Category: General

Is the property market finally making a comeback?

Optimism for a big rebound in New Zealand property prices have increased with a third successive cut in interest rates. Our Official Cash Rate (OCR) has dropped a further 0.5% to 4.25% – the third successive reduction by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. While it’s too soon to see evidence of the latest cut,…
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What are today’s homebuyers thinking?

With today’s real estate market experiencing ebbs and flows on an almost monthly basis, sellers often ask me about the profile of a typical buyer. Usually, they’re seeking information that will help them prepare their home for sale and a guide for how long it might take to strike a deal. In our neighborhood, there’s…
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Seven ways to maintain your home this winter

As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, it’s time to prepare your home for the challenges of the colder months. Just like we bundle up in warm coats and hats, our homes need extra care to withstand winter’s chill.  From a real estate perspective, proactive maintenance not only prevents costly repairs but…
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Holiday decorating tips to lure buyers

The Holidays are upon us, and while you’re busy decking the halls, don’t forget that it’s also a fantastic opportunity to impress your home for potential buyers if you’re about to put your home on the market. Winter is not usually a boomtime for selling your home, of course. However, the recent cuts in mortgage…
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Why using a buyer’s agent is becoming more popular

Buying a property can be one of the most exciting moments of your life. It embraces the feeling of a new chapter in your life and all the hopes and dreams that come with it. Sometimes, however, there are not enough hours in the day to focus on finding your dream home. Instead, it can…
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Prioritize family safety when decorations go up

Home safety issues are never far away during the Holiday season. Fire departments respond to more emergencies at this time of year than at any other. Usually, it’s chimney fires or candles that have tipped over unnoticed. Occasionally, folks might overload their electricity supply. Given modern-day Holiday decor, there can be wires for fairy lights…
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When should a buyer insure their new property?

A quirk of the Australian property scene is the fact there is more than one “scene”. In fact, there are eight – each run by our federated state or territory governments. This makes life pretty hard for investors, who have to navigate the rules and regulations of each jurisdiction, or a homeowner who is looking…
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How to navigate the winter market

The real estate market, like the seasons, experiences its own ebbs and flows. While spring and summer often bring a flurry of activity, winter tends to see a slowdown. But don’t let the frosty air cool your real estate goals! This perceived “off-season” can actually present unique opportunities for both buyers and sellers. With the…
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The question every homebuyer is asking

When will interest rates start coming down? It’s the biggest question in the real estate market right now. It seems incredible to think the Reserve Bank of Australia actually put them up to 4.65% in November last year. Since then, it has steadfastly refused to move despite having seven meetings to consider its options. As…
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It’s time to double-down on tax benefit from your home

As the year winds down, it’s time for homeowners to shift their focus towards year-end financial planning.  Savvy homeowners can take advantage of several strategies to maximize tax benefits and potentially save money. Here’s a breakdown of key areas to address before the clock strikes midnight on December 31. Deep dive into deductions Owning a…
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