Underinsurance in New Zealand is becoming a concerning trend, with more Kiwis opting out of the financial protection of insurance due to perceived high costs. As cost-of-living pressures continue to impact budgets, many households are being forced to choose between everyday expenses, like food, rent or mortgage, and insurance cover, because of affordability. Even in these challenging financial conditions however, the importance of maintaining adequate insurance cover cannot be overstated ..read more

End of financial year (EOFY) is an important time for all businesses, and property investors are no exception. Along with preparing financials and filing tax returns, EOFY offers property investors the opportunity to conduct a comprehensive financial review, evaluate investment performance, appraise and adjust rental rates, scrutinise essential expenses such as insurance, and set financial goals for the year ahead ..read more

House prices are slowly rising but the national price index is still behind on the same time last year. Across all regions in New Zealand, new property listings are up to levels not seen since 2015. And Government policy changes impacting landlords, including the reinstatement of tax deductibility and changes to tenancy laws, could spur the market. As always, staying informed, adapting strategies, and getting professional mortgage advice are essential for navigating New Zealand’s dynamic property market ..read more

In the busyness of daily life, it's easy to adopt a "set and forget" mentality when it comes to finances. And that includes the mortgage, often fading into the background once it’s in place, ignored for the duration of the loan term. But did you know that regularly reviewing your home loan can unlock a wealth of benefits? From saving money to shortening your loan term to accessing your equity, a mortgage review is an essential part of home ownership ..read more

Maintaining your home may seem overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Keeping on top of the smaller tasks helps ensure your home is well-prepared to handle the changing weather and prevent expensive repairs in the future. From safeguarding against chilly drafts to preventing potential hazards, prioritising these autumn home maintenance tips will ensure your home remains safe, comfortable, and cosy throughout the cooler months ..read more

Are you dreaming of a mortgage-free future, but not sure where to start or what you should do to get there? Being mortgage-free may seem like a distant dream, but paying off your mortgage early is not only achievable, it’s also a smart financial move that could save you thousands of dollars in interest. Read on as we explore five practical strategies to help you accelerate your mortgage repayment journey and achieve your mortgage-free dreams ..read more

Success in the any industry is often measured in milestones, and for Sue Clydesdale, Mortgage Adviser - Mortgage Express, reaching the $1 billion career settled sales mark is a testament to a lifetime dedicated to the art of the deal and the power of enduring personal relationships. From the thriving community of Christchurch to the bustling halls of Grenadier Real Estate, where Sue has been a steadfast presence throughout her career, her journey is one of resilience through natural disasters, economic trials, and the changing tides of the real estate market ..read more

Buying a home in New Zealand takes careful financial planning, especially when it comes to budgeting. A clear understanding of financial situation is crucial for first home buyers who face challenges such as high prices, tough competition, and strict lending rules. Whether you’re already preparing to enter the property market or just starting your journey to home ownership, here are 3 essential budgeting tips to help transform your financial goals into reality ..read more

Navigating the complex landscape of insurance can feel a bit like negotiating a minefield, with hidden hazards ready to trip up even the most diligent of consumers. Amongst these are six common insurance pitfalls which are often overlooked yet have the power to leave Kiwis without enough cover or entirely excluded from their expected benefits. Find out what to look out for and get practical advice on how to avoid these common insurance pitfalls ..read more

‘It will all work out’ – How one mortgage adviser's trust in the journey has helped her clients reach their destination... Annabelle (Belle) Lewis’ start to the financial advising industry was a unique one. Originally, she had planned to have a career in political science, but merely three weeks after graduating with a master’s degree in international relations and diplomacy, the overarching Covid pandemic hit, leaving her with little to no job prospects. In such a competitive industry, instead of letting the pandemic ruin her career plans, Belle strategically pivoted, and decided to focus he ..read more