The property market continued to hit record highs in November, with the highest number of residential properties being sold since 2006, according to the latest data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ).

Despite a rise in house prices, there has been a surge of interest in investment properties due to record low interest rates and plummeting returns from traditional forms of investment such as term deposits. If you have a plan and make good choices, rental properties are still a fantastic investm..

It has now been more than a month since the re-emergence of Covid-19 in our community and the subsequent lockdowns, giving plenty of time to assess its impact on the property market.

New Zealand’s property market remains relatively strong despite the recent movement of Covid-19 Alert Levels throughout the country, with a number of key property performance indicators holding their own in recent months.

Contrary to many economists’ predictions, most actual, key property market indicators are looking positive for sellers when you look at June sales data, with the number of sales throughout the country in June 2020 up 11% on the same month last year and house prices also trending upwards.

As we move well into the winter months, there is no doubt the property market has been affected by Covid-19 – as is the case with almost all sectors in New Zealand. It’s too early to make any definitive calls about the full effect of the virus while the market is still in recovery mode, however t..

With the welcome transition into Alert Level 1, New Zealand is now in the enviable global position of being able to begin rebuilding its economy in post-Covid environment. That being said, the future of many sectors and industries are still up in the air – and a hot topic on everyone’s lips is th..

Now we have entered Alert Level 1 as a nation what does that mean for the property market.

Like many industries in New Zealand you may well hear a collective sigh of relief from your local Real Estate agents and Property Managers when we enter Level 2.

Professionals offices across New Zealand are open for business under Alert Level 3 from Tuesday 28 April. All of our teams are committed to the health and safety of our staff and community while working to provide our clients with the best possible outcome in current market conditions.

To keep ou..

Professionals CEO Shaun Taylor gives his take on the impacts of Covid-19 on the Property Market as at 31 March 2020

Professionals Real Estate has been awarded Canstar Blue’s Most Satisfied Customers Award for 2019. This honour means that out of all the Real Estate and Property Management groups surveyed in New Zealand, we have the highest number of satisfied customers – including vendors, buyers and landlords ..

When it comes to property, knowledge isn’t power - it’s money. If you know what’s going on in your area you could save thousands of dollars when buying a home, or make a better return on your investment. 

Summer is the hottest time of year to sell your home in New Zealand. Most properties simply look better in the sunlight, there are more buyers on the hunt, and you may even nab a better sale price.

December was yet another record-setting month for the New Zealand property market, with asking prices at record highs and tight supply nationwide. These trends are likely to continue into 2020 and beyond, so if you’re thinking of buying or selling property soon you need to be aware of what’s goin..

The New Year is here and in typical Kiwi style, the property market finished 2019 with a bang. Wellington, Otago and several key regional markets all performed well in November, recording increases in the average asking price and high levels of sales activity and Auckland had the highest median p..

Every year roughly 7,000 residential properties change hands in New Zealand, according to data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand. The vast majority of these are sold by qualified, experienced real estate agents and not privately by their owners (with good reason). 

Is your home a little small for your growing family? Maybe your commute is longer than you’d prefer, or perhaps you’d like to be closer to friends and family.

Spring and early summer are the busiest times for New Zealand’s property market. There’s usually a larger number of interested buyers and more sales during this period - so If you’ve been considering selling your property, now could be the perfect time.

“Every child and their family deserve to be well, maintain hope and continue to dream.” This is the motto of the Child Cancer Foundation.

If you’re considering buying an investment property to store and build your wealth, now’s a great time to buy in several regions around New Zealand. September and October are typically hot months for the property market, so you’ll have plenty of property to choose from as well as fierce competiti..

When you move house, you aren’t just getting a new home, you’re getting a new community. That’s why when you’re buying property, checking out the area is just as important as inspecting the home itself. 

Big homes can be hard work, so they’re not for everyone. They’re often expensive to maintain, have huge power bills and even bigger mortgages, and that’s why so many Kiwis are downsizing.

Traditionally Kiwi’s have aspired to the idea of a ‘quarter acre’ dream - a nice house, on a nice piece of land in a good street. But today there are many different property types and ways to get on (and up) the property ladder. In this blog, we provide a brief overview of the most common options..

If you’re anything like most young Kiwis you probably can’t wait to get into a home of your own. Of course, you’re also probably aware that buying your first property can be a massive challenge. Luckily, if you know what you’re doing and have a solid strategy in place, you could be walking in the..

As an adult, moving house is usually an exciting time. A new home, a new neighbourhood, a fresh start. Kids and teens, on the other hand, can react differently - especially if the move is about to take them away from the only home they’ve ever known. 

