora

✅ Final Thoughts

Buying a home in NZ is possible – even in 2025. It just takes planning, budgeting, and guidance from the right people. Talk to professionals and don’t rush. The right home is worth the wait.

Location: Auckland, New Zealand

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