Non bank lending provides an alternative pathway for borrowers who don't fit standard bank criteria. This may include self-employed borrowers, those with non standard income, unique properties, or situations where traditional bank lending isn't the right fit.
This page explains how non bank lending works in New Zealand, when it may be appropriate, and how it can be used as part of a broader lending strategy.
These lenders assess applications differently. You might have a gifted deposit, run your own business, or be looking at a property that doesn't meet standard bank requirements. Non bank lenders can provide access to flexible mortgage options, even if your situation doesn't align with typical bank rules.
If your application has been declined by a bank, you can learn more about why this happens on our Bank Said No page.
A non bank lender is a licensed finance company.
If you want a deeper understanding of how non bank lending works in New Zealand, and when it might be the right solution for your situation, see our full guide to non bank lending.
Banks are highly regulated, deposit taking institutions with strict lending rules. Non banks are licensed finance companies that still follow New Zealand’s responsible lending laws, but they can assess applications on a case-by-case basis.
For a deeper comparison, see our Non Bank vs Bank Home Loans in NZ comparison.
More flexible criteria. Non bank lenders each set their own rules. Instead of rigid, blanket policies, they look at the full picture of your situation.
Key differences include:
Non bank lending is not just for borrowers declined by banks – it’s a popular solution for a wide range of situations. You might consider a non bank lender if you:
So, even if a bank says no, your home ownership journey doesn’t have to stop, so don’t panic. That’s exactly the scenario why our Bank Said No page was created – to explain why banks sometimes decline applications how non bank lending can help you move forward.
For self-employed borrowers, non bank lenders can assess income more flexibly. They consider less than 2 years financials, forecasts or alternative documents. See our guides for further detail:
Non bank lending is not only for people declined by banks – they’re often a smart choice for flexibility and speed. Clients choose non banks because:
We work with a wide range of non bank and specialist lenders to arrange:
We make the process as easy as possible, step by step so you always know what’s next:
Not sure if an alternative lender is right for you? Contact our non bank lending specialists today – we’ll map out your options, compare lenders and build your refinance plan back to a bank.
Non bank lenders assess risk differently. They can be more flexible on credit history, documentation, and income. They may charge higher rates and fees to reflect the higher risk.
Not always. It depends on the product and your profile. We’ll show you the deposit/LVR range available.
No. Many clients refinance back to a bank once their equity, credit, or income position improves. We plan for this from day one.
It varies, but non bank approvals can be quick once information is complete. We’ll give you realistic timeframes.
We avoid shotgun applications and only apply where approval is likely, protecting your credit score.
Often yes, if affordability stacks up. We’ll explain the pros and cons before you decide.
So there are a few different pathways to home ownership! Contact our non bank lending specialists today and we will help you find your solution.
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