New Zealand’s property market may be kicking back into high gear. During August, a month that’s usually quiet, buyers have been busy nationwide, perhaps spurred by the current record low home loan interest rates on offer.

On July 1, 2019, the Healthy Homes Standards came into law. This new regulation aims to lift the standard of rental properties throughout New Zealand by imposing minimum requirements around heating, ventilation, insulation, draught stopping and moisture ingress. 

A lot of the ‘common knowledge’ about property investment is actually just plain wrong. And, if you buy into these myths, it could make reaching your property goals difficult, leading you up the garden path, away from what really matters. 

You can’t make the right property decisions if you don’t know the market. To help you get up to speed fast, we’ve covered the major movements in NZ property during July.

New Zealand's property market is a tale of two islands right now. The South Island, buoyed by the strength of the Central Otago, Otago and Southland regions is seeing considerable price growth, while the North Island markets are holding still, led by a stagnating Auckland market. 

If you're getting ready to sell your home, the question of how much your property will fetch is likely to be top of mind. And of course, you'll be hoping for an 'above market' sale price to set yourself up for your next move.

As a landlord, you want to give your tenants the best living space possible - so it's important that you stay on top of all the latest housing rules and regulations. The Healthy Homes Standard (HHS) is one such regulation that landlords need to be on top of, particularly because some of these sta..

It takes a lot of background research to make the right property decisions, whether you're selling or buying. However, it can be challenging to stay on top of the property market as it's always moving, month to month.

Living on a lifestyle block is an excellent way of life - for those who have the time to dedicate to the expansive property. Many, however, find that they are a lot of hard work to keep up with, especially approaching retirement. The maintenance involved with owning a large block of land can be e..

If you're thinking about selling your home you've probably asked yourself dozens of questions. Is this the right time? What's my place worth? What's the market doing right now? Do I need help or should I sell myself? Is it worth renovating to increase my property's value?

Do you own a home or an investment property? Or are you waiting to enter the market, keen to take that first step up the property ladder? 

Thinking of selling your home? Perhaps you want to move into something bigger and better that'll meet your needs for the next decade or so? Or maybe you've got a new job and are relocating to a new area.

Self-managing your own investment property is possible, but it's not for the faint of heart. You'll have to spend considerable time choosing the right tenants, dealing with problems, familiarising yourself with legislation, organising tradesmen for repairs and maintenance and much more.

Selling your current home and buying a new property can be challenging. You might be worried about getting a bigger mortgage, or unfamiliar with the process of selling a property. You might also have no idea what your current home's worth is - which is why many head online to check out free prope..

There are few better ways to store and build wealth for retirement than property investment. With that said, making property work takes a lot of time and you'll need to know your local market well to ensure you make the right decisions. 

When you sell your property you'll obviously want to get the best price possible. To do that you'll need multiple prospective buyers and interested parties - the more you have the higher your eventual sale price is likely to be. 

A third of total investment in New Zealand goes into property , making it by far our nations most popular investment class. There's a good reason for this - property can be a brilliant way to build wealth if you know what you're doing.

There are few better ways to save for retirement or grow your nest egg than property investment. However, investing isn't easy - it takes a lot of time and effort to succeed.

Owning an investment property isn't hugely difficult - but succeeding can be. It takes time, expertise and effort to select, organise, manage and maintain the property, deal with tenants and ensure your investment is performing as it should be. 

Most property investors don't even consider commercial property - to the uninitiated, it seems overly complex, expensive and risky. 

With property prices, the way they are, finding a home in a good neighbourhood, that you can see yourself in long term can be a challenge. In fact, buying the right place without compromising on quality and location is often near impossible. 

When you've got other expenses to take care of like holidays and kid's schooling but don't want to sacrifice on location - buying an apartment is a brilliant option.

There are few better ways to gear up for retirement and build wealth than buying and holding property long term in New Zealand. As lucrative as it can be, managing the property and tenants yourself is often difficult, time-consuming and stressful. But we're here to help you avoid that stress as b..

As a first or second home buyer, you probably want a property that leaves your family room to grow, in a neighbourhood that you'd like to live in - with good schools, cool cafes and friendly neighbours. High house prices mean it can be tough to find that perfect place. 

Keeping up with the market is essential to your success as an investor, whether you're looking to buy new property, sell your current investment or improve your rental returns. 

Have you ever thought about investing in property? If you've got a sound strategy it's a great way to build wealth for your retirement and make your money work for you.

