Two Ways to Own a House Together
When you buy a house with someone else in NZ — a partner, spouse, or friend — you need to choose how the title is held. The two options are joint tenants and tenants in common, and the choice affects what happens to your share of the property if a relationship ends or one owner dies.
Joint Tenants
Tenants in Common
Joint tenancy is common for married or de facto couples who want simplicity, but it can unintentionally exclude children from a previous relationship — tenancy in common lets you leave your share to whoever you choose.
Before You Buy Together
Talk about unequal contributions
If one of you is putting in more deposit, tenants in common with unequal shares can reflect that.
Consider a property sharing agreement
Especially for unmarried buyers, a written agreement can set out what happens if the relationship ends.
Think about your will
If you're tenants in common, make sure your will reflects who should inherit your share.
Get legal advice before you sign
Your lawyer can explain how each structure applies to your specific situation before the agreement is finalised.
Quick Summary
- Joint tenants: equal, undivided ownership with automatic survivorship.
- Tenants in common: separate shares that pass through your estate/will.
- Get advice early — the right structure depends on your relationship and family situation.