The Perils of Parental Lending
It has become increasingly difficult for first home buyers to enter the property market in New Zealand. The amount of deposit required in most regions has increased significantly, with house prices growing at a fast rate in comparison to peoples’ incomes. Banks have put tighter controls on low deposit lending and a flow on effect is large numbers of first home buyers purchasing properties with the help of their parents. This is usually by them either acting as a guarantor on the mortgage or advancing funds as a gift or a loan to help with the deposit.
Purchasing - finance and insurance
The first question we usually ask when assisting someone buying a property, whether residential or commercial, is - do you have the money available to purchase, and if you don’t are you able to borrow to finance the purchase?
Proposed changes to the 'Bright-line' test
The government is proposing to change the current timeframe for the ‘bright-line’ test for property from two years to five years.
Overseas Investment Act changes
Late last year parliament had its first reading of proposed changes to the Overseas Investment Act (“the Act”). Following consultation, a report is due back in parliament on the 30th of May.
Changes to LVR restrictions
ATTENTION FIRST HOME BUYERS AND INVESTORS. The dream of owning a home or investment property is about to become a little bit more of a reality, as LVR (loan-to-value ratio) lending limits are set to be relaxed.
