Unplanned home buying on the rise as emotions drive decisions

A surprising 24% of New Zealanders have bought a house “by accident” at some point – and 8% of those purchases happened in the past year, according to realestate.co.nz. 

Those impulse buyers didn’t plan to purchase when they began their search but found a property they liked and decided to make an offer.

Men account for 66% of these accidental purchases, while women make up 34%. The average age of an accidental buyer is 30.2 years – younger than the typical first home buyer. These buyers also have strong financial footing, with recent purchasers earning 54% more than the average New Zealander. That suggests higher income levels may give some buyers the flexibility to make spontaneous decisions.

Auckland leads the impulse buys

More than half of recent accidental purchases occurred in Auckland – far above the city’s share of the population. This could reflect both the variety of properties on offer and the financial confidence of many Auckland buyers.

What drives accidental purchases?

Realestate.co.nz spokesperson Vanessa Williams said open homes and property browsing have become “almost a national pastime”. People often attend open homes just to get ideas or see what’s out there – but can fall in love with a home’s layout, location or potential, she said. That emotional response sometimes turns browsing into buying.

Ms Williams added that accidental purchases are now at their highest level since April 2022, with more Kiwis feeling confident about their ability to buy.

What this means for you

If you’re casually browsing homes, you may find yourself making an offer sooner than expected. That can work in your favour – if you’re prepared. Whether you’re planning to buy or just open to the idea, it pays to be financially ready and clear on your goals.

That's why I'd encourage you to get in touch if you’d like support preparing your finances, clarifying your home‑buying goals or making sure any purchase – planned or accidental – works in your favour.