A growing family, new job or a change in lifestyle... whatever the reason, you know it's time to sell up and move on. Selling a home is very different from buying a home. Unlike the emotion involved when buying a house to live in, selling is all about maximising potential profit so you can get th..

New Zealand's property management landscape is subject to significant change. Legislation changes regarding property are hard to keep up with, let alone comply with. But once these changes are in place, it'll be important for you to ensure you're following suit. 

For many Kiwis today, getting a step up the property ladder raises the question of investing in a family home versus an investment property.  Perhaps you can live where you really want to by renting, but own somewhere else (wisely)?

Whether you're preparing for retirement, your family's future, t..

Every homeowner wants the best possible price when selling their property. A number of factors come into a sale price, and while you may feel you know your property's true worth, potential buyers can see things differently.

Looking to buy a home? Here's something to consider at the start of your buying journey: will you buy an existing home, or buy off the plan?

You're ready to venture into the market and take your first step onto the property ladder. Buying your own home is an exciting time but it can also be a daunting task, full of complexities if you're unprepared. 

If you’re considering a move on the property ladder, now is looking like a great time to do so, as listings soar in several regions across the country. 

You’re ready to sell your house. Perhaps the kids have left home and you need to downsize and you’d like a change in lifestyle or it’s simply time to buy your dream home. Whatever the reason, your current home no longer suits your needs and it’s time to sell. 

If you own a property and are considering renting it out through websites like Airbnb or Bookabach, proposed changes to rates could affect you. Under new council regulations, homeowners who rent out their properties for short-term bookings will be required to pay higher rates.

August was a month of record highs and lows in housing, with signs of an early spring market in two of the country's biggest centres. 

During the month, asking prices reached record highs across many of the regions, while half registered all-time lows in the number of houses listed for sale. 

Climbing house prices, a growing population and increased demand for affordable properties — it's no surprise many young Kiwis are worried they won't be able to afford their first home. Buying a property was once considered a rite of passage for all New Zealanders, but many feel it's become an al..

Whether it's your first time or you've sold multiple properties before, putting your home on the market is a big decision. There's a lot to consider and understandably you want to make sure you get the best possible result. After all, getting a good price for your property will set you up for the..

Being a landlord is a great way to earn additional income, but it also presents its own set of challenges - from problem tenants to maintenance costs.When it comes to sidestepping problem tenants, references from previous landlords are critical. But, how do you deal with first-time tenants who do..

Living in Auckland can be challenging. While you might love the long hot summers, beaches and vast range of restaurants and entertainment the city has to offer, it all comes at a price — namely, the high cost of property. It's no surprise then, that more and more Aucklanders are looking outside t..

You're a successful, experienced real estate professional, proud of the results you consistently achieve for your clients. While you love your job and the fast-paced property industry, you feel like it's time for a change in direction.

In June, the level of new property listings fell significantly across the nation compared to the same time last year, yet asking prices and buyer interest continued to remain steady, according to realestate.co.nz's latest findings.

Property can be a great investment, but it can also be a time consuming one. As a landlord managing your own property, you're tired of being time poor and the stress of dealing with all the demands involved. The pain of dealing with tenants, inspections, maintenance, rent arrears, confrontations,..

If you've sold properties before you know what the process entails, but even if you haven't you might still have some concerns that are preventing you from taking that first step. Those trying to sell plaster homes can be particularly worried about how its stigma could affect the sale. You know e..

Trading the city for country life is a dream shared by many Kiwis, and for good reason. There are so many things to love about rural living. 

You've decided property ownership is for you and after a dedicated effort to save for a deposit, you're finally ready to take the plunge — with some help from KiwiSaver. 

The widening gap between supply and demand in the New Zealand housing market continues to increase, and it's causing a shortfall of homes.  

Whether you're an agricultural professional or simply call a rural lifestyle property home, Fieldays has something for you. Held in Hamilton on June 13-16, Fieldays is the Southern Hemisphere's largest agricultural event, bringing together cutting edge technology, latest innovations, and relevant..

As autumn draws to a close, the New Zealand property market continues to undergo significant changes throughout the major centres and smaller regions. Let's look at the highlights.

Owning a rental property can be a great investment that brings cash flow and capital gains. However, over time the market and your personal circumstances can change, impacting your investment. This might be the time to reconsider whether being a landlord is right for you.

As a landlord you want to get the most out of your property. A rental is a significant investment, but done right it can yield huge financial rewards now, and for years to come.

Making the right renovations to your property will add value and allow you to increase your monthly earnings. These cha..

Perhaps you’re saving for your retirement and wondering how to do this while still covering two mortgages or you’ve always been interested in property investment but don’t know where to start. Maybe you’re already a landlord and want to expand your portfolio. Whatever your motivation, putting you..

