Buying guide

The complete beginner's guide to buying a house in New Zealand

Your 7-step guide to buying a house with clarity and confidence

Hannah Hilliam
By Hannah Hilliam (Content Writer)
Last updated: 22 October 2025 | 4 min read

Here’s what we’ll cover:

Keys steps to buying a property in NZ

Step 1: Get Financially Ready

Step 2: Explore mortgage & loan options

Getting pre-approval means certainty over how much you can borrow for your home loan.

Step 3: Start your property search

Step 4: Do your due diligence

You'll get used to viewing homes, and knowing what to look out for.

Step 5: Making an offer

Step 6: Completing the purchase

Step 7: You’re a homeowner!

Final Words

Author

Hannah Hilliam Hannah Hilliam

Discover More

Aerial view of the tiny house

Seeking the simple life? Remote off-grid bach in native bush with private valley

The tiny home was brought in on the back of a truck.

exterior of Wellington Yellowstone-inspired property

Calling all Yellowstone fans: this US-inspired home is country living on a grand scale

The home is built from macrocarpa grown on or near the property.

Advice & Tools

PROPERTY NEWSLOOKING TO BUYTHINKING ABOUT SELLINGHOME INSPIRATION

Search

Other articles you might like

House with illustration of someone searching for a new property
Buying guide | 2 min read
Tools to help you find your dream home

Buying property in New Zealand? These handy tools will help make the journey smoother.

Sold signs for homes sold by auction
Buying guide | 3 min read
9 tips for frustrated buyers on how to win at auction

Nine simple strategies from top auctioneers and agents to help you win on auction day.

People making an offer for a deadline sale
Buying guide | 2 min read
Buying guide: What is a deadline sale?

What does a deadline sale mean in NZ real estate? Here’s how it works and what buyers need to know.

Start a listing icon
Start a listing
Watchlist icon
Watchlist
Favourites icon
Favourites
Sign up icon
My Trade Me
© 2026 Trade Me Limited