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What Are Terraced Houses—and Are They a Good Buy?
Terraced housing is rapidly rising in popularity throughout New Zealand’s urban centres. But what exactly are terraced houses—and are they the right choice for first home buyers or investors? We explain how they work, what to look out for, and why they could (or might not) be a smart addition to your property plans.
Refinancing for Property Investors: What You Need to Know
Refinancing isn’t just for owner-occupiers looking for a better rate—it’s a powerful strategy for property investors too. Whether you're aiming to improve cash flow, restructure lending, access equity or simply take control of your property portfolio, refinancing can help sharpen your investment edge.
How to Use the Equity in Your Own Home to Buy an Investment Property
Using the equity in your current home can be a powerful way to get onto the investment property ladder without needing a big cash deposit. This blog breaks down what equity is, how to calculate it, and how to unlock it to grow your property portfolio—step by step.
Why Leveraged Property Investment Can Mean Higher Returns
Leveraged property investment is one of the most powerful ways to grow wealth through real estate. By using borrowed funds—typically through a mortgage—you can maximise your investment potential, increase your returns, and even build a diverse property portfolio. But while leverage can amplify gains, it can also increase risk. In this blog, we explore what leveraging really means, how it works in New Zealand’s property market, and what you need to watch out for.
When Should You Get Your Business Accounts Done for a Mortgage Application?
Self-employed and applying for a mortgage? Your financial accounts are key to proving your income. This guide explains when banks need your latest accounts and why getting them sorted early can make all the difference.
The Real Cost of Credit Cards on Your Mortgage Capacity
Credit cards are useful tools for everyday expenses, but they can seriously limit your ability to borrow for a home—regardless of how much you owe. Learn how lenders treat credit limits, how to optimise your financial position, and why trimming your plastic could be the key to unlocking your first (or next) mortgage.
What Is Split Banking?
Split banking is a strategic move for property investors that spreads your lending across multiple banks rather than relying on a single lender. It provides more control, better access to equity, and flexibility when expanding your portfolio or selling a property.
9 Tips for Making a Winning Offer by Tender
Thinking about making an offer by tender? Unlike auctions, tenders give you more flexibility, but success still hinges on preparation and strategy. In this guide, we share expert tips—beyond just price—to help you stand out and secure your dream property. From crafting a compelling offer to understanding the fine print, here’s what every buyer needs to know.
The Income Hurdle: Why Most Kiwi Investors Only Own One Investment Property
Most Kiwi investors stop at one rental property—but it’s not due to lack of interest. The real hurdle is income. In this article, we break down why the majority of investors struggle to grow their portfolio and what you can do to overcome the income barrier.
What to Look for When Buying an Investment Property
A successful investment property starts with smart due diligence. Learn how to assess a property's full potential—beyond just location and yield—using a proven, step-by-step evaluation approach.
How to Calculate Yield on an Investment Property (And Why It Matters)
Want to know if your investment property is going to pay off? Learn how to calculate gross and net rental yield, and how this affects your mortgage approval.
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.
Top Mistakes First-Time Property Investors Make (and How to Avoid Them)
Jumping into property investment without the right knowledge can be costly. From chasing cashflow without strategy to underestimating maintenance costs, we explore the most common mistakes new investors make—and how to avoid them.
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.
New Build vs Existing Home: Which Should You Buy?
Torn between building new or buying existing? This guide compares the financial, practical, and strategic pros and cons of each option for both first home buyers and investors.
Property Experts You Need on Your Team
Buying a property isn’t a solo mission. Whether you’re a first home buyer, investor, or planning a refinance, surrounding yourself with the right property experts can make the process faster, smoother, and more successful—often without significant cost.
Preparing For Your Mortgage – Documentation
Getting a mortgage approved doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right documents prepared ahead of time, you can speed up the process and give the bank everything they need to say yes.
Mortgage Glossary: Common Terms Every Home Buyer Should Know
Understanding mortgage jargon can make your home-buying journey a whole lot easier. Here’s a glossary of the most common mortgage terms in New Zealand, explained in plain English.
Can I Buy an Investment Property?
Thinking about buying an investment property? With deposit rules, equity usage, rental yields, and income testing all in play, it can feel more complex than a game of Monopoly. Here’s a breakdown of how to know if you’re in a position to invest—and what you’ll need to get across the line.
Ready To Buy: 3 Things Investment Property Buyers Can Do To Get Ready
Getting ready to buy your first investment property? It’s not as overwhelming as it might seem. From choosing the right ownership structure to stress-testing your numbers, here are three smart steps to set yourself up for success.