Under the Fair Trading Act, businesses in New Zealand can’t mislead you with false information in advertising or about pricing. For several years, many NZ-based banks have been processing re-fix requests using direct 'digital' channels. Previously, to get a good deal on your mortgage, you'd have to pretend to leave (often through the adviser), to
I've been loyal to my bank, so they'll look after me! Yes, this used to be true...but...Loyalty is NOT rewarded these days my friend! Here’s why: 1 - It’s not the bank who cares about you - it’s the PEOPLE. And good people often move on and get promoted! 2 - Rules trump all in
Financial Advisers just want to sell you products so they can get paid! Well, here’s a myth that has truth in it - the answer is...YES!! Financial advisers want to get paid! Do you go to work for free? The real question that you want to ask here is this: Does the desire to get
It’s not about the rate that you pay, it’s about the rate at which you repay that matters - get rid of that debt fast, and your interest bill is cheaper. This truth is often ignored as it's not as easy to quantify and compare as a low number - this, unfortunately, causes many to
Righto, let’s have a crack at a topic that people like me don’t like talking about. The main reason why is because it’s new, and anything new, especially when it has the potential to change the status quo, makes one feel uncomfortable. Do you kind of feel the same way? So yeah, this stuff scares
‘Never, it should go next to the house!’ - said some smart-ass in the corner. You know what I’m talking about right though- you own a home with a backyard that’s simply crying out for it - ‘gimme a pool!!!’ You potentially had one as a child and you had fond memories of having your
The latest generation of homeowner is far more likely to borrow against the value of their home, to buy stuff that does not increase in value, like a car. Is this right or wrong? Grandpa says it's wrong, your dad’s done it though, and you’re all about it - but should you be? Getting into
It’s not about the cost of money; it’s about the availability of money! And right now, money has become less available. Here’s the bad news first: - Banks have been restricted recently by how much they lend by the regulators (like the Reserve Bank of New Zealand a la LVR restrictions) and the 'Responsible Lending Code'. - Banks have been
