RNZ reports Kāinga Ora’s First Home Loan insurance premium will rise from 0.5% to 1.2% on applications from July 1, 2025, as the government ends its contribution under Budget 2025—saving $17.9 million annually. The scheme allows first-home buyers to purchase with just a 5% deposit, bypassing standard LVR restrictions and often avoiding low-equity fees. The premium hike means a $550,000 loan’s cost could rise from $2,750 to $6,600, either paid upfront or added to the mortgage. Though the change was poorly communicated, Jeremy Andrews of Key Mortgages says the scheme remains valuable due to one-off fees and flexible approval options.
Bank turnaround times have dropped from weeks to days. Jeremy Andrews of Key Mortgages tells TMM Online what that signals about the current mortgage market.
Global uncertainty is pushing interest rates up. Key Mortgages director Jeremy Andrews tells OneRoof why fixing for two years makes sense right now - and why the window won't stay open long.
The Otago Times describes a Dunedin woman with $90,000 in KiwiSaver still can't buy a home in part due to strict asset caps. Key Mortgages explains when KiwiSaver can help second-chance buyers.
RNZ asked Jeremy Andrews of Key Mortgages whether first home buyers are better off making extra regular repayments or saving up a lump sum. Getting it right could save years off your total mortgage.
Key Mortgages advise 1news how homeowners could significantly reduce long-term mortgage interest by making simple repayment adjustments and reviewing loan structure regularly.
Key Mortgages comments with Tony Alexander and TMM Online the prospect of whether rising interest rates and global tensions are prompting a more cautious approach from buyers. Is mortgage demand softening as households take time to reassess affordability and market conditions?
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