Understanding Non-Bank Lenders: A Guide for First Home Buyers in New Zealand

Jan 20, 2025 8:30:00 AM

Buying your first home in New Zealand can be challenging. Rising house prices and strict lending rules make it hard to save a big enough deposit. Non-bank lenders offer a helpful alternative. They’re more flexible than banks and may work with buyers who have smaller deposits or credit issues. Here’s what you need to know about non-bank lenders in New Zealand.


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Topics: Home Loans

Preparing for the Unexpected: How to Get Your Affairs in Order

Jan 20, 2025 5:30:00 AM

Life may be unpredictable, but being prepared can make tough times easier for your loved ones. Organising important documents and sharing your wishes shows care and responsibility. It also helps ensure your plans are followed and reduces stress for your family. Here’s how to get started.


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Topics: Financial Health

Green Home Loans in New Zealand: Financing a Sustainable Future

Jan 20, 2025 12:00:00 AM

Climate change affects us all, and many New Zealand homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes eco-friendlier. Green home loans provide an affordable way to finance energy-efficient upgrades. Offering competitive rates and flexible terms, green home loans save you money and reduce your impact on the planet. Whether you’re building new or upgrading your home, green home loans can help cover up front costs.


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Topics: Home Loans

5 Simple Steps to Kickstart 2025 With a Financially Focused Mindset

Jan 19, 2025 9:21:11 PM

The new year is a great time to check your finances and set goals for a successful year ahead. Whether you’re buying your first home, managing a mortgage, or just trying to save more, starting with a clear plan can help you reach your goals. Here are five simple steps to get 2025 off to a strong financial start.


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Topics: Financial Health

Four Festive Favourites From the Mortgage Express Team

Dec 7, 2024 11:08:00 AM

The holiday season is here and it’s the perfect time to indulge in delicious treats and time-honoured traditions. To help you celebrate in style, we’ve gathered four of our favourite festive recipes, straight from the Mortgage Express team to your kitchen! These recipes are sure to bring a little extra cheer to your Christmas and New Year celebrations. So, dust off your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to whip up some holiday magic with these festive favourites!


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Topics: Health and Wellbeing

Understanding Property Valuations: A Homeowner’s Guide to Maximising Value

Dec 6, 2024 11:02:00 AM

When it comes to managing your biggest asset – your home – property valuations are an essential tool for buyers and sellers alike. Property valuations help determine the accurate value of a property and can provide valuable insights when renovating or refinancing. Find out all you need to know about property valuations, including how to arrange one and when it’s the right time to do so. Plus, we’ll share tips on how to add value to your home without overspending, to ensure your property investment works harder for you.


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Topics: Property Valuation

What Should You do if You Can’t Repay Your Mortgage

Dec 5, 2024 10:58:00 AM

Households across New Zealand are feeling the strain of higher living costs, with everyday expenses like mortgage repayments, rent, food and insurance becoming increasingly difficult to manage. For some, the risk of missing a mortgage repayment is a concern. If you’re struggling to stay on top of your mortgage, there are some steps you can take to ease the financial pressure and protect your home. Here are five practical tips to consider if you’re at risk of defaulting on your mortgage.


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Topics: Home Loans

Understanding Reverse Mortgages: How They Work and Who They’re For

Dec 4, 2024 10:54:47 AM

For retirees relying solely on NZ Superannuation, managing day-to-day expenses can be a real challenge. Unexpected costs often stretch budgets to the limit. A reverse mortgage could provide a financial lifeline to those nearing or entering retirement, unlocking equity in the home and freeing up extra cash when it’s needed most. However, before considering a reverse mortgage, it’s essential to understand how reverse mortgages work, along with their benefits and potential drawbacks.


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Topics: Retirement, Reverse Mortgages

Recharge Your Health and Wellbeing With a Digital Detox

Nov 13, 2024 3:56:32 PM

Our increasing reliance on screens may be impacting our health and wellbeing. The constant flow of notifications, emails and updates can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disrupt our sleep, and decrease attention span. Taking some time out to unplug, disconnect and reconnect with ourselves and those around us could be the best gift this holiday season. If you’re not sure where to start, here are some helpful tips to recharge your body and mind with a digital detox.


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Topics: Health and Wellbeing

KiwiSaver Tips For First Home Buyers: 3 Things to Know

Nov 13, 2024 10:32:00 AM

KiwiSaver is an easy way to save for the future and it can also help you buy a first home. By contributing a small percentage of your salary each month, and with help from your employer and the government, you can build up a significant savings fund. But achieving your financial goals takes more than just setting and forgetting. Actively managing your KiwiSaver is essential. Whether you’re buying a first home or planning a comfortable retirement, here are 3 important things to know that can help you make the most of your KiwiSaver.


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Topics: First Home Buyer