Looking to start or grow your property portfolio? We can help. Learn more about buying an investment property in New Zealand.
Property investment made simple
Buying an investment property is a great way to build your future wealth. Like any investment, it’s important to do your research and know what you want to achieve. This can help you avoid stress and save money in the long run. We're here to help simplify the property investment process so you understand your options and can make a smart, informed decision.
The investment lending process
Get pre-approved
Getting pre-approval before you start looking helps you know what you can afford - so you can focus on properties within your budget.
Most investment loans need a 30% deposit, which can come from cash savings or equity in your current home or another property you own.
How to get pre-approved
You can either:
- Complete our online home loan application form, or
- Contact one of our lending specialists, who can help you through this process.
If you're borrowing in the name of a company or a trust, or if any of the applicants are a guarantor, you'll need to talk to one of our lending specialists.
See our 'How to apply' section below to learn what information you'll need for your application.
Find your investment property
Once you've got your finances sorted, you can start looking for the perfect property. You might want to consider things like rent potential, location (e.g. closeness to schools, public transport and shops), and the condition the property is in - especially if you think you'll need to do maintenance.
Talk to your lawyer before making an offer and include any conditions that give you time to do your due diligence.
Structure your loan
You've found your investment property, so it's time to confirm your loan! We'll help you tailor your loan to suit your lifestyle. This might mean a fixed or floating rate, or a mix of both.
Go unconditional
Once all conditions are met, your offer becomes unconditional, and your investment property is nearly yours.
Things to think about
Bright-line test
The bright-line test applies if you buy and sell a home within a certain number of years. If it's not your main home, the profit you make from the sale is treated like income and you may need to pay tax on it.
Get building and landlord insurance
We've got you covered. We partner with Tower for general insurance like home, contents and car insurance - including landlord insurance products to help give you peace of mind when renting out your property.
Property management
Consider using a property manager, especially if the property is in a different region.
How to apply for an investment property loan
When you're ready to apply for your investment property loan, make sure you have all your personal and financial details handy and set aside about 30 minutes to complete your application. See our checklist below for the documents you'll need to provide.
What you'll need to apply:
When you apply for an investment property loan, you'll need to fill out a statement of financial position. This gives us a snapshot of your current financial situation — including your income, savings, expenses, and debts — so we can work out how much you can borrow.
Tip: Make sure the details in your statement of financial position match the bank statements you provide.
You'll also need to send us:
1. Proof of income
The three most recent pay slips for each person applying, to help us confirm how much you earn. If you’re self-employed, you’ll need to send your last two years of financial reports, or if you’re a contractor, you’ll need to send your last two years of individual income tax returns (IR3).
2. Bank statements
- Your main transactional accounts (unless they're with TSB). This might be your transactional everyday account or your credit card.
- Accounts where your income is deposited (if this is different to your main transactional accounts).
3. Loan balances
If you’re responsible for any loans in the name of a company or trust, you’ll need to provide the most recent statement – this includes any personal loans, car loans, or other finance.
Note: All statements must be PDF statements downloaded from online banking or provided by your bank (we’re not able to accept scans, paper copies, or any other file types).
Having all these documents ready will help speed up your application and make the process much smoother.
Once you've submitted your application, one of our lending specialists will contact you within three business days to discuss your application and next steps.
If you’re unsure about any of these steps, we’re here to help — just get in touch.
Take the next step that suits you
Looking for help?
Talk to a home loan specialist
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to apply, we’re here to help you with your home loan. You can chat with one of our lending specialists on 0800 231 232, Monday to Friday, 8:30am–5pm. They’ll answer your questions, help explore your options, and guide you through the home loan process.
Need help outside of these times? Our Mobile Mortgage Managers can come to you, or you can chat to them over the phone or a video call - so you can get help when it works best for you.
Important information
General Lending Terms and Conditions:
- An Early Repayment fee may apply on fixed rate loans.
- All interest rates are subject to change.
- Lending criteria, terms and conditions and fees apply.
- When you bank with TSB you agree to our General Terms.