Short answer
Prepare a clear picture of income, expenses, debts, deposit or equity, property, and unusual transactions. The goal is not to make your finances look perfect; it is to make the real story easy to verify and explain.
Worked example: Mereana's seasonal income pack
Mereana and Tama are saving for a home near whānau. Tama has PAYE income, while Mereana earns money from seasonal catering and market stalls. They prepare personal and business statements, tax records, a seasonal income summary, debt and credit-limit information, a deposit trail, and explanations for equipment and family-related transfers. The pack does not guarantee approval, but it gives the lender a complete starting point.
Deposit and equity evidence
Be ready to explain savings, KiwiSaver, gifts, sale proceeds, inheritance, or existing property equity. Keep the transfer trail and any gift or loan documentation. A large unexplained credit is not automatically a problem, but it usually needs context.
Income, expenses, and commitments
Prepare employment agreements, payslips, salary credits, tax records, business accounts, rental evidence, or contracts as relevant. List living costs, childcare, insurance, rates, support payments, personal loans, vehicle finance, student loans, credit-card limits, overdrafts, and buy now, pay later (BNPL) accounts.
Explain unusual transactions honestly
Write a short note for transfers, cash deposits, one-off purchases, tax payments, family support, business drawings, or temporary account changes. Do not relabel a debt or move transactions to make them harder to see. A clear explanation is more useful than a partial record.
Property information
Once you have a property in mind, collect the listing, title or sale information, insurance questions, body-corporate material, and valuation or building information available. A financial assessment does not replace property due diligence.
How can a broker help?
A broker may organise evidence, identify what needs explanation, and compare lender requirements on the panel. Ask which lenders are included or excluded, how the adviser is paid, which licensed financial advice provider they act for, and for disclosure information. Going directly to a bank can also be appropriate if you bring the complete picture.
Evidence categories to organise
- Identity and address
- Income evidence
- Statements and savings trail
- Deposit or equity documents
- Debt balances and limits
- Expense picture
- Business or rental evidence
- Explanations for unusual transactions
- Property information
This guide is general information only. MoreGage does not provide regulated financial advice, a lending assessment, approval, or an offer.