Rupert Gough 5/26/25 Rupert Gough 5/26/25

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.

Rupert Gough 5/26/25 Rupert Gough 5/26/25

Top 5 Most Useful Property Websites in New Zealand

Looking to research a property or better understand what your home—or future home—is really worth? These five websites are among the most trusted and useful tools in New Zealand for getting up-to-date valuations, sales histories, council rates, and market insights.

Anne Miel 5/23/25 Anne Miel 5/23/25

4 Things You Can Do to Get Ready for Your Mortgage (No Matter When You’re Buying)

Thinking of buying a home now or even just “one day”? You don’t need to wait until you're house-hunting to start preparing. By taking a few simple steps now, you can put yourself in a far stronger position when the time comes to apply for a mortgage.

Anne Miel 5/14/25 Anne Miel 5/14/25

Purchasing at Auction – A Step by Step Guide

Bidding at auction can feel like a whirlwind of nerves and excitement—but with the right preparation, it doesn’t have to be intimidating. Whether you’re weeks out from auction day or already scouting open homes, understanding the mortgage and purchase process ahead of time can make all the difference. In this guide, we walk you through the steps to get auction-ready, explain the lingo you’ll hear on the day, and cover exactly what happens after the hammer falls.

Rupert Gough 4/25/25 Rupert Gough 4/25/25

Mortgage Strategies for Self-Employed and Gig Economy Workers

Navigating the mortgage process as a self-employed or gig economy worker in New Zealand presents unique challenges. This blog explores practical strategies for proving income, improving creditworthiness, and strengthening your home loan application.

Rupert Gough 4/22/25 Rupert Gough 4/22/25

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.

Rupert Gough 4/21/25 Rupert Gough 4/21/25

What to Check Before Buying a Property in New Zealand

Doing your homework before buying a home is one of the most important ways to reduce risk and avoid future regret. From LIMs to valuations, we break down what to check, who to talk to, and how to be a confident buyer before you make an offer.

Rupert Gough 4/18/25 Rupert Gough 4/18/25

9 Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Construction Loan

Thinking about building your dream home in New Zealand? Construction loans can be a great way to finance a new build—but they come with their own challenges. Learn how to avoid the most common mistakes and navigate the process with confidence.

Anne Miel 4/14/25 Anne Miel 4/14/25

What Is Price by Negotiation?

Buying a house listed as “Price by Negotiation” can feel a bit uncertain—but it also comes with flexibility and the opportunity to negotiate a deal that suits both you and the vendor. Here’s how to approach this style of sale with confidence.

Anne Miel 4/10/25 Anne Miel 4/10/25

Mortgagee Sales in NZ: Bargain or Big Risk?

Mortgagee sales can look like a steal—but they come with unique risks that every buyer must understand. From no guarantees on condition to potentially evicting the previous owner yourself, here’s what you need to know before signing anything.

Anne Miel 4/10/25 Anne Miel 4/10/25

When Should You Transfer Your Overseas Savings if You’re Buying a Home in NZ?

Returning to New Zealand with overseas savings? When to transfer your money can make a big difference to your deposit. Here’s what to consider before exchanging your funds into New Zealand dollars.

Anne Miel 4/8/25 Anne Miel 4/8/25

6 Tips for Bidding at Auction (and How to Prepare Like a Pro)

Buying at auction is fast, transparent, and often rewarding—but it’s also not for the faint-hearted. This guide covers everything from preparation to bidding tactics to help you win the auction without blowing your budget.

Anne Miel 4/7/25 Anne Miel 4/7/25

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.

Anne Miel 4/6/25 Anne Miel 4/6/25

What Happens When You Go to Buy Your Next House?

Buying your second or third home can be more complex than your first. Whether you're upgrading, downsizing or relocating, this blog explores the different paths you can take—buying before selling, selling before buying—and how bridging loans, pre-approvals, and due diligence all play a role.

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

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.

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

What Your Mortgage Application and Tinder Profile Have in Common (But Shouldn’t)

Your mortgage application isn’t the place for filters and flair—learn how to prep your finances so the bank says “yes,” and keep the Tinder content where it belongs.

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

How much does a Credit Card affect your lending?

Your credit card limit—not your balance—can reduce how much a bank will lend you for a mortgage. Here’s how to fix it and borrow more.

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

What Does LVR Mean?

LVR (Loan-to-Value Ratio) is one of the most important mortgage terms to understand. It tells you how much of your property is financed through lending—and can affect your approval, interest rate, and more.

Anne Miel 3/23/25 Anne Miel 3/23/25

The Mindset You Need to Get into Your First Home

Buying your first home can feel out of reach—but it isn’t. With the right mindset, practical tools, and a solid plan, home ownership is possible. Here's how to get ready, inside and out.