When Should You Refinance Your Mortgage?

Lower rates, better terms, or freeing up cash — here's when it makes sense.

3 min readJason Bruce
Modern home interior representing mortgage refinancing options in New Zealand

Refinancing can be a powerful way to save money or unlock new financial options — but only when done for the right reasons.

Here's how to know if it's the right time for you.

Your Fixed Rate Is About to Expire

The perfect time to review your mortgage structure.

One of the most common times to refinance is when your fixed-rate period is ending. It's your window to:

• Negotiate a better deal

• Review your structure (fixed vs floating)

• Explore other lenders

Check current mortgage rates on the Reserve Bank website — even small differences in rates can add up fast.

You don't have to stick with your current bank — shopping around could save you thousands.

You've Built Up Equity

Make your increased home value work for you.

If your home has increased in value or you've paid down your mortgage, you may have new equity. Learn more about calculating your usable equity.

Refinancing could allow you to:

• Borrow more for renovations

• Restructure your loan

• Get better loan-to-value (LVR) terms

Consumer NZ's guide to home loans can help you understand different loan structures.

Consider your long-term plans — refinancing for renovations could increase your home's value.

You Want to Pay Off Debt Faster

Strategies to become mortgage-free sooner.

Sometimes refinancing isn't about saving money — it's about getting ahead. You might want to:

• Shorten your loan term

• Increase repayments

• Remove or reduce break fees from old setups

Use Sorted's mortgage calculator to see how changes to your loan term or payments could help you get mortgage-free faster.

This can be part of a smart, long-term plan to get mortgage-free sooner.

Your Bank Isn't Playing Ball

When it's time to explore other options.

Maybe they've declined a top-up, won't give you better rates, or just aren't helpful anymore. It happens — and it's a sign to shop around.

Just like first home buyers, refinancers should compare multiple lenders. A good adviser can:

• Compare lenders objectively

• Negotiate on your behalf

• Help you avoid making a costly switch

Don't let bank loyalty cost you — sometimes switching is the smartest financial move.

You're Restructuring for Investment

Setting up your lending for property investment success.

If you're thinking about buying a second property or investing, refinancing can help set things up correctly:

• Separate lending structures

• Interest-only vs principal and interest

• Maximise tax efficiency (talk to your accountant)

Learn about tax implications of property investment from the IRD.

It's about building the right foundation — not just chasing the lowest rate.

Calculate Your Break-Even Point

Use our calculator to see if refinancing makes financial sense.

Before refinancing, it's important to understand how long it will take to recover any costs involved. Use our calculator to estimate your break-even point:

Refinance Break-Even Calculator

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Current Monthly Payment:$3,496
New Monthly Payment:$3,160
Monthly Savings:$336
Break-Even Period:3 months

Note: This calculator provides estimates only. Actual savings may vary based on your specific situation and market conditions.

Consider both the immediate costs and long-term savings when deciding to refinance.

Thinking About Refinancing?

Not sure if now's the right time to refinance? Let's chat about your options.

I'll help you understand the costs, benefits, and timing of refinancing your mortgage.

Jason Bruce
Jason Bruce
Licensed Mortgage Adviser in NZ. Helping Kiwis make smart refinancing decisions.

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