First Home Buyer

A First Home Buyer often has questions about deposits, KiwiSaver withdrawals and how much they may be able to borrow.

Our role is to help first home buyers understand their options and navigate the mortgage process with confidence.

Why a First Home Buyer Needs Expert Guidance

Many first home buyers don’t know where to start when it comes to mortgages. From understanding first home loan options to navigating mortgage broker services in Hamilton, having a local adviser makes all the difference. We simplify the process and explain everything in plain English.

Many first home buyers are unsure how things like KiwiSaver withdrawals or other deposit options work, and understanding these early can make the home buying process much smoother.

Check out our Frequently Asked Questions at the bottom of the page

Our First Home Buyer Services Include:

First home mortgage advice Waikato – personalised guidance for your situation
Mortgage options comparison – see what works best for you
Step-by-step guidance – understand how mortgages work in NZ
Local support – expert advice from a trusted Hamilton mortgage broker

We can also help first home buyers understand whether they may qualify for support through programmes such as the Kāinga Ora First Home Loan.

Ready to Take the Stress Out of Your First Home Purchase?

Book your free consultation with Andre Stokes today and get first home loan advice in Waikato tailored to you.

Andre was very professional in approach and friendly at the same time. We got all the information at the right time and stage. Very pleased with the outcome. Keep up the good work.

Andre is great - knows what he's doing and gets the job done. Was a very easy experience buying our first home very happy!

Andre was awesome! Helped us through the madness of buying our first home, professional, knowledgeable, responded quickly to our questions and he a great sense of humor. From Anton and Jess.... A BIG THANK YOU!!!

Andre has been our mortgage broker for our first and second home purchase and he guided us through the entire process. He's always available for a chat and happy to talk night and day, even when he's on holiday! He has always negotiated competitive interest rates and also advises us regarding our insurance options. Happy days!

Buying Your First Home in New Zealand – Step by Step

Step 1: Check Your Finances

Review your savings, income, and expenses.
Calculate your deposit (usually 5–20% for first-home buyers).
Check your credit score — a good credit history can help secure a better mortgage.
Kāinga Ora provides government support to help eligible first-home buyers into home ownership.

Step 2: Understand Your Mortgage Options

Learn how mortgages work in NZ
Compare mortgage types: fixed, floating, or mixed.
Consider working with a mortgage broker for expert guidance.

Step 3: Get Pre-Approval

Apply for a pre-approved mortgage to know your budget.
Pre-approval shows sellers you are a serious buyer.
Makes your home purchase faster and smoother.

Step 4: Start House Hunting

Research areas in Waikato or your target location.
List your must-haves vs nice-to-haves.
Attend open homes and ask questions about the property and neighbourhood.

Step 5: Make an Offer

Decide on your offer price based on market value and your budget.
Include conditions like LIM reports, building inspections, or finance approval.
Negotiate with the seller if needed.

Step 6: Complete Legal & Financial Checks

Engage a lawyer or conveyancer to handle legal documents.
Conduct a building inspection and check council records.
Finalise your mortgage and arrange insurance (home, contents, life if desired).

Step 7: Settlement & Moving In

Your lawyer arranges settlement day — funds are transferred, and ownership is confirmed.
This can take until 5pm to happen.
Collect the keys and move in!
Plan for ongoing mortgage repayments.

Frequently Asked Questions by First Time Buyers

Do I need a deposit if I’m a first home buyer?

Yes, but for first home buyers, the required deposit can be lower (for example, via schemes like Kāinga Ora First Home Loan).

What is the Kāinga Ora First Home Loan?

The Kāinga Ora First Home Loan helps first-time buyers with lower deposit requirements (sometimes as low as 5%) so they can get into a home sooner.

Can I use my KiwiSaver for a first home deposit?

Yes — many first home buyers use their KiwiSaver savings to help with their deposit.

Do all first home buyers qualify for special lending conditions?

It depends on your financial situation, your income, and other eligibility criteria. A mortgage broker can help you navigate which first-home schemes you might qualify for.

Is there an insurance premium on first home loans?

Yes, for certain first home loans (like Kāinga Ora’s), there's an insurance premium (e.g., 1.2% of the loan) that can either be paid upfront or capitalised into the loan.

What other costs should a first home buyer prepare for?

In addition to the deposit, costs may include legal fees, valuation costs, insurance, and other transaction fees.