Buying guide

Alternative homeownership: Support for low deposit buyers

Learn about schemes designed to help low deposit buyers get on the property ladder.

6 June 2023

Gill South
AI

AI summary

Struggling with a house deposit? Alternative homeownership schemes offer a pathway onto the property ladder by sharing the initial purchase cost. These co-ownership models allow you to buy out the partner's share over time.

Key options include the government-backed Kāinga Ora First Home Partner scheme, the charity-based NZ Housing Foundation, privately-funded YouOwn, and the Squirrel Launchpad loan for high-income earners. Each has specific eligibility criteria, providing valuable alternatives for first-home buyers in New Zealand.

Here are some schemes available for low deposit buyers in New Zealand:

The Kāinga Ora First Home Partner scheme

Only certain homes are eligible for the First Home Partner Scheme.

New Zealand Housing Foundation shared ownership

YouOwn shared ownership

Squirrel Launchpad home loan for those high on income, low on deposit

Author

Gill South Gill South
Business and property journalist