Most homeowners tend to set their home loan structure and then forget about it. They fix their rates for a set period of time and take comfort in knowing how much to budget for their mortgage each month. However, interest rates change, and while it may seem easier to simply set and forget, in the long-run it could be costing you several thousands of dollars more in interest charges, simply because you haven’t refinanced. Here are 3 instances when it pays to refinance your mortgage.

With interests rates at an all-time low, the cost of servicing a mortgage has never been lower. However, rising house prices mean deposit requirements have never been higher, and therein lies the big problem for many first home buyers. For those with parents or family members who may be able to help with a deposit for a first home, here are some of the options and the key things to look out for.

Mortgage Express branded mortgage advisers are often asked the question, “Is it better to work with a mortgage adviser or go direct to my bank?” And because we know your home is quite likely your single largest purchase – and certainly your biggest financial commitment – we believe that working with a mortgage adviser may provide you with options when it comes to finding the right home loan. Here are some of the benefits to using a mortgage adviser instead of going direct to your bank.

Nearing retirement age often leads to a mindshift in our view of property investment. The closer we get, the less appetite for risk we typically have, and the more cautious we become about ensuring our retirement savings go the distance. So, what are the main risks retirees need to consider when reassessing their property investment strategy? And what could they do to minimize risk and ensure they plan ahead for longevity?

Saving a big enough deposit to buy a first home is tough, especially when house prices rise faster than you can save. The reality is it can take several years to accumulate enough of a deposit to buy a first home. Some first home buyers have found ways to get in early – with a family guarantee or a loan from family members – but for others it’s going to take some serious saving. If you are just starting out with dreams of a first home in the years ahead, here are some ways you can start saving for a first home deposit.

Housing affordability continues to be a hot topic at the forefront of our minds, as rising house prices continue unabated across most parts of New Zealand. While many first home buyers typically buy property with a partner, spouse or family member, it’s unfair to assume that all first home buyers will do the same. Single income borrowers are not uncommon in New Zealand’s property market, so we asked the question, is it still possible to buy a home on one income?

In an effort to put the brakes on a runaway property market, from 1 May 2021, the Reserve Bank of New Zealand has implemented Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) restrictions that impact the way property investors access mortgage finance. Going forward, a maximum of just 5 per cent of banks’ lending can be done at above 60 per cent LVR. For property investors, that means having at least a 30 – 40 per cent deposit. Here are 3 tips that could help property investors navigate high LVRs.

As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, it’s time to think about getting your home winter-ready. Keeping your home healthy and warm during the colder months takes careful preparation, and Autumn is a great time to get stuck into those preparations to ensure your home is fit for purpose ahead of the challenging winter months. Here are 5 tips to help you prepare your home for winter.

Interest rates have hit record lows over the past year, but an improving economy is likely to put pressure on interest rates rising sooner than expected. Locking in a fixed home loan rate could be the answer for borrowers seeking certainty for a fixed term. As always though, the best solution depends on borrower’s own circumstances and it’s advisable to seek advice from a mortgage adviser before making any interest rate decisions. If you are considering fixing your home loan rate, here are 5 questions to ask.

Property auctions can be a good way to buy your next home or investment property, provided you know what you’re doing. Unlike a private sale where buyers can add conditions to a contract – like a finance or building inspection condition – when it comes to buying property at auctions, buyers have to do their due diligence before they even bid. If you are planning to bid at an auction, it’s important you’re prepared. Check out these 5 tips to get auction ready.