The wealth transfer conundrum facing New Zealand is staggering. Billions in assets will soon pass from aging baby boomers to their children—most often landing in the hands of eldest daughters who frequently lack financial literacy or guidance. This reality sits at the heart of our latest conversation about the critical need for more women in financial advising.

We're thrilled to share the successful launch of Women in Financial Advice under the Financial Advice New Zealand umbrella, which held its first Wellington meeting with three times the expected attendance. Women from across the financial spectrum—mortgage specialists, insurance advisors, financial planners, corporate representatives, and independent practitioners—came together to build a supportive professional community. The gathering even inspired a former stay-at-home mum currently pursuing her Level 5 certification who questioned whether she could succeed in the industry after 15 years away from the workforce.

Women bring unique strengths to financial advising that complement traditional approaches. The natural empathy and exceptional multitasking abilities many women possess create powerful advantages in building client relationships and understanding complex needs. We share a remarkable story of balancing career ambitions with family responsibilities—launching a financial advice franchise with a five-month-old baby and ultimately raising four children without external childcare while building a successful practice. This flexibility makes financial advising particularly suitable for women seeking careers that accommodate family priorities.

For women contemplating their next professional chapter, especially those in physically demanding fields like nursing or beauty therapy, financial advising offers an intellectually stimulating alternative that leverages their existing relationship skills. The Women in Financial Advice group meets monthly at Wellington's Chapman Taylor, creating a supportive environment for anyone interested in promoting gender diversity in financial services. While women-led, the group warmly welcomes male advisors wanting to better support female colleagues or clients.

Want to join the movement transforming financial advice in New Zealand? Connect with us at the next meeting on Thursday, August 21st at 10am. Your perspective, whether as a practitioner, industry supporter, or someone curious about financial advising as a career, will enrich our community and help more New Zealanders access the guidance they deserve.

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What does it take to disrupt an industry with trust issues? Michael Seymour, owner of Tall Poppy Real Estate, takes us behind the scenes of his remarkable journey from reluctant pharmacy student to revolutionary business leader.

Michael's story begins with his mother secretly enrolling him in pharmacy school, setting him on a path that would eventually lead to owning 44 pharmacies across New Zealand. But it was his discovery about himself - that he was fundamentally "unemployable" by others with his questioning nature and drive to improve systems - that shaped his entrepreneurial approach.

The heart of our conversation explores the real estate industry's fundamental problems. When Michael discovered real estate agents ranked just above sex workers in public trust despite handling people's largest assets, he knew something needed to change. "It's incongruous to me that such a massive thing, professionalism and the asset would be diminished to being non-trustworthy," he explains with characteristic candor.

What makes Tall Poppy different isn't just their pricing model - though their shift from a flat fee to a transparent tiered structure counterintuitively increased their business. It's their entire approach. Rather than following the traditional model where agents compete internally for commissions, they've created a collaborative "list and sell" system. Their upcoming technology platform will bring unprecedented transparency to the entire process, letting buyers make offers directly online without the mystery that pervades typical real estate transactions.

Michael's wisdom about perseverance resonates throughout our talk. "Everything's achievable if you know you can do it and you've got the tenacity," he shares. "The problem that a lot of people have are that when the barriers get in the way, they don't stand for long enough through the journey."

Listen now to discover how Michael's people-first philosophy and commitment to transparency is reshaping real estate, and pick up valuable insights about building businesses that generate both success and happiness.

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Feeling the winter chill while your wallet feels the burn of skyrocketing gas prices? You're not alone. This eye-opening conversation dives into the reality many Kiwi homeowners face with traditional gas water heating systems – from the shock of cold showers when bottled gas runs dry to the frustration of waiting weeks for gas deliveries.

We explore the compelling alternative of heat pump hot water systems, a technology that's revolutionising home energy efficiency across New Zealand. These remarkable systems can heat ten times more water than conventional methods while using less power – a win-win for comfort and cost-saving. With units available from major retailers like Bunnings for $6,000-$8,000 plus installation, the initial investment might seem steep. However, the financial equation becomes much more attractive when you consider the potential to recover costs within just two years through energy savings.

The conversation takes an even more interesting turn when we discuss the special green home loans currently offered by many New Zealand banks. These loans feature incredibly low interest rates – some as low as 0% or 1% – specifically designed to help homeowners make energy-efficient upgrades. With natural gas resources predicted to diminish over the next few decades (leading to even higher prices), now might be the perfect time to future-proof your home's hot water system. Ready to say goodbye to unexpected cold showers and hello to efficient, reliable hot water? Explore your options today and see if a heat pump hot water system could be right for your home.

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Breaking free from financial hardship takes more than just hard work—it requires the right mindset, strategic thinking, and sometimes a little maternal wisdom. Brett Trilford's journey from growing up in a benefit-dependent household to owning multiple successful businesses showcases exactly how this transformation happens.

