You Find It, We Fund It: Why Smart Kiwi Businesses Are Turning to Used Equipment

I talk to business owners all over New Zealand every single day. From owner-drivers in the transport sector to contractors running earthmoving fleets, the story is often the same: “Roger, I need to expand to take on this new contract, but the price of brand-new gear is eye-watering.”

In the current economic climate, buying brand new isn't always the smartest play. While shiny new machinery is nice, it comes with a heavy depreciation hit the moment you turn the key.

That is why at Real Asset Finance, we are seeing a massive shift toward quality Used Equipment.

I wanted to take a moment to answer the questions I get asked most frequently when I pick up the phone. If you are sitting on the fence about buying pre-owned machinery, this is what you need to know.

1. "Roger, the truck is a bargain, but it needs a rebuild. Can you help?"

This is probably the biggest differentiator between us and the big banks. I often tell my clients: Don't walk away from a good deal just because it needs some work.

If you find a truck, an excavator, or a piece of manufacturing equipment th

at is solid but needs an engine overhaul or a refurbishment, we can make that work.

• How we do it: We can look at the quote for the repair and fund that alongside the equipment purchase in one go.

• The Goal: We want to extend the "economic life" of that asset. If investing in a rebuild gets you another 5–10 years of work out of the machine, it’s a smart investment, and we’ll back it.

2. "I need to move fast. How long does approval take?"

I know how the used market works. You’re at an auction, or you’re looking at a private listing online, and there are three other guys looking at the same machine. You don't have three weeks to wait for a committee decision.

In the vast majority of cases, we get deals funded within a day. We move at the speed of your business. If you are pre-approved, we can often sort it out same-day. My team and I are happy to meet you where you are—at your work, your home, or on-site where the equipment is sitting. We actually like to see what you’re buying first-hand.

3. "Isn't the interest rate higher on used gear?"

People often get hung up on the rate, but I always ask them to look at the Total Cost of Ownership. Yes, used equipment rates can be slightly different from new equipment rates, but the purchase price is significantly lower.

• The Strategy: By financing used, you are borrowing less principal. This often means lower total repayments and better cash flow for your business month-to-month.

4. "Why shouldn't I just pay cash?"

Cash is king, right? Exactly—which is why you should keep it. I always advise business owners to keep their cash reserves for operating costs, wages, and unexpected emergencies (like a sudden seasonal shift).

Don't bury your working capital in a piece of metal. Let the asset pay for itself. Our finance options allow you to spread the cost over a term that suits your budget, keeping your cash flow liquid for when you really need it.

5. "Does it have to be from a dealer?"

No. My philosophy is simple: You find it, we fund it. Whether you found the gear at a dealership, a private sale, or an auction house, we can handle the transaction. We are here to facilitate your growth, not dictate where you shop.

Let’s Get It Done

At Real Asset Finance, we aren't just a faceless application portal. We are a commercial broker that understands the industries we serve. We know that sometimes a 10-year-old machine with a rebuilt engine is a better earner than a brand-new one with a monthly payment that keeps you awake at night.

If you have your eye on something, give me a bell. Let’s look at the numbers and get you the gear you need to get the job done.