Sort your goals, your money and your team first — buyers who do move faster and negotiate better when the right place shows up.
Start here
Why are you buying — first home, more space, a downsize, an investment? The answer shapes everything: suburb, budget, property type, even the method of sale you should be comfortable with.
Most lenders look for around 20% — on a $700,000 purchase, $140,000 of your own money — though low-deposit options exist. Don't confuse this with the purchase deposit (usually about 10% of the sale price), paid through your bank or your lawyer once an agreement is signed or goes unconditional.
Shop around, compare structures (fixed, floating, split) and consider a mortgage adviser — they're usually paid by the lender, not you. The more deposit you have and the faster you repay, the less the house really costs.
Pre-approval is your green light. It tells you your real price range, lets you move quickly when the right home appears, shows agents and vendors you're a serious buyer — and it's essential if you plan to bid at auction, because an auction purchase is unconditional on the spot.
Gifted deposits, guarantees and co-buying with family all work — but treat them as the legal arrangements they are. Everyone gets independent legal advice, and co-ownership deserves a written agreement covering shares, costs and exits.
If you're buying and selling within a short window the bright-line rule may tax your gain, and GST can apply if either party is GST-registered. Anything other than "buying a home to live in" — talk to an accountant first.
Line up your property lawyer before you start looking; good properties move fast. They'll check titles, review agreements before you sign, and handle settlement. They'll also need to verify your ID — standard anti-money-laundering practice.
Choose a qualified inspector early (professional indemnity insurance, NZ inspection standard) so you can book fast. And get insurance quotes early too — lenders won't advance funds without cover in place for settlement day.
A licensed agent must deal with you fairly, disclose known defects and back up claims with evidence — so ask us anything and expect straight answers. Check any agent's licence at rea.govt.nz.
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice — always get independent advice before signing anything. See also the Real Estate Authority's settled.govt.nz and sorted.org.nz.
If you're selling to buy, start with a free online estimate — no cost, no obligation.