Investment property loans
Whether it’s your first rental or your fifth, the way your lending is structured matters as much as the rate. We help investors borrow in a way that keeps options open for the future.
Investment property lending has different rules from buying a home to live in, including higher deposit requirements and different lender policies. Many investors use equity in their home or existing properties towards the deposit. Getting the structure right from the start, including how loans are secured and split, makes it easier to grow a portfolio later.
Reviewed by the Moneyplant mortgage advice team, Papakura · Updated September 2026
How we help
- Work out your buying power: using equity, rental income and your wider finances.
- Structure it well: so one property doesn’t unnecessarily tie up another.
- Compare lenders: including non-bank lenders when bank policy doesn’t fit.
- Work alongside your accountant: on the tax side, which they should advise on.
Using equity to buy
If your home or another property has grown in value, or you’ve paid down your mortgage, you may be able to borrow against that equity to fund your next deposit. How that’s set up, and which property secures which loan, affects your flexibility if you later want to sell or refinance.
Deposits and lending rules
Lenders usually need a larger deposit for an investment property than for a home you live in, and the Reserve Bank sets limits that affect how much banks can lend. New builds can be treated differently. Rules change from time to time, so we’ll check what applies to you when you’re ready to buy.
Tax and ownership
Rental property comes with tax rules, such as how interest costs are treated and the bright-line test when you sell. How you own the property, whether personally, jointly or through a company or trust, also matters. These are questions for your accountant or lawyer, and we’re happy to work alongside them.
This is general information only and isn’t personalised financial advice. Everyone’s situation is different, so please talk to one of our advisers before making decisions about your lending.
Investment property questions
Can’t see your question? Give us a call or send us a message. See our public disclosure for details of our fees and commissions.
How much deposit do I need for an investment property?
Usually more than for a home you live in. The exact amount depends on the lender, the property and current Reserve Bank settings, and new builds can have different rules.
Can I use the equity in my home?
Often, yes. If your home is worth more than you owe, you may be able to borrow against that equity for your next deposit. We’ll help you structure it so your home isn’t tied up more than it needs to be.
Do lenders count rental income?
Yes, but usually not all of it. Lenders typically count a portion of expected rent to allow for vacancies and costs, and test whether you could still afford the loan if rates rose.
Do you work with non-bank lenders?
Yes. Our lender panel includes banks and non-bank lenders, which can help when a bank’s policy doesn’t fit your situation.
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