Another reduction in interest rates has given the New Zealand real estate market an additional shot in the arm. Real estate agents are reporting the 0.5% reduction in the Official Cash Rate (OCR) to 3.75% has sparked an immediate response from first-home buyers. While this is only anecdotal evidence, data over the longer term suggests…
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Aging populations are a concern for countries all over the world, and you might think there would be lots of property options from which our more senior citizens can choose to enjoy their final years. Yet, as an experienced agent, I know some folks struggle to find suitable downsizing accommodation. Many do not want to…
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The decision of whether to spend marketing dollars on “staging” your home when you’re ready to sell depends on your individual circumstances and available budget. Naturally, you’re looking to maximize your home’s appeal and achieve a higher sale price. So, asking a company to style your home and rent additional furniture for the sales campaign…
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The real estate scene has made a fast and furious start to 2025 with speculation of property tax reductions from the new Trump administration, and sobering forecasts about the cost of a mortgage this year. The Federal Reserve has announced it’s not going to follow through on an anticipated campaign of incremental interest rate cuts…
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For those planning a wonderful spring and summer garden this year, it’s time to roll up the sleeves and start planting. If you’re also preparing to put your home on the market for the spring or summer selling seasons, it’s vital you highlight your garden as a significant feature – it’s a significant contributor when…
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As owners become increasingly aware of their environmental impact, many believe creating an eco-friendly home is no longer a trend but a responsibility. Using sustainable practices contributes to a healthier planet and promotes a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle. So, what is an eco-friendly home? It’s designed and operated with minimal environmental impact, incorporating sustainable…
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Buying your first home is a truly memorable and exciting experience – but it’s when you go shopping for furniture that you start to enjoy retail therapy. But beware! There’s a skill to buying furniture for your first home. Don’t simply rock up to Ikea, or another furniture store, and begin picking out your favourite…
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Are you trying to sell your home right now, and finding that you’re just not attracting the attention of buyers that you’d hoped? If so, then it’s time to go back to the basics to ensure you’re providing your potential buyers with a five-star presentation of your home. As an experienced real estate agent, I…
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The summer school holidays can be hard on the “House-Proud” – those people who love everything to be neat and tidy. As the adage goes, “everything has a place and everything in its place”. But when you’ve got kids home from school for weeks on end, and the doors and windows open to trap a…
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The winter real estate market, often characterized by less competition and a more relaxed pace, presents unique opportunities for upsizing to a bigger property or taking it down a notch and downsizing. The fascinating element of buying a new home is that you’re going to be both a buyer and seller. And while the prime…
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