While all sellers are hoping (and doing everything they can) to achieve the dream end result, sometimes things can deviate from the best-case scenario and become a bit of a nightmare.

Your best plan of attack when selling your home is to make like a scout and ‘always be prepared’ – prepared for ..

If you’re looking to sell your home, you have several options at your fingertips when it comes to valuing your property. These include accessible online data as well as traditional valuation providers - real estate agents. 

With evolving technology, it can be hard to know where to start and which..

The housing market bounced back in February with prices and volumes of houses sold ahead of the same time last year. Latest figures from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) show strong growth across the country, indicating a property market in great shape.

Quick tips for anyone new to running an investment property.

Oh the elusive passive income; does it really exist or is it a fable? Perhaps that tidy little brick and tile could be your mythical golden goose? That handy to the motorway, low maintenance unit – could it be the caviar on your retirem..

Finding your perfect match when hiring an agent

So you're looking to sell your property and looking for a real estate agent. Part job interview, part blind date, choosing the right agent to partner with takes a very worthy investment of time up front, but one which will likely save you stress, t..

Understanding your financial capabilities when it comes to selling your home and buying a new one, can be a bit like setting off on an adventure into the unknown.

So whether you’re looking for your first home, investing in a rental or you’ve grown out of your current home; it’s a good idea to gat..

Thinking about selling but haven’t made a move yet? Our video series could help...

Chances are, your reasons for holding off making the big decision to move are many and complex – a daunting mix of “too hard basket” – knowing the time, emotional and physical effort required will be huge if you’re..

If you’re new to the world of property, buying a house for the first time can be an exciting and an overwhelming prospect. From getting your finances in order, to making an offer and understanding your legal obligations; it’s a complex process with many aspects to consider.

You've decided to sell your house...but are you ready for the journey ahead? Here’s what you need to know to get everything organised and to get yourself mentally prepared for becoming a vendor-extraordinaire!

It’s been a stressful week at the office which has left you longing for the rapidly approaching weekend.

Ahh the weekend; a time for sleep-ins, family brunches and perhaps a game of tennis. Or is it time to sit down with your lawyer to go through the finer points of the New Zealand Residential T..

New Zealand’s property market is in great shape and there’s more to come. Following the turbulence of fluctuating markets, legislative changes and political activity in 2017, the national real estate market settled into a positive position as last year drew to a close.

Insider knowledge from the people who have been selling homes for over 20 years.

It goes without saying that real estate agents have a lot of experience selling other people’s houses. But what happens when it comes to putting their own home on the market?

As we head into 2018, property watchers can expect a number of changes to the current climate, some of which have already been set in motion by the new Labour-led Government.

There are only a few days left of 2017, but what a year it has been for the property market. It will be remembered as one of extreme highs and lows in the housing cycle. A General Election, immigration and building costs all had an affect, putting pressure on prices and influencing stock levels. ..

Talk to any successful property investor and you’re likely to hear the same advice: achieving your goals has nothing to do with luck and everything to do with planning. Arming yourself with the right information and having a rock solid game plan in place is the best way to ensure you make good in..

Kiwis have always had a love affair with property and understandably so. Bricks and mortar are an appealing investment that can help you build wealth and generate an income as you move towards retirement.

Next to owning your own home, investing in property has long been a goal for many Kiwis. Why? Well, aside from the fact that our love affair with land and property ownership is part of our DNA, property investment has significant financial benefits. It’s an excellent way to create wealth and a pa..

I recently asked BNZ Chief Economist Tony Alexander to comment on what we can expect economically and from a property investor perspective in light of our new coalition Government.

He reflected that while attempts will be made to build 10,000 affordable houses per annum they will fail due to a la..

If you’re hunting for an investment property for the first time it can be a little tricky to know what exactly you're looking for. The process can start to feel a little time consuming, especially when you realise there’s so many different options available.

We know you have been waiting to hear how the election results are going to affect your property investment decisions so I’m delighted to introduce to you the Bank of New Zealand’s Chief Economist Tony Alexander. Tony has reflected for us some of his ideas on the election results and what it mean..

Unless you’re practicing property law you’re probably unaware of the ins and outs of the New Zealand Residential Tenancy Act (RTA). While this isn't exactly bedtime reading it’s key for landlords to have a basic understand of what it means for them   and their tenants.

Buying your first home is an exciting first step into a new stage of life. Yet as you’ll probably be feeling a mixed bag of emotions, it helps to have a good overview of how the whole process is going to look. So we’ve put together five tips for those entering the market for the first time.

