Author: Elliot Marlowe

What Is the Risk of Remortgage? Key Dangers and How to Avoid Them

What Is the Risk of Remortgage? Key Dangers and How to Avoid Them

Remortgaging can save money - or cost you tens of thousands. Learn the real risks in New Zealand: hidden fees, extended terms, equity traps, and credit score damage. Know when it's smart - and when to walk away.

Elliot Marlowe 8.01.2026
What Is the Downside of Buying Bitcoin? Real Risks You Can't Ignore

What Is the Downside of Buying Bitcoin? Real Risks You Can't Ignore

Buying Bitcoin comes with serious risks: extreme volatility, no legal protection, potential for total loss, and no income. It's not a reliable store of value or inflation hedge. Know the downsides before you invest.

Elliot Marlowe 5.01.2026
What Is the Best Budgeting Strategy for Real Life in 2026?

What Is the Best Budgeting Strategy for Real Life in 2026?

The best budgeting strategy isn't one-size-fits-all. Learn which method-zero-based, 50/30/20, envelopes, or automation-fits your life in 2026 and actually sticks.

Elliot Marlowe 4.01.2026
What Is the Worst Month for Crypto Investing?

What Is the Worst Month for Crypto Investing?

September has historically been the worst month for crypto prices, with Bitcoin and altcoins often dropping 8-12%. Learn why this happens, how to protect your investments, and when to buy back.

Elliot Marlowe 29.12.2025
How to Beat Chase 5/24 Rule: Smart Strategies for Approved Credit Cards

How to Beat Chase 5/24 Rule: Smart Strategies for Approved Credit Cards

Learn how to legally beat Chase's 5/24 rule with smart strategies like business cards, authorized user accounts, and product changes - without hurting your credit score.

Elliot Marlowe 28.12.2025
Can You Pay a Credit Card Bill With Another Credit Card?

Can You Pay a Credit Card Bill With Another Credit Card?

You can't pay a credit card bill with the same card, but you can transfer debt to another card with a 0% intro APR. Learn how balance transfers work, when they help, and what to avoid.

Elliot Marlowe 25.12.2025
Why Is 0 APR on Credit Cards Actually a Trap?

Why Is 0 APR on Credit Cards Actually a Trap?

0 APR credit card offers seem like a deal, but they often trap users with hidden fees, high interest after the promo ends, and credit score damage. Here's why they're more dangerous than they look.

Elliot Marlowe 22.12.2025
What Is the First Thing You Should Do When Budgeting?

What Is the First Thing You Should Do When Budgeting?

The first step in budgeting isn't cutting expenses - it's tracking every dollar you spend for 30 days. This simple habit reveals where your money really goes and sets the foundation for a realistic, lasting budget.

Elliot Marlowe 21.12.2025
How Much Should Home Insurance Cost Per Year in New Zealand?

How Much Should Home Insurance Cost Per Year in New Zealand?

Find out how much home insurance should cost per year in New Zealand based on location, home type, and rebuild value. Avoid underinsurance and hidden exclusions with real 2025 price examples.

Elliot Marlowe 18.12.2025
What Bank Gets Hacked the Least? Safe Savings Accounts in 2025

What Bank Gets Hacked the Least? Safe Savings Accounts in 2025

In 2025, Chase, Capital One, and Ally lead in savings account security with zero major breaches. Learn what makes these banks the safest and how to pick one that won't get hacked.

Elliot Marlowe 15.12.2025
What Are the Disadvantages of Remortgaging? Hidden Costs and Risks You Can't Ignore

What Are the Disadvantages of Remortgaging? Hidden Costs and Risks You Can't Ignore

Remortgaging can save money, but hidden fees, credit hits, extended loan terms, and rate resets often make it cost more in the long run. Know the risks before you switch in New Zealand in 2025.

Elliot Marlowe 14.12.2025
Is Consolidating Debts Good? The Real Pros and Cons

Is Consolidating Debts Good? The Real Pros and Cons

Debt consolidation can lower payments and interest, but it's not a fix for overspending. Learn when it helps, when it hurts, and how to do it right in New Zealand.

Elliot Marlowe 11.12.2025