For most first home buyers, the biggest hurdle is saving the 20 per cent deposit that many lenders require. Trying to keep up with rising house prices while saving a big enough deposit can feel impossible! If you’ve already started saving but you’re not quite there yet, there are other deposit options available to first home buyers that could make owning a first home a reality much sooner.

Most homeowners long for the day when they’ll be mortgage-free. But that can feel a bit like a distant dream with no clear path to get there. Depending on your loan term, you could be paying back your mortgage until well past your retirement age, potentially never fully “owning” your home. If the thought of being mortgage-free appeals to you, here are 5 ways you could pay off your mortgage faster.

Lockdown in New Zealand sparked a flurry of people enquiring about writing their Will*. But it’s not just in a pandemic when an important legal Will needs serious consideration. While most people prefer not to think too much about what will happen when they pass, without a Will, your assets may be distributed according to the law of New Zealand (the Administration Act 1969), which may not be in line with your wishes. Take a look at these 5 things to consider when writing a Will.

The New Zealand property market is booming, despite economists’ doom-and-gloom predictions earlier this year. Historically low interest rates, the removal of loan-to-value restrictions, and more New Zealanders returning home from overseas because of COVID-19 has seen a growing number of first home buyers entering the market. If you’re considering applying for a mortgage at this time, here are some things you can do to prepare yourself.

COVID-19 has impacted not only the way we work, go to school or socialize; for many, it’s had a significant financial impact too. Job loss or reduced hours has meant more people have to rely on credit or even miss repayments on financial commitments due to financial strain. While your health and wellbeing are understandably top of mind right now, it’s just as important you keep your credit score in the best possible shape. Here’s why.

Over the last month, some of New Zealand’s biggest companies have been hit by cyber-attacks. Among those targeted were the New Zealand Stock Exchange, MetService, Westpac and several large media companies. The recent spate of cyber-attacks has been attributed to a growing shift in companies working remotely because of COVID-19, and is a timely reminder of the importance of cyber-safety for anyone accessing online services.

Home loan interest rates have fallen to historic lows in 2020 and economists are predicting even lower mortgage interest rates in the months ahead in response to the economic fall-out from COVID-19. Lower interest rates mean more opportunities for both homeowners and first home buyers looking to enter the market, with more affordable repayments and the potential to get debt-free faster. If you haven’t reviewed your mortgage in a while, now’s a good time to do that.

If you’re looking to invest your money right now, you can’t beat the returns on property. With the OCR expected to remain at 0.25 per cent, at least for the foreseeable future, historically low interest rates, and no restrictions on the amount of money banks can lend to high-LVR borrowers, many economists believe real estate is the *best investment option in the current climate. Follow these handy tips to secure your financial future by investing in property.

If you’re feeling an extra spring in your step, you’re not alone! Scientists tell us that the start of spring can radically improve your mood and that those longer, warmer, sunnier days – with a promise of summer – bring an extra bit of cheer, and a feeling of happiness and hopefulness to most of us. Not convinced? Take a look at these scientific reasons* why springtime brings a little bit of happiness.

Banks in New Zealand have already deferred mortgage repayments up to a staggering $21 billion dollars since New Zealand first went into lockdown in March 2020*. Now the Reserve Bank of New Zealand says it’s extending the mortgage deferral scheme up to March 31, 2021*. But it comes with a warning: Do your homework first. Read on to find out if a mortgage holiday is the right option for you.