Beryl’s Thoughts
In this blog I will share my opinions on the state of the market, trends and tips you can use to improve your financial knowledge and ability to improve your asset base. Whether you are a First home Buyer, Home owner or property investor you will find some gems.
Should You Go Directly to the Bank or Use a Mortgage Broker?
It’s one of the most common questions I hear from first home buyers. “Should I go straight to the bank, or should I use a mortgage broker?” After helping...
How to Stay Financially Resilient During Global Crisis
Global conflicts—like the ongoing tensions in the Middle East—can feel distant, but their impact is anything but. Rising fuel prices, increasing interest...
Why Everyone Needs a Will (Even If You Think You Don’t)
When most people hear the word “will,” they imagine something meant for the wealthy, the elderly, or those with complicated assets. But the truth is simple:...
Fixed vs. Variable Rate Mortgages: Which One is Right for You?
When you’re taking out a mortgage, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is whether to go for a fixed or variable interest rate. Each option has its own...
How to Refinance Your Mortgage
Refinancing your mortgage can be a smart financial move—especially in today’s ever-changing interest rate environment. Whether you're looking to reduce...
Pre-Approval vs. Pre-Qualification: What Kiwi Homebuyers Need to Know
When you're preparing to buy a home, you'll often hear two important terms: mortgage pre-approval and pre-qualification. While they might sound similar, they...
How to Improve Your Credit Score Before Applying for a Mortgage
Applying for a mortgage is a big financial step, especially in New Zealand’s competitive housing market. One of the most important things lenders consider is...
7 Essential Rules for Saving Money That Could Change Your Life
Saving money is more than just a financial habit—it’s a way to ensure financial security, reduce stress, and build wealth for the future. Whether you're new...
First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Buying your first home is an exciting yet challenging journey. From understanding the market to securing a mortgage, the process involves various steps that...
3 Things to Have in Your Estate Plan
As it turns out most people spend more time planning vacation spots and choosing their next car purchase than they do planning for the day they leave this...
How to Choose a Guardian for Your Children
Our children depend on us to be there for them, it’s a natural instinct to love and protect them and that’s exactly what we do every day. As responsible...
Getting Will-Ready: The Top 5 Things Every Couple Should Talk About
When it comes to making a Will and planning for the future, we totally get it—thinking about your partner suddenly not being around anymore is not fun to...
When is a Good Time to Update Your Will?
Writing and documenting your wishes in a Will is a major life event. But just like other important milestones, your opinions and wishes often change with time...
The Value in Having a Will at a Young Age
No one likes to think, let alone plan for when they will no longer be around, but it’s a reality that we all have to face. Many people only start thinking...
Threshold – Why You Need a Will Sooner Than You Think
If you’re sitting at home thinking that you don’t need a Will because you don’t have enough assets to bother, it might...