Author: Elliot Marlowe

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
What Is Better Than Equity Release? 5 Real Alternatives for Older Homeowners

What Is Better Than Equity Release? 5 Real Alternatives for Older Homeowners

Equity release isn't your only option. Discover five smarter ways to boost retirement income without debt - downsizing, KiwiSaver, part-time work, government support, and more - with real examples from New Zealand.

Elliot Marlowe 4.12.2025
Is There a Charge for Equity Release? Here’s What It Really Costs

Is There a Charge for Equity Release? Here’s What It Really Costs

Equity release isn't free - it comes with fees, interest, and long-term costs. Learn what you really pay when unlocking cash from your home, and how to avoid costly mistakes.

Elliot Marlowe 1.12.2025
What Is the Golden Rule Budgeting? A Simple Way to Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck

What Is the Golden Rule Budgeting? A Simple Way to Stop Living Paycheck to Paycheck

The golden rule budgeting, or 50/30/20 rule, helps you split your income into needs, wants, and savings. It's simple, effective, and works whether you're earning $25,000 or $80,000 a year.

Elliot Marlowe 1.12.2025
Can You Realistically Make Money with Crypto? Here’s What Actually Works in 2025

Can You Realistically Make Money with Crypto? Here’s What Actually Works in 2025

Can you realistically make money with crypto? Yes-but only if you avoid hype, stick to Bitcoin and Ethereum, use staking, and invest with discipline. Most people lose money chasing trends. Here’s what actually works in 2025.

Elliot Marlowe 1.12.2025
What's the Best Month to Buy a New Car in New Zealand?

What's the Best Month to Buy a New Car in New Zealand?

December is the best month to buy a new car in New Zealand because dealers are racing to hit annual sales targets. Learn when to shop, what discounts to expect, and how to avoid fake deals.

Elliot Marlowe 1.12.2025
Are Pensions Taxed? A Clear Guide to Pension Tax Rules in New Zealand

Are Pensions Taxed? A Clear Guide to Pension Tax Rules in New Zealand

In New Zealand, Superannuation and KiwiSaver withdrawals are tax-free, but other retirement income like dividends or foreign pensions may be taxed. Know what counts as taxable income in retirement.

Elliot Marlowe 30.11.2025
What Is the Average Pension Payout? Real Numbers for 2025

What Is the Average Pension Payout? Real Numbers for 2025

The average pension payout in the U.S. is around $3,500 a month when combining Social Security and other retirement income - but most people need more to live comfortably. Here's what you really need to know.

Elliot Marlowe 27.11.2025
What Are the Disadvantages of Equity Release? Key Risks You Can't Ignore

What Are the Disadvantages of Equity Release? Key Risks You Can't Ignore

Equity release offers cash from your home but comes with high interest, reduced inheritance, benefit loss, and hidden fees. Learn the real risks before you sign.

Elliot Marlowe 24.11.2025