Despite recent reports of the housing market beginning to cool, house prices in New Zealand are very much still on the rise. Yet according to data from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand fewer properties have been sold – in August, not a single region saw an increase in the number of proper..

If you’re looking to a move onto the property ladder then now is looking like a great time to do so. September statistics are pointing towards a stable market, especially in Auckland.

As Kiwis we love to be a little bit DIY. Owning a rental property is about much more than just watching the money roll through each week. Maintenance, tricky tenants, and hoarders can be all part of the package and need to be handled well if you want a great return on investment. If you’re feelin..

Deciding how you're going to sell your home is one of the biggest decisions you can make along your sales journey. And as you may feel unfamiliar with the selling process it can be hard to know what method is going to be most effective for you.

If you’re a regional homeowner, the latest key market indicators suggest now could be a good time for you to sell. With many potential buyers being priced out of main centres like Auckland, demand has heated in the regions as people start to consider it a good alternative.

If you own an investment property , it’s important to stay up to date with the latest property management legislation. And while you want to ensure your property remains rent ready, understanding and being aware of legal changes can be tricky and time consuming.

When buying your first home, it’s key to choose a loan that best suits your financial situation. Ideally, you’d have a basic understanding of the different loans available, but this can easily become confusing and add to the uncertainty of the buying process.

Seasonality in real estate is worth considering- don't rule out the cooler months of the year, especially if your home is elevated and sunny pretty much all year round. There are plenty of buyers in the market in Autumn and Winter and less competition. So consider the choice to be brave and diffe..

Maintaining a large plot of land or a lifestyle block can require a lot of time and hardwork. There comes a time when the natural progression is to downsize to something smaller.

If you’re selling your home for the first time it’s understandable to feel a little unsure about the whole process. You probably have plenty of questions around entering the market, and how to ensure you get the best price possible.

Gone are the days when apartments were just for students and young professionals. With many now designed for a range of lifestyle stages and needs, an apartment can be a great option for a first step onto the property ladder.

When the time comes to sell your home, it’s key to approach the process with clarity and confidence. It’s important to understand each step as you work towards selling your property. This blog aims to make the journey a little easier to follow as we look at the selling process from start to finis..

In today’s increasingly competitive market, in order for your home to sell it needs to stand out and impress by ‘wowing’ potential buyers. Your open home is the perfect time to do this. It’s your opportunity to show your buyers why your house is the perfect property for them.

When it comes time to sell your home, preparation is vital- especially in getting your finances into order. As you begin your selling journey, it’s important you have a realistic idea of how much it’s all going to cost.

Should you stay or should you go? Take our test to see if now is the right time for you to make the move.

Tell tale signs that it’s time to sell up for ‘greener pastures’ are when your home stops being something you gush about to a friend over morning coffee, or you're late for work because y..

Following April reports, May numbers continue to show that it is a great time to get on the property ladder. An increase in housing stock along with stable asking prices means buying your first home is beginning to look a little easier. This blog will explore what the latest data around New Zeala..

Selling your first home can present an assortment of emotions- from anxiety to sheer excitement. You’re most likely at a stage when you want something bigger and brighter and you want to just get started. As a result, it’s easy for people to rush into a decision that may not be the wisest. So the..

Like any true blue kiwi, you pride yourself on turning your hand to most things. Selling your wheels at the car fair – no problem. Turning your old couch into cash – too easy. You worked in retail to pay your way through university; so you are, by definition, a pro at this selling lark! But what..

If you’re considering buying your first home, recent changes in the real estate market mean it could be a great time to do so — especially in Auckland. With prices flattening out and an increase in stock available, buyers can have confidence that the housing market has turned in their favour.

Buying an investment property can be a smart and lucrative decision. Choose the right property and you’ll be putting extra income into your pocket for your retirement, but choose the wrong one and it can be a costly mistake.

However you look at it, lifestyle property is hard work. You love your house and you’ve put a lot of blood, sweat and tears into it, but now you’re starting to think it’s time for a change. Perhaps your family circumstances have changed and you’re looking to downsize. Whatever the reason, the des..

For only the second time in a decade nationally, the number of new residential listings in the month of March exceeded the number of new listings for February.

If you’re a landlord who’s managing a rental property (or several of them) yourself, you know how time consuming it can be. Even when tenants are a dream, landlords who self-manage their properties still have a lot on their plates: conducting regular inspections for your insurance, keeping up wit..

Not all tenants are created equal, and as a landlord, taking the time to choose the right one can help to protect your investment. Avoid the pain of costly evictions, non-payment, and damage to your property, by finding the right tenant the first time round!

