Mortgages

Your guide to negotiating and settling your first home

2 MIN READ
August 28, 2025
You’re nearly there! As you approach the final stages of buying your first home, it’s important to understand the different property purchase methods, the settlement process, and how to structure your mortgage. Here’s what to expect as you get ready to take this exciting step.

 

Understanding property purchase methods
There are several ways to buy a property in New Zealand:

  • Negotiation: Often gives buyers and sellers more flexibility to agree on terms.
  • Auction: Requires all financing and due diligence to be completed beforehand (not recommended if you don’t yet have pre-approval).
  • Tender: Involves submitting your best offer by a set deadline.

Each method comes with its own rules and requirements, so it’s important to know which approach best suits your situation.

Seek advice
Before making an offer, always seek legal advice so you fully understand the terms and implications of the purchase. Your Enva mortgage adviser can connect you with trusted solicitors who offer preferential rates.

You’ll also need to confirm the insurability of the property for mortgage purposes. At Enva, we work with trusted insurance providers to help you secure house insurance, and we can also advise on personal insurance cover, protecting you and your mortgage in the event of unexpected challenges.

You’ll need to meet all your pre-approval conditions before your offer can go unconditional.

Loan structures and settlements
Choosing the right loan structure is an important step in managing your mortgage effectively. You may consider fixed rates, floating rates, or a combination of both, depending on your situation and goals. The right structure can help you manage your repayments and work towards becoming mortgage-free faster. Your Enva adviser will guide you through the best options for your financial situation.

Settlement is the final step where ownership of the property officially transfers to you.  This involves working with your solicitor to arrange the payment of any remaining deposit, executing mortgage documents, drawing down your home loan, and receiving the keys to your new home!

Talk to your adviser
At Enva Mortgages, we’re here to guide you through negotiation, loan structuring, and settlement so you feel confident every step of the way. Call us on 0508 287 672 or complete the form below.

Need more support? Check out our First Home Buyers Guide for step-by-step help on your journey to home ownership.

*The information contained in this blog is for general information purposes only. It is not intended to constitute financial advice and does not take your individual circumstances and financial situation into account. We encourage you to seek assistance from a trusted financial adviser.


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