Planning for your first step on the property ladder?
One of the big drawcards of KiwiSaver for many people is its ability to help you into a first home. When you’ve been in the scheme for at least three years, you can withdraw your savings to put the money towards a property. If you meet income and house price caps, you may also qualify for a Government subsidy on top of that. You must plan to live in the property yourself.
KiwiSaver can be a great way to save for a first home because your employer adds to your balance with their contributions, amplifying the amount you can put aside each year. If you put aside 10 per cent of what you earn, you could get to your goal quite quickly.
The only things to watch out for, though, are that a first-home withdrawal will deplete your retirement savings. The money you invest early in your life pays extra dividends because the returns have the opportunity to compound upon themselves, year after year. If you withdraw all your money and start again at 30 or 35, you take away a significant portion of your final retirement savings nest egg.
Like to know more about how KiwiSaver could help you into your first home? We welcome you to get in touch with and Insurance Link adviser today.