Advice Knight

Heard of LVR but not quite sure what it means for you?

LVR (Loan-to-Value Ratio) is a key factor banks use when deciding your home loan. In simple terms, it’s the percentage of the property value you’re borrowing. The lower your LVR, the less risk for the bank — and often the better your options.

For example, if you’re buying a $800,000 home with a $160,000 deposit, your LVR is 80%. This unlocks sharper rates and avoids extra costs like low equity margins.

With lending rules and bank policies constantly shifting, understanding your LVR can be the difference between getting approved — or not.

If you’re unsure where you sit, it’s worth checking before you start house hunting.

Is your KiwiSaver still working as hard as you are? 💰 💪

With winter here, now is a great time to take a fresh look at your KiwiSaver.

Our free annual KiwiSaver review gives you a chance to make sure it is still working for your goals, check how your balance is tracking, see whether your fund type still fits your risk and timeline, and explore ways you could grow your savings more effectively over time.

If you’d like to book a review, simply click the ‘KiwiSaver Review’ link on our profile and we’ll get in touch to arrange a time that suits you.

Even if you’re not ready for a full review, a quick chat with an adviser can still give you useful insights into your fund performance and highlight any changes you might want to consider since your last conversation.

Is your KiwiSaver still working as hard as you are? 💰 💪

With winter here, now is a great time to take a fresh look at your KiwiSaver.

Our free annual KiwiSaver review gives you a chance to make sure it is still working for your goals, check how your balance is tracking, see whether your fund type still fits your risk and timeline, and explore ways you could grow your savings more effectively over time.

If you’d like to book a review, simply visit: https://www.adviceknight.co.nz/kiwisaver-review or send us an email and we'll be in touch.

Even if you’re not ready for a full review, a quick chat with an adviser can still give you useful insights into your fund performance and highlight any changes you might want to consider since your last conversation.

Ready to make your next move? For a limited time, you could receive a 1% cash contribution for new lending with select main banks.

Whether you are buying your first home, upgrading, or refinancing, this could mean extra cash back in your pocket to help with moving costs, renovations, or simply getting ahead faster. With the right structure and advice, small advantages like this can make a big difference over time.

Get in touch today to see if you qualify and how we can tailor your lending to suit your goals.

Terms and conditions apply, available for a limited time.

📢 OCR Update: No Change Today

The Reserve Bank has held the Official Cash Rate at 2.25%.

For homeowners, that means we’re still in a period where rates are relatively stable, but the direction ahead will depend on how inflation and the economy track from here.

If your fixed rate is coming up for renewal, now is a good time to review your options and make sure your structure still suits your goals.

Every mortgage is different — and the right strategy can make a big difference over time.

If you’d like a second opinion on your home loan, we’re here to help.

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Renovating? Take advantage of the green loans available.

If you are planning upgrades like insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, or double glazing, you could access lending at significantly reduced interest rates to help fund it.

It is a smarter way to renovate, improve your home’s comfort, and potentially lower your ongoing power costs, without stretching your budget on higher interest lending.

Terms and conditions apply. We can help you explore what options are available and structure it the right way from the start.

Before you start your reno, have a chat with us.

Are you paying more interest than you need to on your mortgage?

Here are 6 smart strategies to pay your mortgage off faster:

1. Keep repayments the same when rates drop
Refixing to a lower rate? Don’t lower your repayments. That extra goes straight to reducing your principal — saving time and interest.

2. Pay more than the minimum
Even a small increase can make a big difference. An extra $200/month could shave years off your loan.

3. Switch to fortnightly payments
Split your monthly repayment in half and pay every 2 weeks — you’ll make extra repayments each year without noticing.

4. Round your repayments up
Rounding up (e.g. $3,188 → $3,250) is a simple way to chip away at your loan faster.

5. Use lump sums wisely
Bonuses or extra cash? Putting it toward your loan can significantly reduce interest — just watch fixed rate limits.

6. Get your loan structure right
The right setup can give you flexibility and help you pay less interest over time.

Small changes = big long-term wins.

Get in touch if you want to review your structure, we’d love to help.

SHOULD YOU GO DIRECT TO THE BANK OR WORK WITH AN ADVISER?

Here’s the truth 👇

Going directly to your bank might feel easy in terms of a quick starting point but here’s the catch — they can only offer their products, you do all the admin, and you deal with a new person every time.

As advisers, we work for you, not the bank.

That means:
• Access to multiple lenders, not just one
• Advice tailored to your situation and goals
• Help structuring your loan the right way (this can save you thousands over time)
• Someone to negotiate on your behalf

Think of it like this:
Going direct is like shopping at one store.
Working with an adviser is like having someone compare the whole market for you.
And the best part? In on our case, there’s no cost to you.

If you want clarity, options, and a strategy — having the right guide makes all the difference.

📩 DM us or get in touch to chat – we look forward to discussing your options.
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Ever thought about giving your kids a financial head start before they even earn their first dollar?

KiwiSaver isn’t just for adults. Starting early means time does the heavy lifting, thanks to compound growth. Even small contributions today can turn into something meaningful by the time they’re ready for their first home.

No minimum age. No pressure to contribute regularly. Just a simple way to set them up for the future.

We help parents make smart, practical money decisions for their families—without the jargon. Message us to find out how to get your child started with KiwiSaver and we’ll help you select the best provider and fund.

🛠️ Ready to fall in love with your home again?

If you’ve been dreaming of a new kitchen, a bathroom refresh, or finally tackling that landscaping, then get in touch to learn more about the 2.5%* renovation loan available at one of NZ’s main lenders. 🏡✨

DM us "RENO" or click the link in our bio to book a free chat with our team. Let’s make that renovation reality!

*Fixed for 3 years. Terms and conditions apply.

Ready to start? Get in touch to organise a free chat with our team. Let’s make that renovation reality!