The HTL Group - Blog , MortgageThe HTL Group - Blog , Mortgagehttps://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/mortgageThu, 09 Apr 2026 19:19:35 +1000http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[What Investors need to know about refinancing in 2026]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/what-investors-need-to-know-about-refinancing-in-2026You may be closer to an investment property than you think. Learn how refinancing in 2026 could unlock new opportunities for investors.]]>

What Investors need to know about refinancing in 2026

If you own property (or you’ve been thinking about investing), 2026 could present more opportunity than you realise.

We’re seeing improving economic conditions and renewed confidence in the property market. But one of the biggest missed opportunities right now isn’t buying… it’s not reviewing your current mortgage structure.

Because in many cases, the ability to invest isn’t about earning more, it’s about structuring smarter.

Is your mortgage structure still right for 2026?


A lot can change in a few years:

  • Property values may have increased

  • Lending conditions have shifted

  • Your income or business performance may have improved

  • Interest rate environments have moved

But most people are still sitting on the same mortgage structure they set up years ago.

That structure might have been right then, but it may not be right now.

And more importantly, it could be limiting your ability to grow your portfolio.


The biggest misconception: "I can't afford to invest yet"

One of the most common things Serina hears from clients is:

“We’d love to buy an investment property… but we’re probably not in a position to.”

In reality, that’s often not the case.

Many clients come to Serina simply looking for a mortgage review or restructure, and through that process, discover they’re actually in a position to purchase an investment property sooner than they thought.

Not because they suddenly earn more.
But because their lending has been restructured in a smarter, more strategic way.


Why refinancing matters more than ever in 2026

With interest rates sitting lower and the market beginning to move again, timing matters.

Investors who review and position themselves now are often better placed to:

  • Act quickly on opportunities

  • Improve cashflow

  • Reduce unnecessary interest costs

  • Leverage equity more effectively

Waiting until the market peaks again can mean missing the window to act strategically.

Smart structuring options investors should be considering

Every investor’s situation is different, but there are a few key tools that can make a significant difference when used correctly:

Revolving Credit

Gives you flexibility to manage cashflow, park income, and reduce interest over time, while still having access to funds when needed.

Offset Accounts

Allows you to offset savings against your mortgage balance, reducing the interest you pay without locking funds away.

Loan splitting & structuring

Separating lending across properties or purposes can create clarity, flexibility, and better long-term control.

The key isn’t just using these tools, it’s using them in the right way, aligned to your long-term goals.

Serina's approach: no fluff, just strategy

Serina’s approach is simple:

No fluff. No sales pitch. Just the facts.

Every conversation starts with a full fact find, looking at:

  • Your current lending

  • Your income and financial position

  • Your short-term and long-term goals

From there, it’s about building a structure that supports where you want to go, not just where you are today.

This isn’t transactional. It’s about long-term planning and making informed decisions.

Could you be closer than you think?

If you haven’t reviewed your mortgage structure recently, there’s a good chance there are opportunities you haven’t uncovered yet.

Whether your goal is to:

  • Purchase your first investment property

  • Expand your portfolio

  • Improve your current lending position

The first step isn’t buying, it’s understanding what’s possible.

Start with a conversation

If you’re curious about what your current structure could be doing better, or whether you’re in a position to invest, Serina is always happy to have a straightforward, no-pressure conversation.

Get in touch with Serina at the HTL Group for a free mortgage review.


About Serina Nicholson, Mortgage Adviser
]]>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 12:08:10 +1300<![CDATA[Your First-Home Roadmap: 8 Smart Steps to Get Mortgage-Ready]]>https://www.thehtlgroup.co.nz/blogs/post/your-first-home-roadmapBuying your first home? Discover 8 smart steps to get mortgage-ready with advice from HTL’s Serina Nicholson. Download our free checklist today.]]>

Ready to buy your first home?
Download our First-Home Buyer’s Checklist and feel confident every step of the way.

Get My Free Checklist

Buying your first home is one of life’s biggest milestones, and with the right preparation, it doesn’t need to feel overwhelming. With some smart planning and the right support, you can step into your new home with confidence.

We sat down with HTL Mortgage Adviser Serina Nicholson to hear her best advice for first-home buyers. 

Here are eight steps to help you get mortgage-ready:

1. Start with your budget

Before you scroll through listings, take time to understand what you can afford. A clear budget helps you narrow your search and prevents disappointment later on.

2. Get pre-approval early

“Not getting a pre-approval is the biggest mistake I see,” says Serina. With a pre-approval in hand, you’ll know exactly how much you can spend, and you’ll be ready to act fast when the right property comes along.

3. Understand your deposit options

The good news? You don’t always need 20% saved.

- Some buyers may qualify for a First Home Loan with as little as 5%.

- For others, the deposit requirement could be 10 - 20%, depending on the lender.

Talking to an adviser will give you clarity on which options suit your situation.

4. Make KiwiSaver work for you

If you’ve been in KiwiSaver for three or more years, you may be able to withdraw your funds to help with your deposit. “KiwiSaver is how most Kiwis purchase their first home,” Serina explains.

5. Explore grants and incentives

Government-backed schemes like the First Home Loan can help you buy with less than 20% deposit while still accessing standard interest rates. Some banks even offer discounted rates for new builds. It pays to know what’s available.

6. Be prepared for upfront costs

It’s not just about the deposit. You’ll also need to budget for:

- Lawyer’s fees ($1,500–$3,000)

- LIM report ($350+)

- Builder’s report ($600+)

- Valuation ($1,000 if deposit <20%)

- Insurance ($150–$200 per month, depending on the property)

Having savings set aside for these will keep things stress-free.

7. Work with a mortgage adviser

Instead of navigating all the banks yourself, a mortgage adviser does the shopping around for you. “We look at the banks and pick the one that suits your situation,” says Serina. “One may say no, another may say yes, and we’ll fight to get you the best deal.”

8. Get advice early

Even if you’re not quite ready to buy tomorrow, talking to an adviser early gives you a clear path forward. “We’ll guide you depending on where you’re up to in your journey,” says Serina.

Take the next step…

Your first home is closer than you think. 

Click the button below to download our free First-Home Buyer’s Checklist to stay on track, and book a chat with HTL’s Mortgage Adviser, Serina Nicholson, today.

Download our free First-Home Buyer's Checklist
Contact Serina today to start your journey
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