I just have to warn everyone about NZ Home Loans, so my apologies for the rant, but hopefully I can save someone else some pain.
I was extremely disappointed and frustrated with NZ Home Loans. I would not recommend them to anyone. They lacked process, documentation, and went back on a pre-approval after I bought at auction leaving me in a very dangerous predicament. It appeared to me the foul up was around the broker not knowing the basics of their lender's (Kiwibank) credit criteria. More than that, I had not bought at auction before and was being solely advised by them, and their advise was flippant, informal and completely not it my best interest. I was told that I did not need a written pre-approval, verbal would suffice. I was told that a builders report and valuation was not required (and it was after auction). Then when their lender declined after auction (and this is after being told I have an unconditional pre-aproval), I was advised to max out all my credit cards to boost my deposit. Not happy with them at all. I would not recommend them to family, friends nor enemies.
I've had nothing but trouble with mortgage brokers before. Best bet seems to be shop around yourself to get the best deal for you. Dealing direct with the banks seems the safest and most secure way of organising a mortgage - fewer middlemen to foul things up.
I've had great experiences with Westpac's mortgage advisers and call centre staff.
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