If you’re like most New Zealanders, your mortgage is one of your biggest expenses. So what if we told you that there was a way to cut that cost and save on energy costs at the same time? It may sound too good to be true, but it’s not!
With a few simple changes, you can make your home more energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint. In turn, you’ll save money on your mortgage and power bills.
Ready to learn how? Keep reading for our top tips on cutting your mortgage and saving on energy costs in New Zealand.
Introducing the Homestar rating system
The Homestar rating system is a way for New Zealanders to measure the energy efficiency of their homes. The higher the rating, the more energy efficient the home is.
The idea behind Homestar is that making our homes more energy efficient is good for the environment and our wallets. When we use less energy, we save money on our power bills and reduce our reliance on polluting fossil fuels.
And as a bonus, more comfortable homes are easier to sell and command higher prices.
Save on Energy Costs
The average New Zealand household spends about $2,700 a year on energy costs, so any way that you can save on your energy costs is worth considering. Here are some tips to help you save on your energy costs in New Zealand:
- Use less electricity. There are a number of ways to use less electricity around your home, such as using energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights when you leave a room, and using natural light where possible.
- Use less hot water. You can save on hot water costs by installing a low-flow showerhead, only boiling as much water as you need, and washing your clothes in cold water.
- Use insulation. A well-insulated home will retain heat better in winter and stay cooler in summer, both of which will help you save on energy costs.
- Use renewable energy sources. If you have the opportunity to install solar panels or a wind turbine, you could significantly reduce your energy costs over time.
New Zealand’s Best Mortgage Deals
When it comes to finding the best mortgage deal in New Zealand, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.
- Make sure you compare interest rates from different lenders.
- Ask about any fees or charges that may be associated with the loan.
- Make sure you understand the terms and conditions of the loan before signing anything.
If you’re looking for ways to save on your mortgage and energy costs, then consider making some changes to your home in New Zealand. By insulating your home and installing energy-efficient appliances, you can make a significant dent in your monthly expenses.
And by shopping around for a better mortgage rate, you can reduce the amount of interest you’ll pay over the life of your loan. So if you’re ready to start saving, take a look at these tips and see how much you could be saving each month.