From 1 March 2021, loan-to-value ratio (LVR) restrictions will be back in place, changing the way both investors and first home buyers are able to access bank lending. LVRs were removed in 2020 following the COVID-19 outbreak. But now, in an effort to cool the New Zealand property market which has performed far better than expected, The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has one again implemented LVR restrictions Here’s what this means for you.

COVID-19 hit many New Zealand families hard, with reduced hours and job losses that left homeowners struggling to repay the mortgage. While most banks offered an initial 3-month and then a further 6-month mortgage deferral in 2020, most deferrals end on 31 March 2021 and homeowners are expected to restart mortgage repayments. If you’re experiencing financial stress or difficulties, here are some ways you may be able to get help.

Life changing events often signal the right time to review insurance cover and make any necessary adjustments to policies. While insurance may not always be top of mind, a regular review of all insurance cover ensures your policies still reflect changes to your lifestyle and financial situation. To help you plan an insurance review at the right time, we’ve outlined some of the milestone events that could trigger an insurance review.

As the link between lenders and borrowers, mortgage advisers help their clients identify the right home loan with interest rate and terms to fit their financial situation. With access to a panel of lenders, they can shop around for the borrower and match them up with the right lender. If you haven’t already worked with a mortgage adviser, and you’re unsure just how they can help you, start by asking your mortgage adviser these three questions.

Your credit score is more important than you might think. Not only when it comes to applying for a mortgage or personal loan, but even when opening new bank accounts, utilities, or applying for insurance or car finance. How you spend and repay your debt directly affects your credit score. And every time you apply for credit, lenders use your credit score to decide whether or not to lend to you. Here’s how to improve your credit score.

Stuck with a low credit score and now struggling to get mortgage finance? The fact is a low credit score can have a negative impact on your home loan application. But it’s not all bad news. For those with a bad credit history, there are still financial options available with access to competitive mortgage rates. Read on to find out all you need to know about bad credit home loans.

Summertime sunshine quickly becomes unpleasant when your home feels like the inside of an oven! The fact is most older-style homes in New Zealand weren’t built with ventilation or cooling in mind. Which means they can feel stifling hot during the summer months. To help you stay cool without relying on an aircon, try some of these cooling tips inside your home this summer.

When it comes to buying property in New Zealand, many people find the auction process quite daunting. Being prepared by attending several auctions before you bid and doing your research can help you feel more confident. As property sales by auction are unconditional, so there are a few important steps you’ll need to take before bid. If you’re new to the auction process, and unsure where to start, check out this handy guide.

As house prices across New Zealand continue to rise, many first home buyers are turning to new builds as a way of getting onto the property ladder. But financing a new build is a little different to a regular mortgage on an existing property. To help you understand your options when it comes to building a new home, here is an outline of the things to look out for in a house and land turnkey package vs. a construction loan.

At the start of a new year, many people commit to doing things a little differently in the year ahead by setting New Year’s Resolutions. Often these New Year’s Resolutions centre around saving more or spending less. If you’re committed to improving your financial situation this year, why not start with these tips to help you pay off your mortgage faster.