Buying guide

How your credit score can impact buying a house in New Zealand

What is a credit score, and why does it matter when you’re buying a house?

Hannah Hilliam
Last updated: 16 April 2025 | 5 min read

What you’ll learn:

Why your credit score matters

A good credit score matters most when you're seeking pre-approval for a home loan.

What is a good or bad credit score?

While each lender has its own criteria, here’s a general guide:

Credit scores range from 0 - 1000
Score RangeWhat It Means
700–1000700–1000Excellent – you're in great shape to apply for a mortgage.Excellent – you're in great shape to apply for a mortgage.
500–700500–700Average – you’ll probably be fine, as long as the other factors lenders look into appear okay.Average – you’ll probably be fine, as long as the other factors lenders look into appear okay.
300–500300–500Below average – you may face higher interest rates or be offered a smaller loan.Below average – you may face higher interest rates or be offered a smaller loan.
Below 300Below 300Poor – getting a home loan will be tough, but not impossible.Poor – getting a home loan will be tough, but not impossible.

How to check your credit score in New Zealand

What affects your credit score?

It's easy to find our your credit score in NZ.

Can you get a home loan with a bad credit score?

How to improve your credit score before buying a home

Author

Hannah Hilliam Hannah Hilliam