Navigating your mortgage refix in 2025 doesn't have to be overwhelming. This expanded episode dives deeper into strategic approaches that could save you thousands, following up on our popular checklist episode that prompted numerous listener questions.
Timing is everything when it comes to mortgage decisions. Discovering your fixed term end date too late can mean automatically rolling onto high floating rates around 8%, costing hundreds extra per fortnight. Give yourself 6-8 weeks before your expiry date to explore options properly. And here's something crucial to remember: your bank's default refix offer is rarely their best. Those who negotiate—or have a mortgage advisor negotiate for them—often secure better rates that banks don't advertise upfront.
With economists predicting gradual rate decreases, many homeowners are rethinking traditional approaches. Rather than locking in long-term fixed rates at potentially market peaks, more clients are choosing shorter one or two-year terms to maintain flexibility. A particularly effective strategy is splitting your mortgage across different fixed periods—like fixing half for one year and half for two years. This creates a hedging effect, reducing your risk exposure while allowing you to respond more nimbly to market changes. It's a sophisticated approach your bank likely won't suggest unprompted.
Before making any decisions, run through our comprehensive checklist: assess your current financial situation and upcoming expenses, ensure you have an emergency buffer, consider major life changes on the horizon, compare offers across lenders, and honestly evaluate your risk comfort level. Your mortgage is likely your biggest financial commitment—it deserves careful consideration rather than a fear-based, one-click decision. Need personalized guidance? Message us for our free printable checklist or join our fortnightly Thursday webinars by commenting "webinar" for the link.

Send us a text

Support the show

Buy your first home in NZ Weekly Webinars

You thought it's not possible or the dream is too far away? Come to my webinar and I will show you, you are much closer to your dream, than you think you are!

Join Here - https://bit.ly/4m9SL72