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Views from the treehouse
Here you'll find a well-rounded set of opinions from various writers. We welcome alternative views so in line with our philosophy of fairness, we will air other thought-provoking viewpoints here from our valued and experienced friends around the globe as well as our own news and views.
Featured
NZ property market update – June 2024
Between an OCR announcement, Budget 2024, and a bunch of other changes, it's been a huge month in New Zealand's property market. Squirrel founder, JB, explains what's been happening — and what it means for Kiwi homeowners - in his latest property market update.
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Rodney’s Ravings: God was having an off moment when he decided we needed economic forecasters
Every quarter, the NZIER surveys a bunch of economic forecasters—from some of our largest financial institutions—to get their predictions of what's in store for our economy. Now, we know even the experts get it wrong sometimes, but how can they be getting it *this* wrong?
What is non-bank lending, and is it right for me?
New Zealand's non-bank sector has grown rapidly in recent years, offering great alternatives to traditional lending options - especially for good borrowers who don't fit bank criteria. Here's what you need to know about the different non-bank loan options out there.
Could relocatable homes be right for your next development project?
With the cost of construction as high as it is, more and more developers are finding relocatable homes to be a really affordable alternative to building new. Here's what you need to know if you're thinking about using relocatables for your next development project.
Rodney's Ravings: NZ interest rates should fall ahead of US rates
Historically, and particularly in the last few years, what happens with NZ interest rates has been really closely tied to what's happening with US rates. But with NZ's economy doing it really tough right now, guest writer Rodney Dickens thinks that's about to change.
What do the new DTI limits mean for me?
Starting on the 1st July 2024, new DTI rules will come into effect in New Zealand, and just like with any new banking regulation they'll bring with them big changes for different parts of the housing market. So here's how DTIs could impact you.
Opinion: The RBNZ has crossed a line with its new DTI limits
Ask the RBNZ, and it'll tell you it's putting DTIs in place to address concerns around affordability, and keep our financial system nice and stable. But Squirrel founder, JB, reckons the new rules are a ruse for the RBNZ to meddle where it shouldn't be - in wider housing policy.
Property investors: Got your mortgage with a non-bank? This golden opportunity could save you thousands
For the first time in a long time, NZ's main banks have opened their books to like-for-like refinances - a.k.a. refinances from non-bank lenders. If you're with a non-bank, and heading for a refix sometime soon, it could be an opportunity to save big on interest rates.
The challenges facing property developers in the current market
With house prices down and construction costs up, current market conditions have the potential to cause real headaches for developers alike. If you're embarking on a development project any time soon, here are the key challenges to keep in mind.
Over and out: What scrapping the Kāinga Ora First Home Grant means for first home buyers
It's official. Kāinga Ora's First Home Grant scheme has got the cut, in favour of dedicating more funds to social housing. So what does the move mean for first home buyers?
Chance of rain — and falling house prices?
The Reserve bank has grown more concerned about the pace with which inflation is falling in New Zealand, and have slightly delayed their pick for when they cut the official cash rate from the middle of 2025 into the second half. But will there be a chance that house prices will start falling while the OCR stays stuck at 5.50%?
Why the Reserve Bank's inflation forecast could spell trouble for NZ's economy
Despite plenty of economic data showing enough damage has been done, the RBNZ is adamant rate falls won't be on the cards until 2025. And the reason for that, it turns out, is all down to a single number in the RBNZ's latest inflation forecast.
Thinking of buying a commercial property for your business? Here’s what you need to know
If you own your own business, chances are you've stopped to wonder at some point whether it's worth investing in your own premises. Here's what you need to know if you're thinking about buying owner-occupied commercial property.
