First Home Buyers

Buying your first home is easier when finance, legal advice and property checks are organised before the pressure of an offer.

Prepare your budget

Talk with a lender or adviser about deposit, borrowing, repayments and pre-approval. Include rates, insurance, inspections, legal costs, moving and ongoing maintenance. Do not treat pre-approval as unconditional finance for every property.

Check current KiwiSaver and support information

Official information checked on 23 October 2026 distinguishes savings you may withdraw from a loan you must qualify for. Inland Revenue’s KiwiSaver first-home guidance says membership must be at least three years and $1,000 must remain in the account. Funds transferred from an Australian complying superannuation scheme cannot be withdrawn through this process.

Ask your provider what you can withdraw, which documents are needed and when funds can be released. Have your lawyer coordinate the payment arrangements. Previous homeowners should check the separate eligibility pathway with Kāinga Ora and their scheme provider rather than assuming a yes or no from past ownership alone.

First Home Loan may allow eligible buyers a 5% deposit through participating lenders. The lender still assesses your circumstances and the particular property. Government guidance confirms that First Home Grant ended in May 2024 and First Home Partner is full with no new applications being accepted. Do not include those closed schemes as available funding.

Build your advice team

Choose a lawyer before offering. Depending on the property, you may also need a building inspector, valuer, insurer or specialist adviser. Ask what information each adviser needs and how long checks will take.

Compare properties consistently

Write down essential location, size and condition requirements. Review the title and available council documents, inspect carefully and understand the method of sale. For properties outside serviced areas, check water, wastewater and access.

Making an offer

Your salesperson will explain the process, but cannot give legal or financial advice. Have your lawyer review the agreement and any conditions before signing. Browse current homes for sale and register your requirements with Ray White Kerikeri.

Keep the payments and deadlines clear

The deposit due under the sale agreement and the contribution required by your lender are different things. Confirm the actual amount, source of funds and timing with your lawyer and lender. A KiwiSaver withdrawal is not instant, and an auction requires preparation for the particular unconditional terms before you bid.

Use our buying guide for the wider process. Contact the Kerikeri team below with your preferred property type, area or listing address, or call 09 407 8526. Financial eligibility and independent legal advice remain with the relevant provider and your advisers.