Frequently Asked Questions
KiwiSaver
How do I choose the right KiwiSaver fund?
That depends on your goals! Whether you’re saving for a first home or looking at long-term retirement savings, we help you find a KiwiSaver fund that matches your needs and risk level.
Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy a house?
You totally can! If you’ve been a KiwiSaver member for at least three years, you might be able to use some of your savings towards your first home. There are a few conditions, but we’ll walk you through the process and check if you’re eligible.
Can I withdraw my KiwiSaver early if I get sick or injured, or have financial issues?
In some serious situations, yes. If you’re facing financial hardship, a terminal illness, or moving overseas permanently (not just for a holiday), you might be able to make an early withdrawal.
What happens to my KiwiSaver if I change jobs?
Nothing dramatic, promise. Your contributions will just keep rolling with your new employer. Same account, same provider, still working hard behind the scenes.
Do I need to stick with the same KiwiSaver provider forever?
Not at all. If your current fund’s not quite vibing with your goals, we can help you switch to one that suits your stage of life and risk appetite better. No awkward breakups required.
Debt Consolidation
So what is debt consolidation?
It’s the process of rolling multiple debts into one new loan to simplify repayments and, reduce interest. We don’t offer the loan ourselves, but we’ll walk you through how it works and help you decide if it’s the right move for you.
Can you help me figure out if debt consolidation is right for me?
Absolutely! We’ll look at your current debts, chat through your goals, and give you clear advice on whether consolidating could help you save money or reduce stress.
Do you help set up debt consolidation loans?
We don’t arrange the loans directly, but we’ll guide you on your options and refer you to the right lenders if it looks like the right fit.
First Home Buyers
What’s the first step to getting a home loan?
Start with a chat! We’ll go over your finances, explain your options, and help you get pre-approved, so you can start house-hunting with confidence.
How do I know if I’m eligible for a first home loan?
If you’ve never owned property (or haven’t in a while), and you’ve got a steady income and a deposit, you’re likely in the running. We’ll check the fine print so you don’t have to.
Can I use my KiwiSaver to buy my first home?
Absolutely! If you’ve been contributing for at least three years, you might be able to put your KiwiSaver towards your deposit. We’ll help you figure out how much you can use, and what’s off-limits.
How much deposit do I really need?
The magic number is usually 20%, but there are ways to buy with less. If you’re a first home buyer able to use the First Home Loan, you’ll only need about 5%. We’ll show you what your options are, and how to make your deposit go further.
Mortgages
How can a mortgage adviser help me?
Getting a mortgage isn’t just about picking a loan, it’s about finding the right one for your situation. We compare lenders, explain your options, handle the paperwork, and negotiate on your behalf, making the whole process simple and stress-free.
Do I have to pay for mortgage advice?
In most cases, no! We’re usually paid by the lender, so our mortgage advice won’t cost you a thing. If a fee ever applies, we’ll be upfront about it from the start, no surprises.
What happens if I still have a mortgage when I retire?
If you’re heading towards retirement with a mortgage, don’t stress. We can help you look at refinancing, restructuring, or planning a strategy to pay it off in a way that works for you.
How often should I review my mortgage?
It’s a good idea to check in every year, or sooner if interest rates change, your income shifts, or your goals evolve. We can review your loan to make sure it’s still the best fit.
What’s the best way to pay off my mortgage faster?
Small changes can make a big difference! We can show you ways to reduce interest, tweak your repayments, and get you mortgage-free sooner.
Can I still get a mortgage if I’m self-employed?
Yes! It can be a little trickier than for salaried employees, but we work with lenders who understand self-employed income and can help find the right option for you.
Refinancing
What’s the benefit of refinancing my mortgage?
Refinancing can help you get a better interest rate, lower your repayments, or access equity for renovations or investments. If your current loan isn’t working for you anymore, we can help you explore your options.
Can you help with budgeting and managing my money?
Absolutely! Whether you want to get your spending under control, save more, or plan for the future, we can help you build a financial plan that fits your life.
Can you help me save on legal costs when refinancing?
Yep, we sure can. Some banks charge legal fees when discharging your mortgage during a refinance, but there are often ways to reduce or even avoid those costs. We’ll talk you through your options and help you ask the right questions to avoid fees.
Investments
Do you help with investment property loans?
Yes! Whether you’re buying your first investment property or growing your portfolio, we’ll help you secure financing with the right structure for your long-term goals.
Can you help me invest to prepare for retirement?
Totally. Whether you’re decades away or it’s creeping up fast, we’ll help you build an investment strategy that makes your retirement goals actually achievable. Think less guesswork, more growing your wealth with confidence.
Can you help me find the best property or shares to invest in?
Of course! We’ll help you figure out what type of investments suit your goals, timeline, and risk comfort.
Financial Planning
Why should I go through an adviser instead of just talking to my bank?
Banks only offer their own products, while we compare options from multiple lenders to find a deal that suits you. Plus, we handle the admin, chase up lenders, and make the process as smooth as possible.
How much do I need to retire comfortably?
That depends on your lifestyle, but a solid financial plan can help you make sure you have enough. We’ll work with you to create a strategy that supports your retirement goals. For more information, check out our resources page.
Can you help me invest to prepare for retirement?
Totally. Whether you’re decades away or it’s creeping up fast, we’ll help you build an investment strategy that makes your retirement goals actually achievable. Think less guesswork, more growing your wealth with confidence.
