The couple living apart, to thrive together
Couple Paula and Gordon met at work, and though they love and are committed to each other, they don’t want to live together.
“We were both quite nervous about telling each other, I like you but I don’t want to live with you,” said Paula. “We are quite independent people. We are super similar in many things but super different in the key things that brings people living together.”
In fact, the couple agree that living apart keeps the love alive and fresh. “Living apart does work for us. [It allows us to] respect each other’s quirkiness, personalities and spaces,” Paula adds.
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Paula and Gordon worked with Kiwibank Banking Specialist, Normita Beeching. Get Normita's tips and insights on the home ownership journey.
Until now, Paula has rented in Wellington, while Gordon has lived in his own house six minutes’ drive away. Paula was unsure if she would ever be able to purchase a property alone, so Gordon has offered a generous sum towards a deposit, together with Paula’s KiwiSaver contribution.
After much discussion, external advice and thought, Gordon offered his contribution as a gift – rather than a loan that must be repaid. As he puts it, “This is my opportunity to say I love you and let’s make life easier.”
The house title will be in Paula’s name alone, and she will be responsible for household costs and mortgage repayments.
We sat and had different conversations and a gift [of funds towards a deposit] seems to be a better option for us. I’ve heard of the loan option too, but this isn’t a loan. It’s literally a gift to help both of us grow while maintaining our independence.Gordon, on gifting funds towards Paula’s house deposit
As part of their journey, the couple met with Banking Specialist Normita Beeching to understand the best way to structure the loan based on Paula’s financial situation.
“Having the conversation with the Kiwibank specialist really helped me to grasp the idea of what is involved with having a mortgage,” said Paula following their meeting.
Paula found that having a home loan specialist on her team reassured her that she was on the right track and that there was someone she could talk to if her circumstances were to change in the future.
Watch Paula and Gordon's story: On the Ladder with Kiwibank is available on ThreeNow.
On the Ladder with Kiwibank is produced in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery.
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