Category: Buyers

Five tips for choosing a mortgage

Keeping track of the mortgage market can be a full-time job when you’re preparing to upgrade. New offers come onto the market all the time even though our interest rate is staying stubbornly high amid speculation the drift down will begin in the next few months. As an experienced local real estate agent, I work…
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Prioritizing price is an emerging trend for buyers

Buyers are beginning to take a different approach to the property market by prioritizing price over location, according to a new survey. The rising cost of mortgages over the past two years has caused this switch in buyer focus. As an experienced real estate agent, I understand why 56% of buyers told a Coldwell Banker…
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Market offers buyers a rare window of opportunity

A greater choice of properties is opening up for buyers across New Zealand as the real estate market continues to deal with the stubbornly high official cash rate (OCR) of 5.25%. Astute buyers are showing confidence in the future value of the market, making their move before rates begin to fall. As a respected agency…
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The opportunities of fixer-uppers in a hot market

6 tips to know before you buy a fixer-upper

Many Americans dream of buying the classic “fixer-upper” – turning the little frog into a handsome prince!  It’s a romantic idea, but there are some risks that if you know about in advance, you can successfully steer around.  There’s no doubt fixer-upper homes are in big demand, and that often means they’re not always as…
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How to childproof your home

For family homeowners moving into a new property this spring, child-proofing this property is a must. Moving to a new house is stressful at the best, and especially so for first-time parents. But the Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles’ Safety and Injury Prevention Program notes most fall-related injuries happen to children of four-years-old and under,…
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Property compromises to save your partnership

Searching for your first or next home is rarely a straightforward journey for any couple. There will always be differences of opinion on the practicality and attractiveness of any property. The key to a successful home-hunt is listening to your partner’s point of view, respectfully expressing your opinions, and then finding a compromise. Many couples…
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Plugging into power a valid point when buying

Buyers use plenty of tricks during a property inspection to look for any flaws in their potential new home. Some open and shut cabinet doors in the kitchen and bathrooms, while others stare at the ceiling above the bathroom to spot dampness, or inspect under the sinks to look for water damage.  Paintwork at floor…
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Apps to help find dream home

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or about to upgrade your property for a second or third time, it’s a smart play to use technology to make your home-hunting as efficient as possible. Many buyers are now using phone apps exclusively to find their dream homes. These are some of the best. Zillow The market leader…
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Property compromises to save your partnership

Searching for your first or next home is rarely a straightforward journey for any couple. There will always be differences of opinion on the practicality and attractiveness of any property. The key to a successful home-hunt is listening to your partner’s point of view, respectfully expressing your opinions, and then finding a compromise. Many couples…
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How long does it take to buy a home?

One aspect to consider when buying a home is the length of time it might take for the transaction to complete. Because of the nature of the property and financial markets, it can feel like you’re on a roller-coaster: sometimes the ride goes quickly, and then it slows. It can feel super-quick once you’ve got…
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