Home Loan Advisers N.Z.

02/09/2025

You might have seen a few Line boring photos go up, this is the exciting new direction that Falcon Industries has moved into. Give us a call for any of your Line boring, pins, bushes and machining needs. - Josh on 027 5958988

02/09/2025

Josh is your man.........skill in bucket loads

You might have seen a few Line boring photos go up, this is the exciting new direction that Falcon Industries has moved into. Give us a call for any of your Line boring, pins, bushes and machining needs. - Josh on 027 5958988

25/06/2025

Looking for a cool house in Tauranga.......check this one out: https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/property/residential/sale/listing/5157315005?bof=a4RMvhFZ

29/04/2025

Looking for work in Tauranga.......good with your hands and if you have great people skills and great sales skills:

Hands-on role fixing shoes, helping customers, and learning new skills. Join a small team that takes pride in doing the job right, every step counts.

02/04/2025

So, you’ve gone ahead and upgraded to Windows 11. You’re ready to explore the fresh design and all the new features. But instead of smooth sailing, your computer slows to a crawl… random errors start popping up… and you can’t install any security updates…

That’s the nightmare faced by businesses that try to run Windows 11 on unsupported hardware.

Hardware requirements are a checklist you should use to make sure your business devices can handle an upgrade.

Think of it like a recipe: If you’re missing a key ingredient, the dish won’t turn out quite right. And while you might like to improvise in the kitchen, it’s better not to risk it with your business tech.

Windows 11 brings a leap forward in both performance and security. If you want to make that jump, you need a solid foundation in the form of modern hardware that can support its advanced features.

One of the key requirements for Windows 11 is something called TPM 2.0. This is a small chip that acts like a security vault for your PC, locking away passwords, encryption keys, and other sensitive data. TPM 2.0 is also essential for preventing certain types of cyber attacks. Without it, your system is more vulnerable.

Other requirements – like enough memory (RAM), sufficient storage, and a compatible processor – help to make sure your device can run Windows 11 smoothly.

Microsoft has warned that forcing Windows 11 onto unsupported hardware is a risky move. Sure, you can do it – but you’ll be on your own if things go wrong. Your device won’t receive updates, including critical security patches that keep your systems safe from cyber attacks and other threats. Without updates, your business’s devices become an easy target.

So, you might be thinking – why not just stick with Windows 10?

Here’s the thing: Microsoft is ending free support for Windows 10 in October this year. After that…

No more updates

No more fixes

And no more free security patches.

There is an option to pay for extended security updates, but it’s not a permanent solution. Upgrading to Windows 11 helps to make sure your systems stay secure for the long haul, without extra costs and headaches down the line. And beyond the security benefits, Windows 11 comes with loads of productivity tools designed to make your business run more smoothly.

If upgrading your hardware feels like an unnecessary expense, think of it as an investment. Modern devices don’t just meet Windows 11’s requirements, they run faster, last longer, and reduce the risk of downtime.

The bottom line is that hardware requirements aren’t just suggestions – they’re there to protect your business and give your team the tools they need to succeed.

If your devices don’t meet Windows 11’s requirements, now is the time to plan your next steps. Don’t wait until Windows 10 support ends or your systems become a security risk for your business.

25/03/2025

Refinancing your Mortgage? Here’s What You Need to Know Before Making a Move.
As a mortgage adviser with over three decades of experience in the New Zealand market, I’ve witnessed firsthand how strategic mortgage refinancing can create significant financial opportunities for homeowners.
With the Official Cash Rate (OCR) now at 3.75% and showing a downward trend, many people are wondering if now is the right time to refinance.
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Understanding New Zealand Mortgage Rates in 2025
The current mortgage landscape presents some compelling opportunities. As of March 2025, we’re seeing competitive fixed-term rates starting from 4.99% for 2-year terms across major banks including ANZ, ASB, and BNZ.
This represents a notable improvement from previous years and could mean substantial savings for many homeowners.
What makes the New Zealand mortgage market unique is our preference for shorter fixed-term mortgages, typically ranging from one to five years. This differs significantly from markets like the United States, where 30-year fixed terms are common.
This structure creates more frequent opportunities for refinancing and rate optimisation.
Key Refinancing Benefits You Should Know
Let me share a recent client success story. Sarah and Mike, a Christchurch couple, were paying 7.5% on their $500,000 mortgage. After reviewing their situation, we secured a new rate of 4.99% on a 2-year fixed term. This adjustment reduced their monthly payments by $786, leading to potential savings of approximately $235,839 over their remaining 25-year term.
Beyond interest rate savings, refinancing can offer:
• Debt Consolidation: Merge high-interest debts into your mortgage at a lower rate
• Home Equity Access: Fund renovations or investments using your home’s increased value
• Loan Structure Flexibility: Adjust your loan term to either reduce monthly payments or pay off your mortgage faster
Why Partner with a Mortgage Adviser When it Comes to Refinancing?
The mortgage market’s complexity often surprises even experienced homeowners.
Recent research by Financial Advice New Zealand reveals an impressive 87% of those who reviewed their mortgage with an adviser’s help believe the changes will save them money. Here’s why:
Market Access: I maintain relationships with multiple lenders and in some cases have access to rates and products not directly available to consumers. Currently, we work with 20+ lenders, each offering unique products suited for different situations.
Personalised Strategy: Every homeowner’s situation is unique. Recently, I worked with a client approaching retirement who wanted to refinance to a shorter term. I structured a solution that slightly increased their monthly payments but will save them around $75,000 in interest over the life of the loan.
Process Management: I handle the paperwork, negotiations, and communications with lenders. This typically saves our clients 15-20 hours of personal time during the refinancing process.
Making the Move: Next Steps
If you’re considering refinancing, here’s what you should know about the current market:
• Fixed rates are showing a downward trend, with 2-year terms particularly competitive
• 70% of New Zealand mortgages are due for refixing within the next 12 months
• According to the latest Valocity Market Insights Report, the housing market is stabilising, with the national median price at $780,000
The best time to review your mortgage is now, especially if:
• Your fixed term is ending within the next 6 months
• You haven’t reviewed your mortgage structure in the past 2 years
• Your financial situation has changed significantly
Let me know if you want to discuss your options.

