Buying Your First Home?
Let's Make It Simple.
AML Home Loans takes the stress out of your first purchase — from KiwiSaver withdrawals and First Home Grants to finding the lender that says yes. We guide you every step of the way, at no cost to you.
First Homes Settled
200+ Kiwi Families
Your Path to Home Ownership
Five simple steps from your first conversation to picking up the keys — we handle the hard parts so you don't have to.
Free Discovery Chat
Tell us about your goals, savings, and timeline. No obligations, no jargon — just honest advice.
Check Your Borrowing Power
We calculate how much you can borrow and confirm your KiwiSaver and grant eligibility.
Find Your Best Loan
We search multiple lenders and present the options that best match your needs and budget.
Apply with Confidence
We prepare and lodge your application — managing the bank so you don't have to.
Get the Keys
Settlement day arrives. You get the keys. We stay in touch for your next milestone.
Why First Home Buyers Choose AML
We've helped hundreds of Kiwi families buy their first home. Here's what sets us apart from going directly to a bank.
Multiple Lenders, One Adviser
We search the whole market — major banks and specialist lenders — and present your best options in plain English.
Completely Free to You
No broker fees, no hidden costs. We are paid by the lender after your loan settles. Your first home costs enough as it is.
KiwiSaver & Grant Experts
We maximise every dollar available to you — from KiwiSaver withdrawals to the First Home Grant and the First Home Loan scheme.
One Person, All the Way
A dedicated adviser manages your application from first call to settlement — no being passed between departments.
Unlock Every Dollar
Available to You
New Zealand has a range of support schemes for first home buyers that many people don't know they qualify for. We check every one of them as part of your free consultation — at no extra cost.
KiwiSaver First Home Withdrawal
After 3+ years of contributions, you can withdraw most of your KiwiSaver balance to use as part of your deposit.
First Home Grant
Up to $5,000 for an existing home or $10,000 for a new build — per eligible buyer. Doubles for couples.
First Home Loan (5% Deposit)
Kāinga Ora's scheme allows eligible buyers to purchase with just a 5% deposit — far below the standard 20%.
Common Hurdles — Solved
Buying your first home comes with obstacles. We know how to navigate every one of them.
Not Enough Deposit
Between KiwiSaver, the First Home Grant, and low-deposit loan schemes, the 20% barrier may be lower than you think. We map out every option available to you.
Credit History Concerns
Imperfect credit is not a dead end. We work with lenders who look at your full picture — income, stability, and repayment ability — not just a score.
Self-Employed Income
Self-employed buyers need specialist lenders who understand variable income. We know exactly who to approach and how to present your financials to get approved.
Property Type Restrictions
Leasehold, units under 50m², and cross-lease titles can complicate lending. We know which lenders accept each property type and how to avoid nasty surprises.
Tight Deadlines
Found a home with a short conditional period? We can fast-track your application to meet the timeline — with a complete file prepared upfront to avoid delays.
Buying with Others
Whether you're buying with a partner, family member, or friend, we structure your joint application correctly — including ownership splits and exit planning.
Know What You Can Afford
Before You Fall in Love
The biggest mistake first home buyers make is looking at properties before knowing their borrowing limit. Get pre-approved first — so when you find the right home, you can move fast and with confidence.
5%
Min. deposit possible
$10k
Max. First Home Grant
3–7
Days to pre-approval
First Home Buyer FAQs
Real answers to the questions we hear most — straight from our advisers.
How much deposit do I need?
Most New Zealand lenders require a minimum 10–20% deposit for a first home. However, through the First Home Loan scheme (backed by Kāinga Ora), eligible buyers can purchase with as little as 5% deposit. We'll assess your situation and show you the most accessible path to ownership.
Can I use my KiwiSaver?
Yes — and it's one of the most powerful tools available to first home buyers. If you've been contributing to KiwiSaver for at least 3 years, you may be able to withdraw most of your balance to put towards your deposit. You may also qualify for the First Home Grant of up to $10,000. We'll confirm your eligibility and help you maximise both.
What if my credit score isn't great?
A less-than-perfect credit history doesn't automatically disqualify you. We work with a wide range of lenders — including non-bank lenders who look beyond your credit score and focus on your current situation and repayment ability. We'll assess your file honestly and recommend the strongest path forward.
How long does it take?
From your first conversation to pre-approval typically takes 3–7 business days when your documents are ready. Settlement on a property then usually follows within 4–6 weeks after your offer is accepted. We work at your pace and keep you updated every step of the way.
Do you charge fees?
No. Our mortgage advisory service is completely free to you. We're paid a commission by the lender once your loan settles — there are no hidden costs, no upfront fees, and no obligation after your initial conversation.
Can I switch from my bank?
Absolutely. Many first home buyers assume they have to use their existing bank — but shopping around (or letting us shop for you) often results in a significantly better rate and structure. We compare multiple lenders and handle the switch entirely, including managing break costs if applicable.
What is the First Home Grant?
The First Home Grant is a government grant of up to $5,000 for an existing home, or up to $10,000 for a new build — per eligible buyer. If you're purchasing with a partner, that doubles. Eligibility depends on your KiwiSaver contributions, income, and the property price cap in your region. We'll confirm if you qualify as part of your free consultation.
What is the First Home Loan scheme?
The First Home Loan (backed by Kāinga Ora) allows eligible buyers to purchase with just a 5% deposit — less than half the standard 20% requirement. Income and house price caps apply, and only approved lenders offer it. We know exactly which lenders participate and whether you qualify.
What documents do I need?
Typically you'll need: 3 months of bank statements, 2 recent payslips (or 2 years of tax returns if self-employed), a copy of your ID, and your KiwiSaver balance statement. We'll send you a personalised checklist after your first chat so nothing gets missed.
Can I buy with a partner or friend?
Yes — joint applications are common and can increase your combined borrowing power. We'll structure the loan to suit your ownership arrangement (joint tenancy or tenants in common) and ensure both parties understand the responsibilities involved.
Ready to Buy Your First Home?
Book a free, no-obligation chat with one of our first home specialists. We'll map out exactly how to get you there — faster than you think.