With all of the commentary around interest rates and potential debt-to-income restrictions in the current mortgage market, it's worth mentioning that there are a few positives for both first home buyers and also investors.
Within the last month we've had some positive news around bank policy changes as follows:
For First Home Buyers: BNZ is lending up to 95% LVR for owner occupied purchases of existing properties. There are some terms and conditions around this, but it is a positive because it means we have a bank who is willing to go to this LVR for standard lending criteria (outside of Kainga Ora First Home Loan requirements). There are further Terms and Conditions but the main points to note are:
Other standard BNZ lending criteria will apply for loans, including high-LVR requirements.
For Property Investors: TSB is currently offering 10-year interest only loans for investment properties. This is longer than other banks who offer 5 years, then the option of extending this again subject to application/approval.
Again, the above is all subject to meeting standard lending criteria and T's & C's apply.
If either of these sound like they may be of interest to you - please feel free to get in touch.
Ryan Smuts
21 February 2024