Sealing Trust Decisions: The Power of Trustee Resolutions
Trustee resolutions are the formal records of decisions made by trustees—especially when meetings are conducted remotely or via telephone. They document actions like approving minutes, signing off on financial statements, authorizing distributions, and confirming major transactions. Without these records, significant decisions may go undocumented, exposing the trust to challenges and trustees to liability. Why Formal […]
Future Proofing your Decisions
Making decisions for ourselves is one of the most important capabilities we have. Few of us, want others to do this for us without our guidance or input. This is why it is critical to have both a Will and Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) in Place. But what if you don’t? A Will lets […]
The OCR just dropped again – here’s why that’s great news
The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has recently lowered the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to 3.25% marking the second consecutive cut this year. With interest rates trending downward, this shift could mean real savings for homeowners—and new opportunities for buyers. If you’re a homeowner, this is the perfect time to reassess your mortgage. With banks […]
A Life File – Your Legacy Footprint
Leaving your affairs in order can be one of the most thoughtful and compassionate things you do for your loved ones. A life file contains all your important documents, instructions, and personal wishes and ensures that your affairs are handled smoothly after your passing. At Schnauer & Co we love to think outside the box […]
Lease traps that could cost you thousands—Are you covered?
Commercial lease negotiations can be a minefield. One wrong clause, and you could be locked into a costly commitment that stifles your business growth. Whether you’re signing a new lease or reviewing an existing one, here are the top pitfalls to avoid: 1. Not Reading the Fine Print: Lease terms can be complex. If you don’t […]
Importance of the Annual Trustee Meeting
Annual trust review meetings are more than just a regulatory formality – they are an essential tool for effective governance and risk management as Trustees are liable for the management and performance of the trust regardless of whether they are also a beneficiary. Annual trustee meetings provide an opportunity to: Revisit the trusts purpose and […]
HELP!! I need help managing a Deceased Estate!
When someone dies, the thought of managing a loved one’s estate can be overwhelming. We are here to help and guide you through the process. It is important to note if your loved one had Enduring Powers of Attorney, these come to an end when they die. No one has the legal authority to deal with […]
Apartment Hunting? Don’t get stuck with a lemon!
With Auckland’s soaring house prices, more first-home buyers are stepping onto the property ladder through apartment living. But while high-rise life has its perks, buying an apartment comes with its own set of risks—think leaky buildings, surprise repairs, and unexpected costs. Many new apartments offer a 10-year warranty or insurance, but not all do. If […]
Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPOAs) and why are they so important
EPOAs are like a life jacket – rather have them and not need them, than not have them and need them. We all want to avoid complications. Putting EPOA’s in place will give you and your loved one’s peace of mind for the future. It can make difficult situations a little easier knowing that someone […]
Life Changes – Are your personal legal affairs up to date?
Richard and Sally thought they had everything sorted – Wills in place and legal affairs in order. But life happened and things changed. Richard’s executor moved overseas, making estate management difficult. Their daughter Sarah developed a gambling problem, raising concerns about her inheritance and Sally inherited a holiday home in Australia, only to discover unexpected […]
Property Market Boom
Summer is finally here and property purchasers and vendors are coming out of the woodwork and are eager to move! The Reserve Bank announced a further drop in the OCR (official cash rate) to 4.25%. With the warmer weather and drop in the OCR we should see a positive increase in activity within the property […]
Back to the office
After years of remote working in the wake of Covid, how feasible is it for employers to order their employees to return to the office? In recent months, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has announced his expectation that government departments enforce stricter rules around working from home, citing that it would boost productivity. Typically employment agreements […]
Navigating Xmas as Co-Parents
Christmas is all about family, but for separated parents, the holiday season can bring its own set of challenges. Ensuring a joyful holiday for your children starts with understanding your rights and responsibilities. Under the Care of Children Act 2004, the welfare and best interests of the child are paramount. If you don’t have a […]
To avoid a mess, a Will is best!
In New Zealand around 1500 people die every year without a Will. If this is you, and your estate is worth more than $15,000, this could cause more headaches and stress for your loved ones. It can also be expensive, delay distribution and complicate the Administration process. Furthermore, when you die without a Will, your […]
I’m looking for a new job, but my employment agreement includes a restraint of trade clause – what does that mean?
How many of us have accepted a job offer, received the employment agreement to peruse, only to notice that the agreement includes a restraint of trade clause? How many of us hold the belief that such clauses are not worth the paper they are written on? If you have held this belief, you are not […]
Why now might be the perfect time to refinance your mortgage
Refinancing your mortgage is a decision that should be made carefully, considering both the current economic environment and your personal financial situation. With the recent decrease in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) from 5.5% to 5.25%, many homeowners are asking if now is the right time to refinance. There are signs that inflation is getting […]