Bree Taylor-Blair Mortgage Advisor Mortgage Link Otago

07/09/2026

If you’ve been waiting for a sign, the latest Cotality analysis might be it.

Nationally, mortgage repayments now take up around 40% of the gross household income. That’s down from a peak of 54% in late 2021.

House values have also eased to 6.7 times the median household income, compared to 9.8 times at the market’s height (also late 2021).

Still not easy. But a very different picture to a few years ago.

💬 Want to know how much you could borrow? Get in touch with your Mortgage Link adviser.



Source: Cotality analysis, August 2026

29/08/2026

24/08/2026

And that mistake is... ignoring their mortgage structure.

Many people focus on getting the lowest interest rate, but overlook the fact that their mortgage structure has options.

If you want to pay off your home loan faster and build in more flexibility, there are other features worth exploring: offset accounts, split loans, revolving credit facilities and more.

Not all lenders offer the same features, and criteria vary widely. That's why it pays to compare across multiple lenders, something we're always happy to help with.

💬 Want to find the right mortgage structure for your situation? Get in touch: we'll make sure your home loan is working as hard as you are.

17/08/2026

Buying, selling or refinancing? In some cases, your lender may ask for a Registered Valuer's Report.

A registered valuation is an independent assessment of what a property is worth. Lenders use it to make more confident lending decisions, and it happens more often than you'd expect.

Common scenarios include:
🔹 Buying with a low deposit
🔹 New builds (construction or turnkey)
🔹 Non-standard properties
🔹 Private sales
🔹 Refinancing
🔹 Renovations funded through your mortgage

💬 Not sure if your situation calls for one? Get in touch: we're here to help.

10/08/2026

The Official Cash Rate went up last month. Are you across what that may mean for you?

Here's a quick breakdown.

💬 Have a read. And if you have any questions about your mortgage - call Bree on 027 688 1947. Happy to help!

03/08/2026

Before you write off the idea of buying your first home, let's look at the numbers together.

You may not need a 20% deposit.

Your KiwiSaver savings might contribute toward it, and there may be grants or schemes available depending on your situation.

And sometimes, all it takes is a few changes to your saving habits.

💬 Call Bree on 027 688 1947 for a tailored look at your circumstances.

27/07/2026

Unlike banks, a mortgage adviser compares options across multiple lenders (including your bank) to find what suits you.

✅ I do the legwork so you don't have to.
✅ I know what each lender is looking for, so your application is as strong as possible.
✅ I'm with you beyond approval - for refixes, reviews and whatever comes next.

And in most cases, it costs nothing. Mortgage advisers are paid by the lender you choose, not by you.

💬 Thinking about your mortgage options? Let's talk: call Bree on 027 688 1947

20/07/2026

When you’re self-employed, mortgage applications work a little differently.

Lenders will want more detail to verify your income, including:
✔ 2 years of financial statements
✔ Matching tax returns
✔ Evidence of ongoing contracts or revenue

If your business is newer or your income varies, there are still options. It just takes a bit more planning.

💬 Thinking about applying? Get in touch early: Bree - 027 688 1947

The sooner we understand your situation, the sooner we can help you put your best foot forward.

13/07/2026

Is your mortgage rate about to expire? Take a moment to look at the bigger picture.

The lowest rate is tempting, but refixing is really about choosing a term that fits your goals and plans.

💬 Need a sounding board? Contact Bree | 027 688 1947.

12/07/2026

Only two weeks until the Ice Bath Challenge, to raise money for Otago Hospice. Twizel giving me a taste of what's to come!

Please consider clicking on the link below to make a donation (this is a Group Link, as we are raising money collectively):
https://givealittle.co.nz/event/bniotago-icebathchallenge2026?fbclid=IwY2xjawTAETtleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFPekNtV1FpUUIyclVKbTNsc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgAB