News and Insights
Keep up with the property market, interest rates, lending rules and other useful updates for anyone who wants to make smarter property and financial decisions.
Why first home buyers often get better interest rates on new builds
If you’re a first home buyer with a 10% deposit, a new build could actually get you a better interest rate than an existing home. Banks treat new builds differently, which can mean sharper pricing and better deals. Here’s what you need to know.
EV finance in NZ: Why rising petrol prices make the switch smarter
With petrol prices on the rise, we’re getting a lot more questions about EV finance. And it’s not hard to see why. What many people don’t realise is that most of the main banks now offer 0% or 1% interest rates on home loan top-ups for EV purchases. Here’s what you need to know.
Insurance and your new build: what you need to know (minus the boring bits)
If you’re about to build, something that often slips under the radar til the last minute is insurance. Not the most exciting topic, but it’s one of the easiest ways to avoid delays and headaches. Here’s what you need to know.
Property covenants explained: what buyers and developers need to know
More formally called restrictive covenants, these are rules or conditions that apply to a property. Done well, they can protect value and enhance a neighbourhood. Done poorly, they can limit your options and create real headaches for both buyers and developers. Here’s everything you need to consider, whether you’re a buyer or developer.
Wondering about build guarantees? Here’s what you need to know
A build guarantee might not be the most exciting part of the process, but it’s your safety net if things go off track. It can protect you financially from loss, delays, unfinished work, or major structural defects. It also adds peace of mind. Here’s everything you need to know.
What happens after your new build passes inspection? A step-by-step guide to securing your Code Compliance Certificate (CCC)
The CCC confirms your home meets consented plans and Building Code standards. It’s often needed for your lender to release final funds and gives you peace of mind that the build is legally signed off, helping avoid issues down the track. So what needs to happen now?