Monthly Landlord Newsletters

Welcome back to the Propertyscouts monthly landlord newsletter, where we update you on all things New Zealand property market, investor insights, seasonal reminders, and more.

Tony Alexander on the Global Trade War: What It Means for NZ Housing

Things are getting shaky on the global stage - tariffs flying, supply chains squeezed, and big question marks over the US economy’s stability. We’re in uncharted waters (again), and just like during Covid, predictions are a shot in the dark.

• Slower global growth = less spending = headwinds for NZ

• Tariffs + supply chain issues = inflation pressures

• Global uncertainty = downward pressure on share prices

• Business margins already tight = more liquidations likely

It’s not all doom and gloom - interest rates are likely to stay low, which helps with mortgage costs, and NZ is known for weathering tough times. But it’s a complex, fast-changing picture. Read more here

The latest OCR cut: What it means for property and borrowing

The Reserve Bank cut the Official Cash Rate (OCR) on 9 April, bringing it down to 3.5% -  and with global uncertainty rising, further cuts could be on the horizon. So, what does this mean for the housing market?

Lower OCR means banks are dropping mortgage rates, making it cheaper to borrow. We’re already seeing 1-year fixed rates around 5.3% and talk of some banks dipping below 5% if more cuts come through. That’s great news if you’re looking to refinance or invest, as repayments should get a little easier.

If you’re thinking about fixing your mortgage, now’s a good time to shop around - locking in a low rate could give you some certainty while the world sorts itself out. Remember: in this market, steady and flexible wins the race. Read more here

Thinking about adding a granny flat to your property?

Big changes are on the horizon! From 2025 into 2026, new national rules are set to make building a small secondary dwelling faster, cheaper, and way less stressful for homeowners, landlords, and investors. 

Soon you’ll be able to build a granny flat up to 70m² without needing building consent - as long as it meets the NZ Building Code, is built or supervised by a Licensed Building Practitioner, and you let the council know before and after construction. 

What’s in it for you? Faster builds, more affordable housing options, and a great way to house family or earn extra rental income. Read more here

Here’s your quick housing market update

Inflation has crept up a bit (now at 2.5%), but it’s still sitting comfortably within the Reserve Bank’s 1 - 3% target, so no need to panic. This does mean the Reserve Bank is likely to play it safe with interest rates - so don’t expect mortgage rates to drop just yet. 

Investors are making a comeback thanks to friendlier rules and lower rates, which has nudged first-home buyers’ market share down to 25%. But here’s the good news: with more homes selling overall, first-home buyers are actually snapping up more properties than they did last year - so the opportunities are still there if you’re in the game.

Market activity is picking up, with total property sales up about 5% compared to this time last year. Net migration is also on the rise, which could keep demand ticking along. And for all the stats fans out there, early signs point to a solid 0.8% GDP growth for Q1- another tick in the box for a steady market.

In short: inflation is under control, mortgage rates are steady, investors are back, and first-home buyers are still getting deals done. Read more here

Quote to Ponder

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

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Disclaimer

Given the opinions expressed in parts of the email, it’s important that we make it clear that the contents are opinions and observations and made in good faith.  

Propertyscouts NZ (2020) Limited, trading as Propertyscouts, and its associated parties (including directors, agents, employees, officers or otherwise) have attempted to provide   this information to the best of their ability but do not make any representations or warranties of any nature (intended or implied) as to the accuracy of the information on this communication. All recipients of this communication should conduct and rely on their own enquiries in relation to the information on this communication.

The information available on the properties listed for sale, rent or otherwise, has been obtained from the vendor or landlord of the property and the appropriate professional service providers. We do not and cannot verify or guarantee the accuracy of the information obtained in relation to the properties.

The information and/or materials available in this communication are intended to be general information only and may be changed at any time, without notice to you. The information and/or materials in this communication should not be relied on under any circumstances as a substitute for legal, financial, real estate, or other professional and/or expert advice. To the maximum extent permitted by law, Propertyscouts and its associated parties disclaim all liability, responsibility, and negligence for any direct or indirect loss or damage suffered by any person arising from the information and/or materials presented in this communication or any information and/or materials that arise from it.