Loan Market Cat McMenemy

Loan Market Cat McMenemy Mortgage Adviser based in Auckland, New Zealand Senior Mortgage Adviser

Trying to buy a home on a single income can feel like trying to ride a tandem bicycle by yourself. It takes a lot of dri...
10/06/2026

Trying to buy a home on a single income can feel like trying to ride a tandem bicycle by yourself. It takes a lot of drive, but solo Kiwi buyers are making it happen.

When you’re flying solo, getting an approval comes down to a few clever, tactical strategies that help maximise your position in the eyes of a lender.

You don't have to pedal a tandem bike alone. Send us a message and let's run the numbers on your position to make it happen.

Many first-home buyers think they need a standard 20% deposit to get on the property ladder, but the reality is that you...
08/06/2026

Many first-home buyers think they need a standard 20% deposit to get on the property ladder, but the reality is that you might not actually need to save that much.

There are a few pathways available that let first-home buyers secure a property with a much lower deposit. Depending on your situation, you could be looking at options anywhere from 5% to 10%.

Whether you combine your KiwiSaver withdrawal, personal savings, or even family support, your property goals can suddenly get fast-tracked.

Keep in mind that banks factor a Low Equity Margin (LEM) into your rate for lower deposits, and every lender has completely different rules for navigating it.

You don't have to tackle those criteria alone. Connect with us for a chat and let’s see what options are open to you.

https://adviser.loanmarket.co.nz/catriona-mcmenemy/products-services/first-home-buyers/

Staring at your banking app trying to guess where interest rates are heading next? You’re definitely not alone.If your f...
04/06/2026

Staring at your banking app trying to guess where interest rates are heading next? You’re definitely not alone.

If your fixed rate is coming up for renewal over the next few months, it's natural to have a few questions about what the current lending landscape looks like.

Getting a head start simply gives you time to look at the options with clarity before your deadline arrives. If your fixed term is winding down, let’s connect for a no-obligation chat.

When the headlines say the property market is quiet, most people freeze. But seasoned property investors do the exact op...
02/06/2026

When the headlines say the property market is quiet, most people freeze. But seasoned property investors do the exact opposite.

Latest data from Cotality shows that multiple property owners are quietly holding a 24% share of the property market right now.

While everyone else is hesitating, they are capitalising on less competition and better negotiating power. And with tax rules like 100% interest deductibility fully back in play, the math on long-term wealth creation is stacking up again.

If you already own a home, you might be closer to buying your first rental property than you think.

Explore our website to see how you could use your current position to start investing.

https://adviser.loanmarket.co.nz/catriona-mcmenemy/products-services/investment-loans/

Happy King’s Birthday!There is nothing quite like a long weekend to make you look around your home and start planning a ...
31/05/2026

Happy King’s Birthday!

There is nothing quite like a long weekend to make you look around your home and start planning a few upgrades.

Whether it’s modernising your kitchen, refreshing your bathroom, or practical maintenance like roofing and painting before the winter weather turns, you don't necessarily have to sell to get the space you want.

There are some competitive renovation loan options in the market right now designed specifically to help you fall in love with your home all over again.

Enjoy the rest of your day off, and let’s chat later this week about exploring your options.

We are grateful for the kind words and the trust our clients place in us every day! 🙏 Looking for an expert adviser who ...
28/05/2026

We are grateful for the kind words and the trust our clients place in us every day! 🙏

Looking for an expert adviser who can help you navigate your options and keep things simple?

Let’s connect today to discuss how we can help.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has held the Official Cash Rate steady at 2.25% once again in today’s announcement.This ...
27/05/2026

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has held the Official Cash Rate steady at 2.25% once again in today’s announcement.

This extended period of stability gives Kiwis a steady window to review their options. However, a "paused" cash rate doesn't mean you should leave your mortgage on autopilot.

If you have a fixed rate up for renewal soon, or you're planning a property move, now is the time to look at your options.

Let’s get your strategy sorted early. Reach out today for a quick mortgage review!

You've been saving. You've been planning. Now you're wondering… is now still the right time to build or renovate? 🤔Accor...
25/05/2026

You've been saving. You've been planning. Now you're wondering… is now still the right time to build or renovate? 🤔

According to the latest QV data, while the rapid inflation of previous years has eased, new short-term pressures are emerging:

🏗️ Fuel-driven spikes: Rising diesel prices have caused an immediate 7.8% jump in excavation costs, with site preparation and demolition also trending upward.

⏳ Shorter quote validity: Due to this volatility, many builders are narrowing their quote validity periods to 30 days or less, requiring homeowners to be ready to act quickly.

💰 Contingency buffers: Lenders are closely monitoring project feasibility, often requiring a robust contingency buffer of 10% to 20% to account for variations.

The good news? With overall cost growth remaining relatively moderate at 0.4% in March, a well-structured plan can still see a project move forward successfully.

Read more on the blog for our full breakdown of what is driving costs and how to plan your finances smarter.

https://adviser.loanmarket.co.nz/catriona-mcmenemy/blog/construction-costs-steady-overall-but-fuel-prices-add-pressure/

Buying a home involves more than just the purchase price; it’s about your LVR.The Loan-to-Value Ratio is how lenders ass...
20/05/2026

Buying a home involves more than just the purchase price; it’s about your LVR.

The Loan-to-Value Ratio is how lenders assess their risk and determine your interest rate structure. In New Zealand, if your LVR is over 80% (meaning your deposit is less than 20%), you usually need to factor in Low Equity Margins or Fees.

Understanding this ratio early helps you plan your deposit strategy more effectively and know exactly what your repayments will look like.

Reach out if you want to run the numbers for your specific situation.

https://adviser.loanmarket.co.nz/catriona-mcmenemy/contact-us

Hearing that we’ve made a difference for our clients is the best reward we could ask for! 👏 Whatever your financial goal...
18/05/2026

Hearing that we’ve made a difference for our clients is the best reward we could ask for! 👏

Whatever your financial goals look like, we’re here to help you move forward with confidence.

Ready to get started? Get in touch for a chat today! ☎️

Address

North West Shopping Centre 1 Fred Taylor Drive
Te Atatu
0610

Opening Hours

Monday 8:30am - 5pm
Tuesday 8:30am - 5pm
Wednesday 8:30am - 5pm
Thursday 8:30am - 5pm
Friday 8:30am - 5pm

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