As a seller, you and your agent are doing everything you can to get a great result when selling your home. There’s a lot going through your mind right now – from whether it’s the best time to sell, to contemplating the upheaval of moving house, or whether you’ve gotten the very best price. And – ..

Many New Zealand home buyers are being tempted by the open spaces and brilliant value of the regions. As a little of the lustre wears off in the Auckland and Wellington property markets, regional property is in hot demand. And it’s a trend that looks set to continue.

With New Zealand’s strong population growth being driven by record migration numbers, and low interest rates encouraging borrowing, 2017 property market trends are pointing to this being a great year to think about selling a home.

Thinking about selling? Find out whether New Zealand property tax laws may affect you (by taking a chunk out of your capital gain). Whether this is your first home, or you’ve been out of the market for a few years, now’s a great time to brush up on your tax obligations.

All fingers are pointing to seasonality being in full swing – particularly in the regions. In a turn-up for the books, asking prices in Auckland remained at a standstill during January, while nine out of 19 regions in New Zealand recorded an all-time asking price high. The bottom line being that ..

When you’re starting your real estate business it’s a wise idea to ensure you have measures in place that will generate recurring revenue. Having a strong property management portfolio can be the answer - the cornerstone of your successful enterprise. 

Looking at selling your home but would like to consider your options? Selling your home is often the first option that springs to mind when thinking of making a property change. This could be the way forward for you, but it’s worth looking at alternatives.

An open home is your chance to create the perfect first impression. It’s like a first date with your prospective buyer – it’s your chance to really wow them and win them over.

If you’re thinking of buying an investment property you may be wondering what’s involved and when’s a good time to make the move.

As New Zealanders, we have always idealised the lifestyle-block lifestyle. And while the appeal for many of us has been obvious, in these changing times of rapid growth and demand, many are changing their perspective and considering the benefits and appeal of apartment living.

During the holiday season, while we were unwinding and taking stock, it could be easy to assume that the property market was also taking it easy. And although this has been the case for many of the areas around the country, Auckland stands out as continuing to have an increase in the number of pr..

Continuing on from our last blog "Key influencers of buyer confidence: what they mean for you" this blog covers further key trends currently occurring in the NZ property market. In this blog, we’ll look at the current status of key parameters such as values, sales volumes, market activity, and li..

Buyer confidence is influenced by a number of external factors. By understanding the wider forces that shape the property market, you can make well-informed decisions.

As the weather heats up, the New Zealand property market is cooling down, as demand slows down in the lead up to the holiday season. While everyone else makes their summer holiday plans, this could be the perfect time for you to make a move.

Gain an insight into the current trends on the NZ prope..

In this month's edition of Professionally Speaking, we’ll take an in-depth look at the fascinating things that are happening in real estate around New Zealand right now. 

Sign up to our video series "Professionally Speaking" to get all the latest advice, trends and reports from our experts.

So, you’ve been thinking about selling your home, but aren’t sure about making that life-changing leap, yet. It can be overwhelming, but that’s to be expected when you’re selling your biggest asset. Don’t despair, you just need to develop a selling plan before charging headlong into the glorious ..

With the introduction of the unitary plan in Auckland, as a homeowner you are probably wondering what this change means for you. You may be asking how it will impact the NZ property market, and if you were to sell your house now, how does the new unitary plan affect this? These are great question..

In this edition of Professionally Speaking, we'll be talking about a few current hot topics in real estate. We’re now in that final run to Christmas, and the marketplace is a very fascinating place indeed - let's get into it!

Spring may have sprung, but the property market is not in bloom. The traditional lift in the housing market activity during September failed to eventuate, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the property market in 2016.

Average asking prices across the country fell by $7.556 (1.3 per cent) in July 2016 — the first decline the NZ housing market has seen in the 3 months since April.

The sale of lifestyle blocks is booming and property owners can confidently say it is a seller's market across the country. Between April and June this year there were 2480 lifestyle property sold. That’s a sales increase of 401 properties when compared to the same time last year (2079 properties..

At present, the lifestyle block market is experiencing an overall lift nationwide. However, lifestyle properties come with their own set of nuances, and when it comes to selling, they are the most at-risk type of properties for not selling the first (or second!) time around.

Selling a lifestyle property is much more complex than selling a residential property. There are financial, legal and tax implications, not to mention the cost of losing out on getting the best possible price for your property.

And, a lifestyle block on the market a second time around is one of..

