How we make buying your first home simpler, faster, and smarter
Most first-home buyers don’t have a perfect deposit, textbook income, or time to learn lending rules. That’s where we come in — to give you a clear path and the right structure from day one.
You get one shot at doing it right and we’re with you the whole way
From pre-approval through to keys in hand, we manage the process, chase the paperwork, and stay one step ahead — so nothing slips through the cracks.
Flexible lenders mean more ways to get you across the line
We work with both banks and non-banks, so we’re not boxed in. Whether you’ve got a small deposit, self-employed income, or been told “no” before — we’ll find a smarter path to “yes.”
We’ll help you make sense of what you can really afford
No spreadsheets required. We’ll map out what you can borrow, what it’ll cost week to week, and how to put your best foot forward — so you can act with confidence.
We know how KiwiSaver, and gifted deposits actually work
You’ve probably got more buying power than you think. We’ll help you unlock every available dollar — and structure things right to boost your chances of approval.
Use our mortgage calculator to see what’s possible.
Get an estimate of your repayments in seconds — and turn rough numbers into a real plan with expert support.
FAQs about buying your first home
How much deposit do I really need?
While 20% is the ideal, many lenders accept as little as 5–10% for first-home buyers — especially with KiwiSaver or a guarantor. We’ll assess what’s realistic for your situation and guide you through your best options.
Can I use KiwiSaver to buy a home?
Yes. If you're a first home buyer and you've been contributing to KiwiSaver for at least 3 years, you can usually withdraw most of your savings — We'll guide you through.
What if I’ve been turned down by a bank?
We’ve helped hundreds of buyers who were told “no” get the right answer elsewhere. Our lender panel looks beyond tick-box criteria — and we know how to structure your case to make it work.
We work with trusted bank and non-bank lenders
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Read, watch & listen to insights
First Home
Buyers Guide
Development
Finance Guide
Bridging Finance
Made Simple
Self Employed
Borrowing Guide
Investors
Memorandum
What our clients are saying
We needed funding within days to secure a development site. The banks said no—Luminate said yes. Funds landed within 48 hours and we didn’t miss the deal.
Mike T.
As a self-employed couple, we were getting knocked back left and right. Luminate understood our situation and structured a mortgage that worked. Game-changer.
Andrea & Tim D.
My bank gave me the runaround for months. Luminate had my loan approved in a week—even with a tricky credit history. Can’t thank them enough.
Lucy M.
Trent and Farea - you rocked it :). It was the easiest and the best first home mortgage advice/transaction we have ever had. Farea Khan went above and beyond.
Jashnil K.
We contacted them with the feeling was “give it a try, but no hope”. And now we are sitting on our couch in our living room in our new house and waiting for Christmas.
Marita H.
Total rock stars and know the financing game inside out - extreme professionalism, high level contacts, and a true understanding of the numbers.
Kesh M.
Still renting? Let’s build your exit plan.
Book a free, no-pressure call with a Luminate adviser. We’ll tell you what’s possible, what you’ll need — and how to move from 'thinking about it' to turning the key.
Market & interest rate updates
More home loan offerings
Refinance your home loan
Refinance your home loan for better rates. Adapt to market changes, lower payments, and save big over time. Boost cash flow with Luminate’s expert guidance.
Build a new home
Building a home? Luminate secures construction loans, navigates lender challenges, and tailors terms to fit your budget and timeline.
Buying your second home
Upsize, downsize, or rightsize your home? Luminate finds the best loan options, negotiates with banks and lenders, and secures funds for your next move.
Build your wealth through property investment
From first-time investors to seasoned landlords, we shape lending solutions around your goals, income, and long-term plans.
