@Daniel DeSurra Each partnership obviously is structured different, however can describe what we have done. 

Additionally, you have many structures that could be applicable depending on the asset. 

For everyone else reading this, larger houses can cost less per sq ft to build and smaller can cost more, this is literally a ball park guess knowing nothing about the structure, finishes, etc. 

The deals are going to come along sporadically, of course, so I'm wondering how to structure the equity transactions so the cash is there when I need it.

BIG tickets items are really important though; foundation cracks, structural issues, bowed walls, or uneven flooring.

The financing structure The one with the most leverage is the structure.

And to reiterate other posters, if your wife is no longer a kiwi citizen you can't buy real estate here without some involved structuring.

Closing cost of around $ 25k-40k  along with inspections ( mechanical , plumbing , electrical , structural .

I want to structure it in such a way that we are paid back so that the loan balance can be reduced quickly.

You need to connect with a specialists for your entity structure.