Buy Your First Home

Jump on the property ladder with expert guidance

Buy Your First Home

Mortgage Lab helps first-home buyers in New Zealand understand borrowing power, deposits, KiwiSaver withdrawals, pre-approval, and lender options before making an offer.

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting – and sometimes overwhelming – experiences you'll have. There's so much to learn: deposits, pre-approvals, LVRs, fixed vs floating rates, and more.

That's where we come in. Our mortgage advisers specialise in helping first home buyers navigate the process from start to finish. We'll help you understand what you can afford, which lenders are right for your situation, and guide you through every step.

We manage the finance process for you while keeping you informed and involved every step of the way. And the best part? Our service is usually at no direct cost to you.

How We Can Help

Calculate how much you can borrow and what properties are in your price range

Help you access your KiwiSaver for your first home deposit

Guide you through the First Home Loan scheme for deposits as low as 5%

Compare options from 27+ lenders to find the best rates and terms

Explain the entire process so you feel confident and informed

Handle all the paperwork and negotiations with lenders on your behalf

Frequently Asked Questions

Almost all of our services are provided at no direct cost to you. We're paid by the lenders when your loan is settled. In some cases, fees may apply (e.g., if you discharge your loan within 27 months), but we'll always discuss these upfront.
Typically, you'll need at least a 20% deposit. However, first home buyers may qualify for the First Home Loan scheme with as little as 5% deposit. Your KiwiSaver savings can also be used toward your deposit. We can help you explore all your options.
Beyond your deposit, expect costs like: valuations ($800-$1,200), legal fees ($800-$1,500), LIM reports ($200-$400), building inspections ($400-$700), and moving costs. We can provide a comprehensive breakdown based on your situation.
Once we have all your documentation, pre-approval typically takes 3-5 working days. Final (unconditional) approval usually takes another 2-5 days after you've made an offer on a property. We work to get approvals as quickly as possible.
Yes! If you've been contributing to KiwiSaver for at least 3 years, you can withdraw most of your savings (minus $1,000) for a first home. We can guide you through the withdrawal process and help you understand how much you can access.

What Our Clients Say

Cindy was with us every step of the way. She would always pick up the phone and gave us great advice and had great insight. She even was on the phone with us on auction night. Would recommend!!

Tim Kuiper

Cindy HuangCindy Huang

I can't say enough great things about Lynne and how she helped me navigate the first home buying experience! From sorting out my finances to pre-approval, to going conditional and finally settling on my home. Lynne was professional, knowledgeable and kind to me throughout. No question was too silly, she was available at all times of the day and night also weekends, nothing seemed like it was too much trouble! From a very nervous first home buyer to a confident home owner, I couldn't have done it without Lynne... she made my dream come true and I can't thank her enough!

Natalie Miernicki

Lynne DentLynne Dent

Nicola made purchasing my first home easy and not at all scary. Right from our first interaction she was pleasant, friendly but also very efficient. She was confident right from the start I would be approved and provided useful tips along the journey. We were in constant contact with Nicola updating me every step of the way. She explained everything well and was a pleasure to work with.

Sedejah Scanlon

Nicola WintersNicola Winters

Ready to Get Started?

Talk to one of our friendly mortgage advisers today. Our service is usually at no direct cost to you.