In this edition of Professionally Speaking, we’ll be talking about planning your sale before Christmas. Yes, spring is here and we need to start thinking about those timelines. We’ll also be talking about first home buyers, investors, and buying that beach holiday home.

You’re already well aware that lifestyle properties take a lot more maintenance than the average residential property and can take longer to sell. 

So even if there is a remote chance you might sell-up in the future – whatever you do, don’t let the maintenance slip. Otherwise, when it comes time ..

In July the average asking price for houses fell, which has been the first decline for the housing market within a 3-month period.

This month we're talking about what’s affecting the New Zealand market from both outside of New Zealand, and around the world. And also, what’s happening between the Auckland market and the regional market.

Average asking prices across the country fell by $7.556 (1.3 per cent) in July 2016 — the first decline the NZ housing market has seen in the 3 months since April.

 If you’ve mentally moved on from life on the property, chances are you’ve got a vision for where you want to be. But before you hang up the gumboots completely, here’s a few options you could consider.

Are you a lifestyle property owner but finding it’s becoming a bit of a stumbling block? 

It’s clear that residential property all across New Zealand is in a seller’s market – but what about lifestyle property?

Do you own a Lifestyle block? If you’re thinking about selling in the near (or distan..

Are you a lifestyle property owner but finding it’s becoming a bit of a stumbling block? 

Maybe it’s the cost, the upkeep, the commute to work or perhaps you just don’t need all that space anymore – whatever the reason, your lifestyle block is feeling like it isn’t the “lifestyle” for you anymor..

Interest in the Auckland property market has dropped on the back of ever-increasing house prices and falling returns for investors. Average asking prices rose again to another all-time high of $888,493 in June; but searches on realestate.co.nz for properties in the city has fallen.

It appears Auc..

What do landlords and tenants need to know about new laws to ensure rental homes are kept warmer, drier and safer to live in? 

Sign up to our new video series Professionally Speaking to get all the latest advice, trends and reports from our experts.

From 1 July 2016, changes to tenancy laws will ..

Sign up to our new video series Professionally Speaking to get all the latest advice, trends and reports from our experts.

In a classic supply and demand situation, the New Zealand housing market reached record highs and lows for the month of May with low stock levels driving up average asking pr..

How are you affected by various property laws? Find out by downloading our eBook: My House, Your Castle. A guide for anyone new to running an investment property in New Zealand.  

According to the new Health and Safety Work Act 2015, you are considered a Person Conducting a Business or Undertakin..

Average property asking prices are good indicators of current market sentiments. Statistically, asking prices tend to correlate closely with sales prices recorded in future months when those properties are sold.Real-time market statistics released by Realestate.co.nz show the May national average..

Quiet enjoyment means being able to enjoy reasonable peace, comfort and privacy, and allowing others to enjoy the same.

According to the Residential Tenancies Act, tenants are entitled to the quiet enjoyment of the house they rent, which means the landlord may not harass the tenant nor interfere ..

Sign up to our new video series Professionally Speaking to get all the latest advice, trends and reports from our experts.

High demand for property in Wellington means available inventory has fallen a record 61% since April last year.

Our eBook “How to Get Ready to Sell Your Home” is full of useful advice, but for specific advice around leveraging social media to help sell your home, read on!

Social media is a powerful connectivity platform that allows us to stay in touch and share information with friends, family, acquai..

Average property asking prices are good indicators of current market sentiments. Statistically, asking prices tend to correlate closely with sales prices recorded in future months when those properties are sold.

Recent information released by Realestate.co.nz indicate a seller’s market for the ma..

Separation or loss of a partner is a stressful and upsetting time. And unfortunately, it can also have negative implications for any wealth, property or plans for the future you and your partner have acquired over the span of your relationship – even if you never married.

In March it was reported that the NZ housing market was beginning to cool when prices in the Auckland region fell 0.4%. But recent fears (or hopes) of a levelling market were quelled as Auckland housing prices have rebounded, setting a record median high of $820,000 – surpassing the $800,000 mar..

Whether you simply don’t have the time, patience or skills to manage your own property, leaving your investment property nest egg in the hands of a complete stranger is rarely a decision made lightly. 

It’s not always plain sailing when it comes to property management, but there are some solutions. 

It’s all going swimmingly: you’ve found the perfect property, your bank is happy with the numbers and your ideal tenant has signed the tenancy agreement and moved in. Now all you have to do is sit b..

Good news for potential property sellers

The New Zealand property market is booming, with record national average asking prices in Auckland, Coromandel, Hawkes Bay and Otago regions reported in February 2016.

Great expectations? Good luck!

