Buying a Home? Take a Breath — You’ve Got This 🏡✨

Matt from Matt Wineera - Thats Real Estate with Matt Wineera

If you’ve started doing a bit of research online, chances are you’ve come across this line: 
“Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make.”
It’s everywhere. And while it is true, it can also feel a bit... overwhelming. Like, no pressure, right?
But here’s the thing — yes, buying a home is a significant financial decision, but it’s also so much more than just numbers. You’re not just investing in property — you’re choosing a space to live your life, to create memories, to feel safe and settled. This is about building your future, not just your portfolio.
Feeling a little panicky is totally normal — but there are some simple steps that can help you move forward with confidence:
✨ Learn as much as you can about the process

✨ Get yourself prepared ahead of time

✨ Take it one step at a time — in the right order
And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone. A knowledgeable, local real estate agent (👋 hello!) can walk beside you from start to finish, helping you make sense of everything and keeping it all on track.
This is your journey — let’s make it a good one. 🏠💛

✅ Step 1: Financial Foundations
• Check your credit score
• Fix any issues on your credit report
• Start saving for:
o Deposit (usually 10–20% of the purchase price)
o Additional costs:
* LIM Report
* Builders Report
* Registered Valuation
* Lawyer’s fees
* Moving costs
• Talk to your bank and a mortgage broker
• Apply for mortgage preapproval from multiple lenders
• Compare interest rates, terms, and loan features

✅ Step 2: Define Your Dream Home
• Set your budget based on preapproval
• Choose your preferred Tauranga suburbs (e.g., Bethlehem, Papamoa, The Lakes, Otumoetai, Mt Maunganui etc)
• Create a list of:
o Must-haves (e.g. 3 bedrooms, double garage, close to schools)
o Nice-to-haves (e.g. sea view, home office, big backyard)
• Prioritise your list
• Share your wishlist with your real estate agent

✅ Step 3: Choose the Right Agent
• Talk to at least two or three local agents
• Ask about their experience in your target areas
• Pay attention to:
o Communication style
o Local knowledge
o Whether they listen to your needs
o If you feel comfortable with them

✅ Step 4: Get Informed
• Ask your agent for blank copies of the forms you’ll be signing
• Learn the process of:
o Making an offer
o Conditional vs. unconditional contracts
o Settlement day
• Ask questions about anything you don’t understand
• Keep your paperwork organised

✅ Extra Tips
• Stay flexible- perfect homes rarely exist, but the right one will feel right
• Keep emotions in check during negotiations
• Don’t skip due diligence—even if the home looks great
• Celebrate each step—you’re making progress!

For more info contact me for no obligation advice.