Anne Miel 4/1/25 Anne Miel 4/1/25

Is It Worth Getting a Flatmate to Help Pay My Mortgage?

Thinking about getting a flatmate to help with the mortgage? That spare room could be the smartest financial decision you make. Here's how shared living can shave years off your home loan, boost your equity, and ease financial pressure—without sacrificing your sanity.

Anne Miel 4/1/25 Anne Miel 4/1/25

Everything you need to know about debt

Not all debt is created equal. Some can build your future—others can derail it. Learn the difference between good, bad, and grey-area debt, how it affects your mortgage application, and the steps you can take to improve your credit score and borrowing potential.

Rupert Gough 3/31/25 Rupert Gough 3/31/25

15 Smart Ways to Increase Your Home’s Value and Unlock Equity for Investment

Looking to build a property portfolio? These smart, low-cost home upgrades can boost your home’s value—unlocking equity you can use for your next investment property.

Anne Miel 3/30/25 Anne Miel 3/30/25

The Official Cash Rate (OCR) Explained

The Official Cash Rate (OCR) is one of the most powerful levers the Reserve Bank has to steer New Zealand’s economy. It influences mortgage rates, inflation, spending, and even the exchange rate. Whether you're a homeowner, investor or saver, understanding how the OCR works is essential to making smarter financial decisions.

Anne Miel 3/30/25 Anne Miel 3/30/25

Should You Break Your Fixed Mortgage? Here’s How to Calculate If It’s Worth It

Thinking about breaking your fixed mortgage rate to get a better deal? Here's how to calculate the break cost, assess whether it’s worth it, and avoid common pitfalls. With the right strategy, breaking your rate could save you thousands.

Anne Miel 3/30/25 Anne Miel 3/30/25

Should You Refinance to Another Bank for a Lower Interest Rate?

Tempted to switch banks for a slightly better mortgage rate? Here's how to weigh the potential savings against the hidden costs and effort involved in refinancing.

Rupert Gough 3/29/25 Rupert Gough 3/29/25

2 Bank Account Tips the Banks Will Never Tell You

Two smart banking strategies to boost your mortgage options and protect your lending access—tips the banks won’t offer but mortgage advisers know well.

Anne Miel 3/29/25 Anne Miel 3/29/25

Your mortgage rate is 8%

Your interest rate might be 6% or less—but planning as if it were 8% could save you thousands and cut your loan term in half.

Anne Miel 3/29/25 Anne Miel 3/29/25

How Offset Mortgages Work in New Zealand

Offset accounts are a smart tool for mortgage holders with savings—offering the ability to reduce interest without locking funds away. Here’s how offset mortgages work, who they’re good for, and when to consider one as part of your home loan structure.

Anne Miel 3/28/25 Anne Miel 3/28/25

Fixing or Refixing Your Mortgage: 3 Questions to Ask Before You Lock In

Whether you're fixing your mortgage for the first time or refixing an expiring loan, asking the right questions can save you thousands. Here’s what to consider before you commit to a new term.

Anne Miel 3/27/25 Anne Miel 3/27/25

10 Annual Home Maintenance Tasks Most Homeowners Forget

These 10 home maintenance tasks should be done annually—but most people forget. Tick them off to protect your home, avoid costly repairs, and feel smugly accomplished.

Anne Miel 3/26/25 Anne Miel 3/26/25

Renovate Your Home or Pay Down Your Mortgage?

Should you put your savings into home improvements or your mortgage? This guide explores the pros, cons, and clever strategies for making the right financial and lifestyle call.

Anne Miel 3/24/25 Anne Miel 3/24/25

Getting a Divorce and a Mortgage – What You Need to Know

Dividing the spoons is one thing, but sorting your mortgage post-divorce is quite another. Whether you're buying out your ex, purchasing a new home, or simply trying to understand how separation impacts your ability to borrow, here’s what you need to know.

Anne Miel 3/21/25 Anne Miel 3/21/25

What is a Reverse Mortgage?

Reverse mortgages let retirees unlock equity in their homes without selling or making repayments. Learn how they work, how much you can borrow, and whether they’re the right solution for your retirement.

Anne Miel 3/20/25 Anne Miel 3/20/25

Revolving Credit vs Floating Mortgage Account: What’s the difference?

Fixed-term mortgages may be the norm, but savvy borrowers often turn to floating and revolving credit accounts for flexibility and interest savings. So, what’s the difference—and when should you use each?