Feature article

House hunting: what are the different types of properties?

There’s plenty of variety in the NZ housing market.

Victoria Harris
Last updated: 24 September 2025 | 5 min read
AI

AI summary

Understanding property types is key for Kiwi house hunters. Common ownership structures include:

- Freehold: You own both the house and the land.

- Cross Lease: You own the house but share land, requiring neighbour approval for changes.

- Leasehold: You own the dwelling but lease the land, often with body corporate fees.

New Builds may require a lower deposit but risk value drops before settlement. Existing Homes often have larger sections but may need more maintenance.

1. Freehold

2. Cross Lease

3. Leasehold

4. New Build

5. Existing Home

Financial Disclaimer

Author

Victoria Harris Victoria Harris
Co-Founder of The Curve