The way New Zealanders approach buying and selling property is shifting. Younger generations are embracing new ways to enter the market, from co-ownership to digital platforms and apartment living. Yet, despite the rise of online tools, most Kiwis still value working with real estate professionals, according to a new LJ Hooker study.
The research highlights how Kiwis are balancing affordability challenges with innovative solutions, while also reaffirming the importance of expert guidance in real estate transactions.
Kiwis still see value in real estate agents
While platforms like Facebook Marketplace and online property portals have made private sales easier, most New Zealanders still prefer to work with an agent. The study found that only 23 percent of Kiwis have considered selling their home privately, though younger generations are more open to the idea—with 44 percent of Gen Z willing to go it alone.
LJ Hooker Head of Network NZ, Campbell Dunoon, says many sellers quickly realise the challenges of handling a property sale without expert guidance.
“It becomes clear that selling a home is far more complex than selling an old coffee table online. With fluctuating market conditions, competing offers, and strict regulations, working with a real estate agent helps remove stress and ensures sellers get the best outcome,” he said.
When choosing an agent, Kiwis prioritise commission rates (61 percent), local expertise (54 percent), and customer service (46 percent).
Co-ownership and apartment living on the rise
With standalone homes becoming less affordable in major cities, younger buyers are rethinking traditional homeownership.
- 45 percent of Gen Z and 40 percent of Gen Y would consider co-owning a home with a friend or sibling, compared to just 22 percent of Baby Boomers.
- 40 percent of New Zealanders are open to apartment living, with younger buyers leading this trend (48 percent of Gen Z vs. 37 percent of Gen X).
“Kiwis still see property ownership as a key path to financial security, but affordability challenges mean more people are exploring options like co-ownership or apartment living,” Dunoon said.
For those considering co-ownership, he advises a structured approach: “If you’re buying with a friend or family member, ensure you have a formal agreement outlining each party’s responsibilities and an exit strategy in case circumstances change.”
Parents continue to play a key role in homeownership
Despite the availability of KiwiSaver, many young buyers still rely on financial support from family to secure a home deposit.
- 31 percent of homebuyers have parents open to providing financial assistance.
- Parental support is even more common among younger generations.
- 89 percent of parents say they are open to helping their children enter the property market.
“Parents who have built wealth through homeownership understand its long-term benefits,” Dunoon said.
“Many are eager to support their children in achieving the same goal, even though the path to homeownership has changed over the years.”
A changing market with new opportunities
As the property market evolves, younger generations are finding new ways to get onto the ladder. Whether through co-ownership, apartment living, or financial support from family, Kiwis are adapting to meet the challenges of homeownership.
At the same time, the role of real estate professionals remains strong, with most sellers recognising the benefits of expert guidance in navigating an ever-changing market.
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