Interest.co.nz reports that Kiwibank, ANZ, and ASB have lowered their mortgage serviceability test rates following the Reserve Bank’s recent 50 basis point cut to the Official Cash Rate (OCR). This move increases borrowing capacity for home loan applicants. Kiwibank reduced its test rate from 7.5% to 7%, while ANZ and ASB lowered theirs to 7.25% and 7.3%, respectively.
Mortgage advisor Jeremy Andrews described these reductions as “quite significant,” noting that test rates were over 9% in 2023. However, debt-to-income (DTI) limits remain a constraint for some borrowers. Other banks, including BNZ, have yet to adjust their rates, while Westpac, TSB, and SBS have not disclosed their positions.
Key Mortgages suggests keeping up higher repayments following fixed mortgage rate to currently 4.49%. Repayments over a 20 year term are now similar to what peak market rates payments were over a 30-year loan term.
Jeremy chats with Andrew from NewsTalk ZB about OCR drops affecting mortgage market, turnaround times, and increasing demand.
Key Mortgages shares detail on how credit rating scores can impact your ability to borrow. Talk to us for more information on how to put your best foot forward with main banks
Kāinga Ora loan premium rises to 1.2% post July; Key Mortgages’ Jeremy Andrews says it’s still a good option for many first home buyers
Jeremy Andrews shares some tips and examples with RNZ where bad credit borrowers may still get loans with good explanations, equity, recent history.
Trump’s tariff war hit KiwiSaver balances, affecting first-home buyers' deposits, reports goodreturns.co.nz. Key Mortgages notes increased pressure on buyers and urges shifting to conservative funds and seeking advice to avoid further deposit setbacks amid Trump’s tariff war.
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