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.


Mortgage Lab’s mission is to be the digital town square for financial decision-makers to gain knowledge about their current and future mortgage.
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