Canterbury Home Loans - Duane Aarts

23/03/2026

Buying your first home in Christchurch in 2026?

You might be in a better position than you think.

The market has shifted — prices have stabilised, competition has eased, and first home buyers are still leading the way.

I’ve broken down what’s happening right now (and what it actually means for you) in a simple guide:

Where the market is sitting
What prices are doing
How lending is working
What you should do next

If you’re even thinking about buying, this is worth a read 👇
https://canterburyhomeloans.co.nz/first-home-buyers-christchurch-2026/

If you want help working out where you sit, just flick me a message 👍

Thinking about buying your first home in Christchurch? This guide explains 2026 market trends, prices and tips to help first home buyers get started.

10/03/2026

Do banks actually check your spending habits when applying for a mortgage?

A lot of first-home buyers worry about this.

The truth is banks do review your bank statements — usually the last 90 days — but they’re not analysing every coffee or takeaway.

What they’re really looking for is the overall pattern of your spending.

Things lenders often notice include:

• Buy Now Pay Later accounts
• gambling transactions
• subscriptions and regular spending
• whether your accounts stay within limits
• how consistently you save

It’s less about judging individual purchases and more about making sure the mortgage repayments will be affordable and sustainable.

The good news is that most issues can be sorted before applying for pre-approval.

If you're thinking about buying your first home, this guide explains exactly what banks look for.

👉

When applying for a mortgage in New Zealand, banks review your bank statements and spending habits. Learn what lenders look for and how to prepare for approval.

14/09/2025

08/09/2025

We’re proud to be one of Christchurch’s top-reviewed mortgage brokers.
First-home buyers say the process was easy, professional, and stress-free.

See real Christchurch mortgage broker reviews here:
👉 https://canterburyhomeloans.co.nz/mortgage-broker-reviews-christchurch/

27/05/2025

🏡 Using KiwiSaver for Your First Home? Don’t risk delays or contract issues—find out why you should allow 15 working days for finance approval.

✅ Clear steps
📅 Realistic timeframes
🛡️ Peace of mind

Using KiwiSaver for your home deposit? Learn why a 15 working day finance condition is essential. Avoid delays with this KiwiSaver finance timeline guide.

14/10/2024

📉 How does the OCR rate impact First Home Buyers ? 📉

Learn how the OCR rate cut benefits first home buyers. Find out how a Mortgage Adviser Christchurch can help you access affordable home loans

19/08/2024

🔍 Thinking of buying a home in Christchurch? Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you know exactly what you’re getting into! 🏡

A thorough building inspection is essential to avoid hidden surprises—like structural issues, non-compliance with building codes, or poor insulation. In our latest blog post, we break down why a pre-purchase building inspection is a must-do for every homebuyer.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, protecting your investment starts with knowing the facts. Check out the full article to learn more about how a detailed inspection can save you from costly headaches down the road. 💡

👉https://canterburyhomeloans.co.nz/building-inspection-2024/

Discover why a pre-purchase building inspection is essential before you buy, protecting you from hidden costs and structural issues.

18/07/2024

💡 Thinking about your mortgage? 💡

Good news for homeowners! Banks are predicting that mortgage rates in New Zealand could fall over the next year. This means potential savings for you! Learn how changes in the official cash rate by the RBNZ could affect your home loan rates and what to expect in the coming months. 📉🏠

Discover the latest interest rate predictions in New Zealand. Learn how changes in the OCR by the RBNZ could affect your home loan rates

04/07/2024

🏡 Curious about the new LVR and DTI changes starting July 2024? 📅 Get the essential info every first home buyer and investor needs to know. Read more here!

Learn about the July 2024 DTI changes and LVR rules in NZ. Essential info for first home buyers navigating the new property market regulations

12/06/2024

🏡 Exciting News for First Home Buyers! 🏡

First home buyers are finding 2024 to be a prime year for entering the property market. With lower property prices, low-deposit finance options, and less competition from other buyer groups, the market conditions are highly favourable.

🔹 More Affordable Prices: Get more "bang for your buck" with median prices falling.
🔹 Low Deposit Lending: Take advantage of low-deposit finance schemes.
🔹 Access to KiwiSaver Funds: Boost your deposit savings with KiwiSaver funds and government grants.
🔹 Reduced Competition: Enjoy less competition from other buyer groups.

Thinking about buying your first home? Now's the perfect time! 🏠✨

📞 Contact us today to get started on your journey to homeownership!

Discover why 2024 is an excellent time for first home buyers Christchurch. Market trends, low-deposit lending, and how to get value for your money.

29/04/2024

🏠A First Home Loan 🏠is specifically designed to make purchasing your first home more accessible with deposits from 5%, however I still hear buyers being told that you need 20% deposit....🤔

Deposits from 5% - First Home Loan Scheme. Help with your First Home Loan - Canterbury Home Loans, your First Home Buyer Specialist.