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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This guide helps first home buyers navigate the home loan process. Start by researching prices on Trade Me Property Insights and securing a deposit, ideally 20%. Before applying, tidy up your finances by showing genuine savings, reducing debt, and maintaining a good credit score.

Speak with a professional like a mortgage broker or bank early on. Explore support options such as Kiwisaver withdrawal or a Kāinga Ora First Home Loan. Get pre-approval 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