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As interest rates begin to decline due to the recent 0.5% OCR drop, and with another 0.5% OCR reduction predicted for November 27th, many are asking the same question: What will happen to house prices and where will interest rates land? While there is a general belief...

The much-hyped tax cuts for 83% of New Zealanders over the age of 15 have come into effect. Whoop-de-do, I hear you say. And yes, for most of us you’d be right. Working-age New Zealanders will get an additional $16 a week on average. And that is not a lot to get...

The recent OCR reduction by the RBNZ, from 5.5% to 5.25%, has raised borrowers' hopes for relief from high interest rates. These expectations are further bolstered by a drop in wholesale interest rates, known as SWAP rates. Many banks had already started lowering...

If you’re wanting to reduce your mortgage interest rates to save yourself money, then refinancing a could be a very good strategic move. Mortgage Refinancing involves taking out a new home loan to pay off your existing one and there are many valid reasons for wanting...

The New Zealand banking landscape is abuzz with significant movements this July, bringing positive news regarding interest rates and inflation, though house sales and prices are less encouraging. Several major banks have announced notable drops in their interest...

As mortgage advisers, we frequently hear the question, "Can I get a mortgage while on maternity leave?". Contrary to some misconceptions, the answer is yes, provided you meet certain criteria. And your chances of success can vary depending on factors such as where you...

Like it or not, insurance is a critical aspect of financial planning. Yet it is often surrounded by myths and misconceptions that can lead to confusion or even put people off from taking it out altogether. Want to make informed decisions about your financial future?...

Mortgages should not just be set and forget. Times change, circumstances change and bank policies change. That’s why we’re here. Our job is to help homeowners optimise their mortgage arrangements so they can get rid of debt faster. But for that to happen, mortgage...

New Zealand has become an increasingly popular destination for skilled professionals. As of 20 May 2024, Immigration New Zealand (INZ) had approved 120,065 AEWV applications, and there are 35,591 accredited employers. The long-term employer-accredited visa (AEWV)...

Insurance is a safety net for when life takes an unexpected turn. And in today's digital age, buying insurance online might seem like a convenient and cost-effective solution. However, doing so can leave you vulnerable when you need protection the most. When it comes...

Are you in the market to buy a home but much of your income comes from commissions or bonuses? Have you unhappily discovered that your mortgage eligibility is falling short of your expectations? Don’t worry. The bank may turn you down based on how much your main...

Wanting a buy a property? Found a house you really like that ticks all the boxes? Problem is that if you like the property and think it is a good buy, chances are that other prospective homebuyers will probably feel the same way. They may also want to make an offer on...

Can a second job help you when it comes to getting a home loan from the bank? The answer is yes. A second job can definitely help you secure a bigger mortgage and according to Aseem Agarwal, Head of Mortgages at Global Finance having more than one job is becoming a...

Coming up are anticipated shifts in bank lending criteria in New Zealand that could significantly impact investors: namely changes to the bright-line test and the introduction of a debt-to-income ratio. As an investor or homebuyer, what could these changes mean for...

"Just because a bank has told you that you don't qualify for a bank loan, don't just take this as an absolute NO or assume that other banks will also turn down your home loan application because there's something wrong in your profile.” it should not be viewed as the...

Securing a loan is not just about having a large enough deposit; it also involves a meticulous examination of your expenses. Banks look into your financial commitments and spending patterns, examining credit cards, store cards, loans, overdrafts, monthly bills and...

Whether you're negotiating for a property purchase either by negotiation or through auction, we can’t stress enough how important it is that you have a clear understanding of how purchase of property and /or auctions work. A clear understanding of the ins and outs of...

A very Important guide from Global Finance The phrase “interest-only mortgage” is actually a misnomer because it’s not an interest-only mortgage, it’s an interest-only period. Interest only mortgages still need to be paid off at some point reduce the principal....