The Mindset You Need to Get into Your First Home
Let’s be honest: buying your first home can feel overwhelming. You’re looking at big numbers—large deposits, high interest rates, rising property prices—and wondering if it’s even possible. And yet, every day, Kiwis from all walks of life are stepping into their first homes.
It’s not about being rich. It’s about being prepared. And much of that preparation starts in your head.
1. Start with Hope
You might be thinking: “There’s no way I can afford a house.” But here’s the thing—it’s possible, and you’re not alone. We’ve helped solo buyers, couples on modest incomes, large families, and even first-time buyers in their 50s buy their first home.
The common thread? They believed it could happen. Sometimes reluctantly, sometimes with help—but they started with hope. Picture yourself in your own place, paying off a mortgage instead of rent. It starts there.
2. Get Mentally Prepared for the Long Game
Buying your first home isn’t usually fast. It may take a year or more of planning, saving, or paying down debt. That’s okay. What matters is consistency and commitment.
This means being prepared to:
Delay some short-term pleasures (like holidays or new cars)
Build new habits around spending and saving
Face a few setbacks along the way without giving up
This isn’t a sprint—it’s a structured journey. Mental stamina is just as important as financial preparation.
3. Seek and Accept Help Early
You’re not expected to do this alone. One of the most empowering steps is asking for help early. A mortgage adviser can:
Show you how much you could borrow
Help you understand tools like KiwiSaver and family gifting
Lay out a realistic plan based on your situation
You don’t need all the answers—you just need to ask the right people the right questions. And that starts with a conversation.
4. Make a Practical Plan
Once you know where you’re at and what needs to change, it’s time to plan. Your plan might include:
Paying down high-interest debts
Building a deposit (even a 10% deposit may be enough with the right lender)
Increasing income or improving spending habits
Tools like budgeting spreadsheets, automatic savings, or expense-tracking apps can make a big difference. And you might only need to change one or two small things to get on track.
5. Build Confidence Through Progress
As you start ticking off goals—saving more, reducing debts, getting your credit in shape—you’ll naturally build confidence. And that confidence will help you make smarter decisions.
Confidence also makes it easier to say “no” to things that delay your progress. You’ll find it easier to skip the impulsive purchase or the big overseas trip because you’re focused on something bigger: your own home.
6. Start Now. Even If You’re Not Ready.
There’s no perfect time to start. You don’t need all the paperwork or the answers in hand. Whether you’re six months or two years away, now is the right time to start the conversation.
Getting clarity early means fewer surprises and a smoother path. Your adviser can help you understand what’s possible—and how to make it happen.
You Can Do It
Getting into your first home isn’t just about income or deposit. It’s about mindset. It’s about believing that with a plan, patience, and the right support—you can do it.
So take the first step. Get clarity. Build your plan. And know that we’re here to help every step of the way.