Six months out, prepare for your mortgage journey by organising your finances. Think about how you can:

• Pay down debt and manage expenses.
• Gather financial documents.
• Choose a mortgage adviser to guide you through the process.

Meet with your dedicated mortgage adviser who will:

• Discuss your financial situation and goals.
• Help you to complete a detailed 'Fact Find' to gather necessary information to support your mortgage application.
• Review your KiwiSaver and insurance policies to make sure these align with your homeownership plans.

Your adviser will assist in preparing and submitting your mortgage application making sure to:

• Present your information in the best light to potential lenders.
• Identify suitable lenders based on your needs and circumstances.

It normally takes between 5-10 business days for a bank to review and process an application. Your adviser will monitor your application and advise you as soon as there is an update.  

Your adviser will reach out to various lenders on your behalf to obtain approval up to a certain sum of money, based on certain conditions. Once pre-approval is received from a lender, your adviser will update you on:   

• The amount of money you are able to borrow.
• Any conditions attached to the offer.

Now the fun begins, you can spend your weekends looking for your first home in the knowledge that you have pre-approval and can confidently make an offer!

Once your offer is accepted, your adviser will meet with you to:

• Recommend an optimal loan structure, based on your financial circumstances and aspirations.
• Check you have all necessary insurances organised.
• Ensure all legal and financial aspects are in place with your solicitor.

All mortgage documentation will be sent to your Solicitor for signing ready for your settle date.

Your solicitor will complete the legal settlement process and the bank will transfer the funds.

Congratulations on buying your first home – it’s time to celebrate and prepare to move in!