We’re pleased to announce a new partnership between Professionals Group New Zealand and New Zealand Home Loans (NZHL) - a relationship designed to give buyers and sellers greater financial clarity and confidence in today’s fast-moving property market.
As part of this partnership, the NZHL mortgage calculator will appear on every Professionals listing page across our website. Anyone browsing a property can instantly estimate repayment amounts based on their preferred loan structure. It’s a simple tool that helps buyers get financially ready before they start making decisions - and in this market, being prepared is everything.
Sorting your finances early is essential. Working through your mortgage options and finances can seem like a lot to manage, but getting NZHL on your side is an ideal first step. NZHL offer a personalised approach with tailored smart home loan plans, ongoing coaching and personalised advice. DebtNav, their unique online debt monitoring tool that puts you in control with the ability to monitor your progress, and factor in shorter-term goals and how they will impact your mortgage. By listening to your goals and providing regular reviews, NZHL advisers can help you stay on track. The result? A tailored mortgage plan that makes the most of your money and supports your goals, without putting life on hold.
With that in mind, and reflecting on the 2025, here are our CEO Shaun Taylor’s top five predictions for 2026 in relation to the property market and what they mean for buyers, sellers, and investors.
- Mortgage Rates are as low as they will go
Rates have eased throughout 2025, and the major indicators - OCR trajectory, bank funding costs, and inflation data - suggest we are at or nearing the bottom of this cycle and rates will stay this way for some time. We may see small fluctuations, but the days of steep rises are behind us for now. The Reserve Bank doesn't expect to increase the Official Cash Rate (OCR) until 2027.
Implication: Buyer confidence will keep improving, and fixed-rate certainty will return, boosting activity across most regions.
- The Economy will improve
After a challenging two-year period, stabilisation is finally in here and the key economic indicators are starting to correct and improve. Employment trends, household spending, and business sentiment are all moving toward "green shoots" territory.
Implication: When the economy steadies, so does housing demand. 2026 should feel more “normal” for both buyers and sellers - something the market has been waiting for.
- Property Values Remain Stable - E-valuation Tools Are a Good Guide
Most economists point to a stabilising of property values through 2026, i.e. not much change. Some areas will see gentle growth through 2026 while others such as Auckland may hold flat. In our largest city, the large number of recently built terraced homes on the market could cause variations in the local market with stand alone homes becoming more in demand as the market picks up while terraced home's values will remain fairly stable. This is a phase where realistic pricing and data matter; Shaun suggests using online valuation tools as a reliable guide to current value ranges for properties across New Zealand. "For homes that haven't had any significant improvements made to them, e-valuation tools can provide an accurate guide to their current market value. It's a great place to start before talking to an agent." says Shaun.
Implication: Sellers who understand their market and price correctly will transact faster.
- The Election Factor - Selling in the first half of 2026 is smart
Elections in New Zealand almost always influence buyer behaviour. Historically, the months before an election and any period of time following one to confirm a Government see more uncertainty and slower decision-making. This can often be followed by a post-election surge once direction is clear, but at times this can run directly into the Christmas slowdown, extending a period of low activity.
Implication: If you’re considering selling in 2026 the first half of the year could be the time with reduced political noise, stable conditions, and motivated buyers.
- There Has Never Been a Better Time to Speak With a Real Estate Professional
With the market shifting from stable to growth, the guidance of an experienced agent is more valuable than ever. From pricing strategy to negotiation, campaign design, and buyer targeting, the right professional will help you make sense of a complex market and secure the best possible outcome for you and your family.
Implication: If you are thinking of selling, or just planning ahead, now is the time to book in the conversation.
Final Thoughts
Shaun's final take on what to expect next year is positive. "The outlook for 2026 is considerably more positive than the past few years. Low interest rates, improving economic signals, and clearer market data all point toward a more confident and predictable market to buy and sell homes. We are currently seeing buyer activity we haven't seen for a while and we will hit the ground running from January. Book in an appraisal from one of our amazing team members for when you get back from your summer break before you go."
The launch of the NZHL mortgage calculator on every listing, and access to our e-valuation tool demonstrates how we are making it even easier for buyers to step into the market fully informed and financially prepared. If you’re thinking about your next move, talk to your local Professionals team today - there’s never been a better time.
