Underinsurance in New Zealand is becoming a concerning trend, with more Kiwis opting out of the financial protection of insurance due to perceived high costs. As cost-of-living pressures continue to impact budgets, many households are being forced to choose between everyday expenses, like food, rent or mortgage, and insurance cover, because of affordability. Even in these challenging financial conditions however, the importance of maintaining adequate insurance cover cannot be overstated.

End of financial year (EOFY) is an important time for all businesses, and property investors are no exception. Along with preparing financials and filing tax returns, EOFY offers property investors the opportunity to conduct a comprehensive financial review, evaluate investment performance, appraise and adjust rental rates, scrutinise essential expenses such as insurance, and set financial goals for the year ahead.

House prices are slowly rising but the national price index is still behind on the same time last year. Across all regions in New Zealand, new property listings are up to levels not seen since 2015. And Government policy changes impacting landlords, including the reinstatement of tax deductibility and changes to tenancy laws, could spur the market. As always, staying informed, adapting strategies, and getting professional mortgage advice are essential for navigating New Zealand’s dynamic property market.

In the busyness of daily life, it's easy to adopt a "set and forget" mentality when it comes to finances. And that includes the mortgage, often fading into the background once it’s in place, ignored for the duration of the loan term. But did you know that regularly reviewing your home loan can unlock a wealth of benefits? From saving money to shortening your loan term to accessing your equity, a mortgage review is an essential part of home ownership.

Maintaining your home may seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Keeping on top of the smaller tasks helps ensure your home is well-prepared to handle the changing weather and prevent expensive repairs in the future. From safeguarding against chilly drafts to preventing potential hazards, prioritising these autumn home maintenance tips will ensure your home remains safe, comfortable, and cosy throughout the cooler months.

As climate change continues to alter our planet's landscape, New Zealanders are increasingly facing the physical and financial risks associated with extreme weather events. From the devastating impact on homes, cars, and personal property to the potential knock-on effect of higher insurance premiums, the repercussions of climate change are becoming more apparent than ever. As a homeowner, it’s crucial to understand how climate change can affect your insurance coverage and what proactive steps you can take to mitigate these risks.

Are you dreaming of a mortgage-free future, but not sure where to start or what you should do to get there? Being mortgage-free may seem like a distant dream, but paying off your mortgage early is not only achievable, it’s also a smart financial move that could save you thousands of dollars in interest. Read on as we explore five practical strategies to help you accelerate your mortgage repayment journey and achieve your mortgage-free dreams.

Kiwis considering buying a home or investing in property in New Zealand will be closely monitoring the Reserve Bank of New Zealand’s (RBNZ) proposal to introduce debt-to-income (DTI) restrictions. If introduced, DTIs would limit the amount of debt households can take on and cap mortgage lending against a borrower’s income. With the high cost of New Zealand housing, DTIs could effectively slow down the property market and make it harder for average earners to secure a mortgage.

Success in the any industry is often measured in milestones, and for Sue Clydesdale, Mortgage Adviser - Mortgage Express, reaching the $1 billion career settled sales mark is a testament to a lifetime dedicated to the art of the deal and the power of enduring personal relationships.

From the thriving community of Christchurch to the bustling halls of Grenadier Real Estate, where Sue has been a steadfast presence throughout her career, her journey is one of resilience through natural disasters, economic trials, and the changing tides of the real estate market.

Buying a home in New Zealand takes careful financial planning, especially when it comes to budgeting. A clear understanding of financial situation is crucial for first home buyers who face challenges such as high prices, tough competition, and strict lending rules. Whether you’re already preparing to enter the property market or just starting your journey to home ownership, here are 3 essential budgeting tips to help transform your financial goals into reality.