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What Counts as Genuine Savings When Applying for a Mortgage?
Not all deposit money is created equal. When applying for a mortgage, banks often want to see that at least part of your deposit comes from genuine savings—money you’ve steadily put aside over time. But what counts as “genuine”? And how much do you actually need? In this article, we break down the types of savings banks love to see, which sources don’t qualify, and what to do if your deposit is mostly gifted or inherited. Understanding how genuine savings work can give you a stronger shot at mortgage approval—especially if you’ve got less than a 20% deposit.
The Bank of Mum and Dad: Helping First Home Buyers the Right Way
As the dream of homeownership drifts further out of reach for many first-time buyers, the ‘Bank of Mum and Dad’ has become an increasingly common – and crucial – source of support. But how families structure that help can have long-term implications. Here's what you need to know before gifting or lending money for a home deposit.
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.
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.
What to Do if Your KiwiSaver Drops Before Buying Your First Home
You’ve found the perfect first home, but there’s a problem—your KiwiSaver has taken a hit due to a dip in the market. Suddenly, the deposit you were relying on isn’t quite enough. Don’t panic. Here’s what to do when your KiwiSaver drops in value just as you’re about to buy, and how to protect yourself with a smart strategy moving forward.
Mortgage Deposit: Can I Take Out a Loan to Increase It?
Banks love to see savings discipline—but what if you’re just short of the deposit you need? Can you borrow the difference to hit your 10% or 20% mortgage deposit goal? We unpack whether loans, credit cards, or finance company top-ups are a smart (or even allowed) way to bridge the gap.
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.