Unlock the Squirrel Effect — your key to smarter finance
At Squirrel, we believe property finance should do more than unlock capital — it should unlock progress.
We’re experts in construction lending, subdivision funding, and small-scale development finance. Whether you’re scaling up, de-risking a project, or moving quickly when opportunity knocks, we’re here to back you.
With real expertise, flexible funding, and a relationship-first approach, we help quality builders and developers create better homes — without the usual roadblocks.
What we fund
Squirrel’s funding solutions are designed to get your project moving — with fewer fees, less paperwork, and no unnecessary fuss.
What we fund:
- Small-scale developments
- Land development and subdivisions
- Pre-development funding
- Residual stock lending
- Business acquisition funding
Looking to fund turnkey or spec builds?
Head over here to learn more.
Why choose Squirrel
We fund house builds, small-scale developments, and a wide range of property projects.
As both a mortgage broker and a non-bank lender, we can access bank finance when it makes sense — or step in with our own funding when it doesn’t.
Product sections
End-to-end residential development finance
Smart developers know success comes down to making capital work harder and managing risk. With Squirrel on your team, you get fairer terms and more options to fund your project from start to finish.
Landbanking finance
The development lifecycle is long, and securing the right site early is critical. We can help you fund land acquisition ahead of construction, with flexible structures that work for your timeline.
In some cases, we can fund land with as little as a 10% cash deposit if you have resource consent and a valuation uplift.
Pre-development and acquisition funding
From due diligence and consenting through to site preparation, pre-development takes time and capital. We provide funding to cover these upfront costs and help you progress your project without unnecessary delays.
Bridging finance
Sometimes you need to close a funding gap to keep your project moving. Our bridging options give you access to capital when you need it — without being constrained by traditional bank criteria.
Construction loans and turnkey funding for builders
Access efficient, cost-effective funding designed specifically for builders — from standalone house builds to terraced housing and apartment projects.
Our team of experts is here to help.
Talk to our property finance managers about your project.
Plus all of our advisers work across a range of property development projects and are more than happy to discuss.
Download the research
Want to understand what buyers really value in new homes?
Our Better Builds for Buyers research shares insights to help developers design and deliver projects people love.
Building homes people love. Backed by smarter finance.
At Squirrel, we believe great developments start with a clear purpose — creating homes that buyers genuinely want to live in.
This short video shares the perspectives of builders and developers we’re proud to stand behind. From thoughtful design to the right funding at the right time, it’s all part of unlocking the Squirrel Effect: smarter finance, fewer roadblocks, and fairer access to capital.
So, what does the process look like?Here's the lowdown on how we'll work with you.
Here's the lowdown on how we'll work with you.
1. Get in touch
We'll have a chat where you'll give us an overview of your position and development plan.
2. We'll weigh up funding options
We'll get the best suited adviser to work with you on your funding strategy and plans, plus associated costs to complete the project.
3. We'll send you a proposal letter
This will outline the costs and the services we provide. At this point a 'commitment fee' is charged.
4. The fun begins
Once the proposal letter is signed, the project begins. And your adviser will be alongside you all the way.
Ready to start your project? Let's chat
New to property development and don't know where to start?
We've got a guide for that. Find out how to begin, what to consider along the way and how to set yourself up for success.
Our clients love what we do.
One of the best things you can do to minimise risk is make sure you’ve surrounded yourself with smart people who know what they’re doing and can guide you through the process.
At Squirrel, we’re brokers and property finance experts first and foremost—and we have a specialist team who live and breathe development funding every day.
David, Auckland
New Zealand
"Dealing with Squirrel has been a breath of fresh air. After a quick meeting to discuss, and the proposal approved straight away was outstanding. After dealing with others, we could not believe it was so simple and quick."