Here’s how we make flexible lending work for real life
Getting declined by the bank isn’t the end of the road. We help everyday Kiwis turn “no” into “here’s how.”
Low-deposit lending from
5–10%
You don’t always need 20%. We work with lenders who accept smaller deposits — especially if you have good income, strong rental history, or family support. We’ll structure it to stack up.
Support if your credit history isn’t perfect
Missed payments? Old defaults? We help you access lenders who focus on where you’re going — not just where you’ve been. We’ll help present your case the right way.
Creative solutions beyond the bank
We have access to non-bank and alternative lenders who specialise in situations the banks can’t help with — from self-employed borrowers to those rebuilding after life events.
A realistic plan to get you in, and move you up
We’ll explain what’s possible now, what might need work, and how to refinance into sharper terms when you’re ready. No false promises — just a clear roadmap.
FAQs about lending with credit issues or low deposits
Can I really get a home loan with past credit issues?
Yes — depending on the details. We look at when the credit issues happened, how severe they were, and what your financial situation looks like now. Some lenders are happy to lend if the issues are older or explainable. We’ll position your case to give you the best chance — and be honest if it’s not quite time yet.
What’s the minimum deposit I actually need?
Some non-bank lenders will accept 5–10%, especially with strong income or a guarantor. We'll also look at how your KiwiSaver, or gifted funds could boost your deposit — and structure things to work with what you’ve got.
Can I improve my position over time?
Yes — and we’ll show you how. Sometimes a “no” now just means a “yes” six months from now with a few changes. We’ll give you a plan to improve your score, your deposit, or your financials so you're in the best shape possible next time.
Ready for a real conversation about what’s possible?
Book a free, no-pressure call with a Luminate adviser. We’ll help you understand your options and put a clear plan in place — even if the bank said no.
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.
Our specialist lending solutions
Self-employed borrowers
Your income may not be traditional — but we know how to present it. From low-doc loans to tailored structures, we help contractors, sole traders, and business owners get the lending they need.
Bridging & short-term loans
Buy before you sell, fund urgent settlements, or keep your project on track. We move fast — with lenders who specialise in time-sensitive funding.
Second mortgages & debt consolidation
Top up your lending without disturbing your main home loan. A second mortgage can unlock equity for renovations, business cashflow, or simplify multiple debts into one.