To paraphrase Forrest Gump, renters are like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get. There are many different types of tenants, and without a methodical screening process, it’s hard to tell whether your prospective renter is a house proud Howard ..

You own the dark blue neighbourhoods on the Monopoly board, packed to the brim with hotels. That’s a bit how you feel as you sit back and wait for the rent to roll in. After some researching and a lot of searching to find the perfect rental property, it’s time to reap the rewards. While you sit b..

What’s your type?

Money in the bank is nice, but money that’s making money can’t be beaten! If you’re considering an investment property, understanding your motivations is pivotal – both to purchasing the perfect investment, and renting it out according to your goals.

If one of your New Year’s resolutions was to become a first home owner this year, then you could be in luck!

With a series of favourable movements around world markets, the New Zealand economy is being picked to suit first home buyers. Find out why…

Selling your home can sometimes feel like going to the dentist.

You imagine it might be painful and try to avoid it for as long as you can but eventually, you know it’s a good decision to make and that you shouldn’t delay it any longer.

Last week we gave you four great New Years resolutions to guide you towards your 2016 dream home.

This week, here’s another four resolutions that could help you set those goals and get into your new place even sooner!

The Christmas tree’s come down. The kids new toys are now part of the furniture. 

And you've just recovered from all the festivities and visitors. Finally you have some time to relax and dream about the year ahead. If moving house is on your wish list this year, then here’s some resolutions you m..

Ahh the holidays at last.

With long hot days ahead, it’s the perfect time to tackle some serious decluttering – especially if you’re considering putting your home on the market in the New Year.

Our Home Straight video series is proving a hit and our next installment really gets into the nitty gritty of the selling process....

In the latest episodes, our agents cover important topics such as developing your pricing and marketing strategies to help you get that ‘Sold’ sign up as quickly ..

Have the changes in the current housing market left you feeling unsure about selling your home?

IIn order to help you arrive at a more informed decision, this article will walk you through the current trends in the market based on recent data from Real Estate NZ, give you a better understanding o..

For most people, selling a house isn’t something you do every day.

In fact, you’ll probably only ever sell a few properties in your life. So before you embark on the journey, it’s a really good idea to familiarise yourself with the process by watching the next episodes in our free video series.

As with all products, the longer they remain on the shelf, the less appealing they become. Don’t let your home meet the same fate as deli goods that have outstayed their welcome – price reduced for quick sale. Whether you dust off the bugle, book the town crier or sit down with your agent and dis..

If you've been holding back making the decision to sell your home because you're not ready for the upheaval ahead, then grab a coffee and take a look at our 5 quick tips.

It's not rocket-science, but it is common-sense advice. Follow these tips to help reduce the stress involved in selling your ..

Getting from ‘for sale’ to ‘sold’

Your price is set; you’ve enlisted the expert help of a great real estate agent, and together you’ve cemented a marketing plan for selling your home. Now it’s time to get sold.  It’s a case of different strokes for different folks (or cities) when it comes to ..

Getting ready for open homes when selling your house

All that marketing has done its thing and potential buyers are literally on your doorstep. And my, what a clean and tidy doorstep it is. Oh, and the planter box of seasonal blooms beside the front door is a nice touch. Come on in, make yoursel..

Duck, duck, goose? Getting caught out by overlooked debt, an unfavourable builder’s report or a new mortgage that removes the fun factor from your life can really put a spanner in the works (or a cat among the ducks, so to speak). A quick financial WOF prior to selling your home will let you exa..

As you tentatively dip your toes into the waters of becoming a first-time seller, perhaps you’re asking yourself “is there another way?” Depending on your financial situation and motivations to move – there could be. Have you fully considered the options of staying-put (and renovating), holding ..

You’ve finally got everything (and everyone) in order. You’re ready to ring the agent and get those signs up! But wait... Christmas is coming and you’ve offered to host it at your house this year... will that be in the middle of your settlement period and consequently coinciding with your ‘packi..

You've mentally moved on and into your next home. And you have the Pinterest boards to prove it. Perhaps you've had 'the talk' with your partner several times and as soon as you hit an obstacle you both beat a quiet retreat, and throw another log in the ‘too hard’ basket. When selling your home,..

Selling your home can be full of highs and lows, both emotionally… and when it comes to your bank balance.  

If you are harbouring an aversion to facing the financial impact of selling (and buying) a home, consider these four crucial points and get a step closer to deciding if the time is right ..

Things to consider before you hit the property ladder (again).

The idea of selling your house pops in and out of your mind and conversation, but is quickly squashed once you dip your toes into the sea of information involved with putting the idea into action. Are you simply delaying the inevitab..