Build your nest egg by investing in property
Owning investment property isn't like winning lotto. The not-so-secret truth is that investors put a lot of energy into making their portfolio work for them.
Having the right advice and strategy is key. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned investor, we're here to help.
Why talk to Squirrel about investing in property?
It’s hard to play a game where the rules change as often as the weather, so keeping up with any credit policies is crucial. We keep our paw on the pulse and whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your empire (evil or otherwise), with Squirrel you'll get:
- Better mortgage rates
- Advice from experienced property experts
- More options with access to bank and non-bank lending
- Support if things don't go your way
Not sure where to begin?
At Squirrel we get to know you, your portfolio and your strategyThis makes everything that little bit easier (and cheaper)
This makes everything that little bit easier (and cheaper)
Expert advice
Our team of experts have first-hand experience in property investing, and love chewing the fat about property.
More lending options
Part of what makes us unique is we've got relationships with all the major banks, non-banks, and access to over 5,000 P2P lenders. More options means a better deal.
Unbiased, personalised advice
Our Mortgage Advisers are paid the same regardless of which lender they recommend, so the only motivation they have is to make you better off.
Save money
Having the right investing strategy can save you a packet. It costs nothing to sit down with us, come up with a plan and bounce ideas around.
Get a Squirrel broker on your team now
Let us help you get the right investing strategy in place.
More lenders means more choices
And more choices means better outcomes for you
Is your bank still the right fit for you?
Traditionally, going to the main banks for lending has always been a no-brainer. But fitting into the 'bank's box' and accessing their funds has become trickier over time.
New Zealand has lots of well-established non-banks that are hugely market competitive, more approachable and more open to lending.
Their interest rates may generally be higher, but under current credit conditions, investors must understand that accessing money is going to come at a slightly higher cost.
Growing your portfolio 101:
Some tips and tricks to keep you on the straight and narrow.
Get the Squirrel guide to property investing
We've put together a printable PDF packed with helpful information, tips and tricks to get you on your way. Sign up to get it delivered straight to your inbox.
It pays to keep a close eye on what interest rates are up to.
What's happening with interest rates?
Mortgage interest rates seem to change with the wind so it pays to stay up to date. Because when we’re talking hundreds of thousands of dollars, a fraction of a percent change in interest or repayment rates can save you a packet. This could mean retiring to your super yacht a few years earlier than planned.
Let's get the ball rolling
Fill in our no-obligation online form and we’ll contact you with next steps. Or give us a call on 0800 21 22 30 to speak with one of the team right away.
Stay on top of the latest
Before you get carried away with visions of taking over the world, soak up all the knowledge you can (and impress your friends with how clever you are).
Why "passive" property investment just won't cut it in the new world order
"Buy anything and wait" has been all the strategy you needed to make money in property over the last few decades. But as the world enters an extended period of low growth, doing well as a property investor will require a more active approach.
Past performance doesn't guarantee future returns (now, more than ever)
Until recently, falling interest rates meant that no matter what you were investing in you almost couldn't go wrong... Asset prices across the board just kept going up. But those lucrative days are behind us.
Why planning ahead is a must for property investors amidst the cashflow crunch
Ballooning costs and tougher servicing requirements are causing a lot of headaches for property investors these days, and planning ahead has never been more important.
Property Development - doing a subdivision
The most logical place to start when dipping your toes into the property development space is subdividing a property. But although it might be a logical place to start, it’s not going to be easy or cheap. We share our tips and valuable lessons from the University of Life below.
Subdividing a property is a great way to instantly add value, but it’s expensive.
Councils will see you as a way to cover their budget shortfall with a “development contribution.” These fees can vary significantly depending on the council and location — ranging from as low as $20,000 to as high as $100,000. It’s crucial to accurately capture these costs in your feasibility study, as they have a significant impact on how much you should pay for undeveloped land.
Councils and utility providers may also require you to cover infrastructure upgrades. These could include installing a transformer, upgrading pipes or relocating a power pole.
You might also face development contributions that are often referred to as an “infrastructure charge.” For example, Watercare typically charges between $11,000 and $40,000 per household to connect water and wastewater services.
What’s involved in subdividing a property?
To subdivide a property, first you need to:
- Understand what you can and cannot do according to council zoning rules
- Do a land survey.
When looking at a property you could subdivide, consider:
- How steep is the section?
- Is the section in the front or back? If it’s on a back section, how long is the drive?
- Is the place you’ll have to dig on rock or soil?
- Is there already drainage, water, storm water and power nearby?
Talk to us about your investing plans
Let us help supercharge your strategy.
Don’t just take our word for it
Anonymous
New Zealand
Excellent
Peter
New Zealand
Shiva was amazing, this process was so so simple, so much better than direct with the bank. Thanks
CJ
New Zealand
Dealing with Brad was excellent; he has provided great advice, he is a clear communicator, and has saved us money. We are already working on another refinance with Brad. Cheers Brad/Squirrel!
Richard C
New Zealand
Responsiveness and knowledgeable!