Young Couple Proves Homeownership Is Possible Despite Initial Doubts

That Home Loan Hub

Stepping onto the property ladder feels impossible for many young New Zealanders, but Ryan Bilby's journey proves otherwise. A bakery manager at Ben's Buns in Paraparaumu Beach, Ryan recently purchased his first home with partner Crystal despite believing they weren't financially ready.
With an 18% deposit, concerns about past credit issues, and no substantial parental support, Ryan initially dismissed homeownership as unattainable. The turning point came when rental costs kept climbing and finding pet-friendly accommodation became increasingly difficult. Their leap of faith revealed surprising truths – Ryan's credit history was better than expected, their deposit was competitive, and their debt-free status positioned them well with lenders.
The house-hunting process proved eye-opening. Ryan and Crystal viewed approximately 30 properties, often competing with dozens of other potential buyers at open homes. They navigated the disappointment of withdrawing an offer after a building inspection revealed asbestos and roofing issues, teaching them valuable lessons about patience and due diligence. Ryan shares golden advice for fellow first-home seekers, particularly about keeping your maximum budget confidential from eager real estate agents.
Most encouraging is Ryan's revelation that homeownership hasn't ended their ability to enjoy life. While they're saving at a slower rate than before, they still maintain lifestyle pleasures like weekend getaways while building equity in their property. Already planning their next steps on the property ladder, they're strategically paying down their mortgage with future investments in mind.
Ready to discover whether homeownership might be closer than you think? Ryan's parting wisdom is refreshingly simple: "Get out there, get saving, and get it done. Get on the ladder." His journey from doubt to doorstep might just be the inspiration you need to start your own.

Send us a text

Support the show

Buy your first home in NZ Weekly Webinars

You thought it's not possible or the dream is too far away? Come to my webinar and I will show you, you are much closer to your dream, than you think you are!

Join Here - https://bit.ly/4m9SL72

Chapters

1. Meet Ryan: From Bakery to Buyer (00:00:00)

2. Challenging Assumptions: 18% Deposit Journey (00:03:44)

3. Application Process and House Hunting (00:05:54)

4. Open Home Realities and Deal-Breakers (00:10:48)

5. Getting Unconditional and Future Plans (00:13:40)

6. Life After Purchase: Budgeting Success (00:17:22)