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Lending Blog
Refinance and Get 1.5% Cashback

Refinance and Get 1.5% Cashback

At Smartmortgages.co.nz Limited, we specialise in mortgage refinancing and are dedicated to helping clients secure better lending terms, more competitive interest rates, and meaningful financial savings. 

Getting To Know Your Mortgage Adviser Cong Nguyen

Getting To Know Your Mortgage Adviser Cong Nguyen

From my last name, you can easily tell I am a Vietnamese. In fact, almost 40% of Vietnamese people share the same surname. True story: the other week, I submitted a mortgage application for a client from Wellington who also happened to be a “Nguyen.” The bank came back and asked me to clarify our “personal relationship.” My answer? I sent them the statistic. (For the record, my parents also had the same surname before marriage — but don’t worry, they weren’t closely related. In Vietnam, it’s quite common!)

The Inspiring First Home Journey of Maria and Liduvina

The Inspiring First Home Journey of Maria and Liduvina

11 September, 2025 will forever be a special date for sisters Maria and Liduvina: the day they turned their long-held dream of owning a first home in New Zealand into reality.

Refinance With No Legal Cost

Refinance With No Legal Cost

Are you considering switching banks to take advantage of a cashback offer as your fixed home loan rate comes to an end — but worried about the legal costs involved?

Q&A with Our “No Legal Cost” Refinancing Client – Alwyn Jones

Q&A with Our “No Legal Cost” Refinancing Client – Alwyn Jones

At Smartmortgages.co.nz Limited, we take pride in helping our clients achieve better outcomes with their lending. Recently, we assisted Alwyn Jones with refinancing his investment properties. During the process, one of his loans qualified for a lender package that covered the legal transfer costs: saving him from paying solicitor fees for that portion of the refinance.

You’ve Got Pre-Approval – What Happens Next?

You’ve Got Pre-Approval – What Happens Next?

Congratulations on your pre-approval! Securing pre-approval from the bank is an important milestone in your home-buying journey. It means you are one step closer to owning your new home. But what comes next? Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process with confidence.

The First Home Buying Journey: From Dream to Keys

The First Home Buying Journey: From Dream to Keys

Buying your first home is an exciting yet complex journey. With so many steps involved, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The power of 20% deposit

The power of 20% deposit

Many First Home Buyers have asked me why they need to save up 20% deposit when others can get a mortgage approved with just 5% or 10% only. Here’s why having a 20% deposit is a game-changer:

Upgrading Your Property: Buy/Sell or Sell/Buy?

Upgrading Your Property: Buy/Sell or Sell/Buy?

Buying a new home while selling your current one can be a daunting process. Do you sell first and then buy, or secure your next home before letting go of the current one? Each approach has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your financial situation, risk tolerance, and market conditions. Here are three options to consider when upgrading your property:

What is a Registered Valuation?

What is a Registered Valuation?

If you're buying or selling a home in New Zealand, understanding a registered valuation is important.

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