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Is 2025 the Right Time to Build a Home in New Zealand?

If you’ve been sitting on the fence about building a home, 2025 might just be your year. There’s a lot happening in the property market right now that makes the idea of getting into a new home – or expanding your property portfolio – more appealing than it has been in quite some time. Let’s break it down.
  • Interest rates are dropping – Good news for borrowers! The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has started easing the Official Cash Rate (OCR), which means mortgage interest rates are following suit. Lower rates make home loans more affordable, and that means smaller monthly repayments. For both first-home buyers and investors, this shift creates a rare opportunity to secure property with better financial flexibility.

  • The market has calmed down – Remember the chaos of the last couple of years? Skyrocketing prices, intense competition, and properties selling before they even hit the listings? That frenzy has settled. The market in 2025 is far more balanced, making it easier to find a property without feeling rushed or overpaying. Buyers now have more room to negotiate, and sellers are open to fair offers, which is a win-win all around.

  • House prices set to rise – Here’s the kicker, experts are predicting a rebound in house prices. Westpac, for example, expects an 8% rise through the year, while ANZ is forecasting a 6% bump. Why? It’s a combination of lower interest rates and renewed consumer confidence. For buyers, taking prompt action and acting sooner rather than later could help you lock in a property before prices climb higher.

  • The economy is on the up – As the broader economy gradually stabilises, we’re seeing positive signs across the board. Employment rates are projected to strengthen, and household incomes are expected to follow. This creates a healthier property market where people feel more confident about making long-term investments.

shaking hands after a house purchase

So, should you buy now?

While the final decision always depends on personal circumstances, the signals so far from the 2025 market are pretty clear: lower interest rates, stabilising prices, and positive price forecasts make this a promising time to build. If you’ve been thinking about making a move, the conditions are lining up in your favour.
 
Ready to take the next step? Whether you’re planning to build your next home or invest in a rental property, 2025 could be your window of opportunity. Green Homes can help you to find the perfect Home & Land package, or assist with finding a section for your design and build project. Get in touch with our team to chat more about your future today!