Brett's childhood was defined by financial constraints. His single mother suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and relied on government assistance while raising Brett and his sister in a house that, while located on Kapiti Coast's million-dollar beachfront, lacked basic comforts like carpet and heating. Their family car sprouted mushrooms from water leaks, and rust holes were patched over rather than properly repaired. Yet Brett recalls this time with surprising fondness, noting it was simply his "normal."

A pivotal moment came when Brett, naturally artistic and offered a scholarship to pursue painting, received straightforward advice from his mother that changed his trajectory: "Name one rich artist... now name one poor plumber." Unable to answer either question satisfactorily, Brett chose the trade route—a decision he credits with enabling his financial independence. Through years of difficult employment situations, Brett perfected his craft, specialized in gas fitting and plumbing, and eventually launched his own business in 2020. Success followed, allowing him to start a second venture specializing in drain unblocking, aptly named "Blockbusters."

What makes Brett's approach to business and money management so effective is his balanced perspective. He values providing quality service and building community relationships over rapid expansion. He treats his employees with flexibility and respect, understanding that family matters take precedence over work. When investing in rental properties, he applies lessons from his own experience as a tenant, allowing pets and giving renters freedom to make the space their own.

Brett's philosophy is simple yet profound: money is an amplifier of who you already are. For those with good intentions, financial success enables greater positive impact. His story demonstrates that with determination, sacrifice, and the willingness to learn from others' successes, anyone can break generational cycles of financial hardship.

Want to hear more inspiring stories of financial transformation? Subscribe to the Home Loan Hub for conversations that help you navigate your own path to financial freedom.

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Looking to buy a home but feeling unsure about the current market? This candid conversation between Zebenisa and James Buchanan unpacks fresh insights from ANZ Bank's latest economic forecast that might just change your perspective on property investment during economic uncertainty.

James shares valuable insights from an ANZ economist webinar, revealing that we can expect three more OCR cuts by February, potentially bringing rates down to 2.5%. This is excellent news for mortgage holders and prospective buyers alike. While inflation remains a concern, particularly in areas like council rates and utility bills that aren't affected by OCR changes, the overall economic outlook suggests now might be an ideal time to enter the property market.

What's particularly fascinating is the current bottleneck in the market – numerous potential buyers with pre-approvals and healthy KiwiSaver deposits are hesitating due to economic jitters. Those moving forward tend to be people tired of renting uncertainties. For first-home buyers, this presents a unique opportunity with lower competition and stable prices predicted for the remainder of the year. The conversation takes an interesting turn when discussing long-term property investment strategies, including buying before moving overseas and renting your property while earning in stronger currencies. Several real-world examples highlight how this approach has benefited Kiwis working in places like Hong Kong, while cautioning against the opportunity cost of waiting decades to enter the market.

Ready to explore your options in this buyer's market? Connect with a mortgage broker sooner rather than later to understand your position, even if you're not quite ready to buy. Remember – property investment is a long-term game, and current conditions offer an opportunity that may not last indefinitely. Share your thoughts on today's market conditions or reach out with your property questions!

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What happens when you die without a will? The consequences can be devastating for those you leave behind. In this eye-opening conversation with returning guest Tracey Pavan, we unpack the critical importance of proper estate planning and the unexpected legal pitfalls that can trap even the most well-intentioned families.

Tracey shares shocking revelations about how marriage automatically revokes existing wills unless specific language is included, leaving many couples mistakenly believing they're protected when they're actually intestate. We explore a heartbreaking real-life case where a mother's death without a will resulted in her insurance payout going to her estranged husband rather than benefiting her children as she would have intended.

The discussion delves into the practical realities of intestacy - from the complex court applications required to the surprising legal formulas that determine who gets what when you die without a will. Did you know your spouse doesn't automatically receive everything? Instead, they get the first $155,000 plus one-third of remaining assets, while your children receive two-thirds - potentially creating financial hardship during an already difficult time.

We also address crucial considerations for parents: naming guardians for minor children, handling blended family situations, and ensuring your wishes are clearly documented. With will preparation starting around $350 - far less than the cost of dying intestate - there's simply no excuse for postponing this essential legal document.

Whether you're newly married, recently separated, caring for dependents with special needs, or simply want to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, this episode provides vital information everyone needs to properly protect their loved ones. Listen now and take the first step toward peace of mind knowing you've properly provided for those who matter most.

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Starting fresh as a single father of twin boys, Jordan Holmes never thought homeownership was within his reach. After growing up with constant relocations across the UK before settling in New Zealand, Jordan craved stability—not just for himself, but for his children. "Having that instability, I've noticed later in life how it really affected me," he shares with raw honesty.

The path to property ownership wasn't straightforward. After feeling dismissed by previous mortgage brokers, Jordan finally connected with someone who took his dreams seriously. What followed was nothing short of miraculous. From finding his dream character home to securing loan approval and completing the purchase, everything fell into place with unprecedented speed. "I was expecting this process to last a month," Jordan reflects, still amazed at how quickly his life transformed.