10/03/2025

Thinking of investing......here is a great option.

Your nest egg deserves to be well managed and earning you consistent returns. And that's what we do - protect and grow kiwi nest eggs, as if they were our own.

Wondering what the difference is when you invest with FMT? Our CEO Paul Bendall puts it well “We optimise investor return rather than maximise it – that means making sure we find the right balance between risk and return.”

Let us take the worry out of investing, so you can focus on enjoying the life you've worked so hard for. With FMT, your peace of mind is our priority.

You can learn more about investing with First Mortgage Trust, and get copies of our PDSs, by visiting our website: fmt.co.nz

First Mortgage Managers is the issuer.

06/02/2025

As a self-employed borrower, you may encounter unique challenges when applying for a mortgage - especially if it’s for the first time. However, with proper preparation and expert guidance, these hurdles can be overcome.

In this week’s update, we’ll delve into the key aspects of securing a mortgage as a self-employed first home buyer, so you can navigate this process with confidence.

Demonstrating Your Financial Stability.
As a self-employed borrower, proving your ability to meet mortgage repayments is key. While your income may vary, lenders understand this is part of running your own business. Typically, they'll ask for your last two years of financial accounts. This isn't a barrier, but an opportunity to showcase your financial stability.

However, if you are less than two years into your self-employment journey, many lenders now offer specialised mortgage products tailored to the needs of self-employed borrowers, so we can look at any cash flow forecasts prepared by a qualified accountant, contracts or agreements with key clients and whether you have had previous employment history in the same industry to showcase your financial reliability.

Strengthening Your Application.
When it comes time to apply for a home loan, your mortgage application will probably need a little bit more finesse. But don't worry – with the right approach, and an experienced Mortgage Adviser by your side, we can present a compelling case to lenders. Let's explore some key strategies to bolster your application and increase your chances of approval.

Separate Personal and Business Finances: This demonstrates financial organisation and professionalism. Consider opening dedicated business accounts and maintaining clear records of all transactions.

Maintain Impeccable Tax Records: Stay current with IRD obligations to boost lender confidence. Regularly review and update your tax information, and consider engaging a professional accountant to ensure accuracy.

Build a Robust Savings History: A healthy savings account illustrates strong financial management. Aim to consistently set aside a portion of your income, demonstrating your ability to manage cash flow effectively.

Manage Your Credit Score: Regularly check your credit report and address any issues promptly. Take proactive steps to improve your credit score, such as paying bills on time and reducing outstanding debts.

Finding the Right Lender for You.
When it comes to securing a mortgage as a self-employed borrower, it's important to cast a wide net. The lending landscape has evolved significantly in recent years, recognising the unique financial profiles of self-employed borrowers. By exploring diverse lending options, you're not just increasing your chances of approval – you're potentially unlocking more favourable terms tailored to your specific situation.

Don't limit yourself to traditional banks. New Zealand's lending market offers a variety of options tailored for self-employed individuals like:

Non-Bank Lenders: Often offer more flexible criteria for self-employed applicants.

Near-Prime Lenders: Cater to borrowers who fall just outside standard bank criteria.

Alternative Documentation Loans (Alt Doc): Allow you to qualify using non-traditional financial documents.

Remember, each of these options comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. We can help you navigate the different Lenders and their products, ensuring we find the perfect fit for your own circumstances. By thoroughly exploring these options, we're not just seeking approval – we're aiming to secure a mortgage that aligns with your long-term financial goals and supports your journey as a self-employed homeowner.

Making It Happen.
Being self-employed doesn’t mean putting your homeownership dreams on hold. Lenders are increasingly recognising the value that self-employed borrowers bring to the table. Your ability to manage your own business demonstrates responsibility, financial literacy, and long-term planning - all qualities that make for an excellent homeowner.

The key to success lies in preparation, presentation, and partnering with the right experts. By thoroughly documenting your finances, exploring the range of lending options, and leveraging specialised mortgage products, you're setting yourself up for a smooth and successful home-buying experience.



Are you ready to take the first step towards owning your dream home? Let's work together to turn your property dreams into reality. As your dedicated Mortgage Adviser, I'm here to guide you through every stage of the process, from initial planning to picking up the keys to your new home.