Council Rates Can’t Be Fixed, But Your Mortgage Can
Manage episode 518208504 series 3603762
A 50 basis point cut just landed, floating rates slid, and yet those four and five-year fixes barely blinked. We unpack the why behind that mismatch, translating market dynamics into clear choices for homeowners who need more than headlines to make the next fix decision.
We walk through how banks price long-term rates off wholesale markets and inflation expectations—often “pre-pricing” central bank moves—so the long end can bottom before retail rates catch up. From there, we weigh certainty versus opportunism: whether to lock just over 5 percent for stability, ride a short-term dip toward 3.99, or split your lending to hedge both paths. You’ll hear practical rules of thumb for sellers aiming to avoid break fees, families planning for a single income, and anyone deciding between floating, six to twelve-month fixes, and multi-year anchors.
We also look ahead. With another OCR review due late November and a new Reserve Bank Governor stepping in December, expectations can shift quickly. Green shoots in activity could cap further cuts and turn the cycle, while lingering softness may keep short terms competitive for a spell. Our goal is to help you set a plan before markets move: know your time horizon, decide what certainty is worth, and choose a structure that fits your life rather than chasing the lowest possible number for a fleeting moment.
If this helped clarify your next step, follow the show, share it with a friend who’s refixing soon, and leave a quick review so more New Zealanders can find smart, calm guidance on their home loans.
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Chapters
1. Council Rates Can’t Be Fixed, But Your Mortgage Can (00:00:00)
2. Setting The Scene And Banter (00:00:20)
3. OCR Cut And Rate Movements (00:01:17)
4. Have Long-Term Rates Bottomed (00:02:30)
5. Certainty Vs Chasing Short-Term Lows (00:03:11)
6. Market Outlook And Governor Change (00:04:30)
7. Tailoring Fix Terms To Life Plans (00:05:32)
8. The Value Of Good Advice (00:07:20)
9. Key Takeaway And Sign-Off (00:08:28)
162 episodes