No Deposit, New Beginnings: Dunedin Families Invited to Step Into Homeownership
Applications are now open for Habitat for Humanity’s Homeownership Programme in Dunedin, offering a unique opportunity for first home buyers to achieve homeownership without the need for a deposit.
Six brand new, high-quality three-bedroom homes in Halfway Bush will provide local people who have dreams of owning their own home an opportunity to take an affordable step onto the property ladder.
Habitat CEO Conrad LaPointe says, “If you want to own a home or haven’t even thought about it before and can afford market rent, call us now. This is the best opportunity for working people to own their own home, bar none.”
“We know that some people believe there may be others more deserving of these types of opportunities through Habitat. The reality is that with this particular programme, we are seeking working people or families who just need that little bit of assistance to get onto that home ownership journey.”
For years, 33-year-old Geppina juggled rising rents, the instability of leases, and the emotional weight of not knowing when the next move might come. But thanks to Habitat for Humanity’s homeownership programme, she and her 9-year-old son now have a place to truly call their own.
“If you can afford market rent, you can afford to own your own home.” That’s the message single mother Geppina wants other families to hear loud and clear after achieving what many thought was out of reach - homeownership.
“I think my biggest reason for wanting to be a homeowner was so I can have something secure for my son,” Geppina shared. “Rent just disappears into thin air. I wanted something that would last - something I could pass on to him.”
Think this could be you? Check your eligibility today Habitat for Humanity • Rent-to-buy Homes in Dunedin
Habitat’s homeownership model bridges the gap between renting and owning, offering a stable and affordable pathway to ownership for those who might not meet strict bank criteria, but can clearly afford market rent.
The process begins with families applying and being interviewed before committing to the partnership. Once selected, they move into newly built homes with an agreed future
purchase price. Over the first five years, families pay an affordable rent, with contributions, helping to build their deposit.
Throughout this period, Habitat continues to provide ongoing support, recognising the realities of life’s challenges. At the end of five years, families are able to purchase their home using both their accumulated deposit and the equity they have gained during their time in the programme.
Trent and Karen moved into their Habitat home last year, and found it a transformative process, providing them with a new sense of independence and security.
“Owning our own home felt completely unattainable, a dream but now we are living that dream. I grew up with a single mum, so renting was always what we did. Now to know in 10 years my son will be going to school down the road, and he might learn how to drive while we’re still here. We have that security and stability now,” says Karen.
The Dunedin homes are aimed at first home buyers, particularly young couples or small families with a minimum household income of around $90,000 before tax, including any support. Applicants must be part of KiwiSaver and committed to progressing towards home ownership through Habitat for Humanity’s programme.
The Halfway Bush development features six new three-bedroom terraced townhouses designed for warm, modern living in a safe, family-friendly setting. Built with quality and sustainability in mind, the homes include high-standard finishes, strong thermal
efficiency, and covered outdoor spaces. Each property has its own parking, with a shared communal garden to support connection. Located opposite a school and reserve, the development offers a secure environment, including one fully accessible home designed for mobility needs.
Habitat for Humanity has supported hundreds of families into safe, affordable housing across Aotearoa.
Interested in seeing if you’re eligible for homeownership? Find out more on our website: Habitat for Humanity • Rent-to-buy Homes in Dunedin Or email our team to start the conversation: southern@habitat.org.nz
