Managing Property Investment into Retirement

Jun 3, 2021 9:50:55 AM

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?


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Topics: Selling, Retirement, First Home Buyer

How to Save a First Home Deposit

Jun 3, 2021 9:45:01 AM

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.


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Topics: Selling, Mortgage Advisers, First Home Buyer

Buying a Home on One Income

May 19, 2021 3:47:45 PM

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?


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Topics: Selling, Mortgage Advisers, First Home Buyer

3 Tips for Property Investors Navigating High LVRs

May 19, 2021 3:43:37 PM

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.


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Topics: Selling, Property Investment, Interest Rates

Get Your Home (and Your Finances) Winter-Ready

Apr 30, 2021 10:28:00 PM

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.


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Topics: Selling, First Home Buyer, Health and Wellbeing

5 Questions to Ask Before Fixing Your Interest Rate

Apr 30, 2021 12:33:13 PM

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.


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Topics: Selling, Interest Rates, First Home Buyer

Get Auction Ready With These 5 Tips

Apr 21, 2021 4:30:25 PM

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.


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Topics: Selling, Investment Property, First Home Buyer

New Zealand Property Market Update | April 2021

Apr 20, 2021 4:25:47 PM

From 01 April 2021, a number of government-led changes have come into effect aimed at fixing New Zealand’s housing crisis and slowing rampant house price inflation. Along with a considerable funding boost for new home builds and measures designed to slow down investors, the First Home Grant and First Home Loan income and house price caps have increased to assist first home buyers. Here’s a breakdown of the measures government has initiated.


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Topics: Selling, Investment Property, First Home Buyer

Tenancy Reforms: An Update For Landlords

Apr 1, 2021 11:30:15 AM

In what’s been described as the biggest overhaul of tenancy laws in thirty-five years, a number of tenancy reforms came into effect in February 2021. The bulk of these reforms have been designed to improve the wellbeing of renters and address issues like instability, uncertainty, and disruption to tenants and their families. If you are a landlord or a renter, here is an outline of the tenancy reforms already in force and those still to come.


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Topics: Selling, Investment Property

Teaching Your Kids to be Financially Savvy

Apr 1, 2021 11:17:00 AM

In a world where instant gratification has become a normal way of life, it’s more important than ever that children learn smart money skills from a young age. Many children grow up believing that mum and dad are a never-ending ATM, with online access to just about anything with the click of a button. And while it can be hard having to say no sometimes, it’s a big part of cultivating a healthy relationship with money. To help set your children up for a financially savvy future, here are some helpful things to consider.


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Topics: Selling, Financial Health, NZ Mortgage Adviser