Buying guide

Home loans for first home buyers: A beginner’s guide

Finance, sorted.

Ben Tutty
Last updated: 27 August 2025 | 5 min read
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Securing your first home loan is a crucial step to homeownership. Start by researching your budget using Trade Me Property Insights and preparing your finances. Aim for a 20% deposit, reduce debt, and maintain a good credit score.

Engage a mortgage broker or bank early for expert advice and pre-approval. While the First Home Grant is unavailable, you can still use your Kiwisaver or explore low-deposit Kāinga Ora loans for assistance before starting your property search.

Get an idea of what your budget needs to be

Get your deposit together

Sort your finances out

Sorting out your finances will make getting your first home loan much easier.

Speak to a professional about home loans for first home buyers

Get as much help as you can

Find the one (or a few)

Arranging finance should be one of the first things you do when buying a home.

Make an offer or bid at auction

Settle and move in

Author

Ben Tutty Ben Tutty
Content Writer