What truly shines through our conversation is the profound emotional impact of homeownership. The simple freedoms—letting his sons paint their bedroom walls, hosting birthday parties with bouncy castles in the backyard, planning tree houses and bike ramps—represent a fundamental shift in Jordan's sense of autonomy and belonging. "You can't do that in a rental," he points out. "Now I can do what I want to do."

For other single parents who might think property ownership is out of reach, Jordan's message is powerfully simple: "Just give it a go. You don't know until you try." Sometimes all it takes are small financial adjustments and the right guidance to turn what seems impossible into reality within months. His journey from uncertainty to opportunity showcases how homeownership isn't just about property—it's about creating the stability and security every family deserves.

Listen to Jordan's inspiring story and discover how taking that first step might open doors you never imagined possible for you and your family.

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A powerful shift is happening in the property market. Single women are stepping forward to claim their place as homeowners in unprecedented numbers. This isn't just a fleeting trend—it represents a fundamental change in how women view their financial capabilities and independence.

In this revealing conversation, we share our recent experience helping numerous single women purchase homes, many of whom initially doubted their ability to do so without a partner. We explore the fascinating dynamics we've witnessed over years in the industry: women often drive household financial decisions from behind the scenes while men take the public-facing role. When relationships end, many women don't immediately recognize that they've actually been managing finances all along and are perfectly capable of handling property purchases independently.

The contrast between women's natural caution and men's inherent confidence creates different approaches to homeownership. We discuss how reframing property ownership as "being queen of your own palace" has helped numerous clients overcome self-doubt. Most excitingly, we announce our newly released guide specifically designed for women navigating property matters during separation. This practical resource provides actionable steps across three critical phases: preparing for separation, managing the process, and rebuilding afterward.

Ready to take control of your property journey? Whether you're going through a major life transition or simply want to explore homeownership as a single woman, we're here to provide the knowledge and support you need. Connect with us to download your free separation guide or schedule a consultation to discuss your unique situation.

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Frustration abounds in today's mortgage lending environment. Both mortgage advisors and home buyers alike are feeling the strain of extended processing times and communication gaps. While some potential homeowners believe going directly to the bank offers a faster path to property ownership, the reality is considerably more nuanced.

When comparing the value of mortgage advisors versus direct bank engagement, it's important to understand what happens beyond the pre-approval. As we share in this episode, advisors don't just process paperwork—we provide comprehensive support throughout your entire property journey. We become your therapists, counsellors, real estate consultants, and financial guides all wrapped into one dedicated professional relationship.

The current lending landscape presents unique challenges. Applications that previously took days now extend to weeks due to staffing shortages in bank broker hubs struggling to manage increased volumes. However, even when direct bank applications appear faster, they often lack the personalised guidance that proves crucial for successful home purchasing. We share a poignant example of a first-time buyer in her fifties who secured bank pre-approval but found herself completely lost about what to do next—highlighting the significant gap between transaction-focused banking and relationship-based advising.

Mortgage advisors operate in one of New Zealand's most heavily regulated financial sectors, requiring rigorous certification and continuous professional development—ensuring you receive expert guidance that many bank representatives are actually restricted from providing under current regulations. While processing times may temporarily frustrate everyone involved, the comprehensive support, optimised loan structures, and long-term financial partnership we offer continue to provide immeasurable value throughout your homeownership journey. The ultimate question isn't about speed alone, but about what kind of home buying experience you want, and who you want supporting you through one of life's biggest financial decisions.

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Fresh from a 12-day adventure in Japan, mortgage expert Khouanchai returns to discuss New Zealand's economic landscape with a focus on the housing market. We kick off with travel tales – navigating Japan's epic train systems and comparing living costs between Japan and New Zealand – before diving into the financial matters that concern Kiwi homeowners.

The Reserve Bank's recent decision to hold the Official Cash Rate at 3.25% signals their cautious approach to balancing inflation concerns with economic growth. What does this mean for your mortgage? With competitive rates still available – one-year terms at 4.85%, three-year terms at 4.99%, and special first-home buyer rates as low as 4.29% – there's room for strategic planning. We share insights on whether to fix or float your mortgage in the current climate, with an emphasis on personalised advice rather than crystal ball predictions.

Perhaps most sobering is our discussion on property value decreases, with the Lower Hutt region experiencing a staggering 20% drop. We share a personal account of facing a 14% value decline between purchase and settlement, exploring the challenges this creates for buyers without additional equity sources. The conversation highlights a reality many Kiwis face: potential settlement shortfalls that can reach hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Our conversation wraps with reflections on the human side of mortgage lending. Unlike traditional banking environments, we value building meaningful client relationships that allow us to understand families' complete financial pictures and provide guidance through life's unexpected turns. If you're navigating property purchases or refinancing in today's changing market, connect with a mortgage advisor who can help you prepare for challenges and identify opportunities amid the uncertainty.

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