Category: General

Upgraders making a comeback, says CoreLogic

If you’re considering putting your property on the market in the next few months to catch the spring selling season, you’ll likely be researching New Zealand’s real estate trends. With house prices still averaging $975,000 and rising nationally by 3.3% year-on-year, you’d be right in thinking we have a solid, if not spectacular, market. Yet,…
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Leaving your shoes at the door

When it comes to inspecting a property, many potential buyers may wonder whether it’s appropriate to remove their shoes or leave them on.  The answer to this question depends on various factors, including cultural norms, personal preferences, and the condition of the property. In some cultures, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a…
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First-time buyers dominating Kiwi property scene

First-home buyers remain the dominant group in the Kiwi real estate market, buying more than 40% of all properties in the first half of this year. With listings up 120% in less than three years, first-home buyers are enjoying a wider choice of properties and a strong negotiating position.  They’ll likely receive a further boost…
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Five tips for choosing outdoor furniture this summer

As the summer sun shines brightly, your outdoor space transforms into an extension of your home – a place to relax, entertain and create lasting memories.   Choosing the right patio furniture will enhance your lifestyle and help add value to your property.  As your local agents, we know the ability to entertain guests is one…
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Resolving neighbor disputes: trees and fences

It’s no secret some of the nastiest neighbor disputes are due to fence and tree issues.  Commonsense and good manners go a long way when neighborly tensions arise.  As an experienced local agent, I always counsel homeowners to take a deep breath before filing a lawsuit over a neighbor’s noxious weed tree or collapsing fence.…
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Six insect-busting ideas for your garden

Our long summer evenings are a wonderful time to be outdoors; so long as you’re not driven back inside by the pesky, biting insects that descend on us the moment the sun goes down. Being able to ward off insects is essential for an enjoyable evening on the patio. No one likes beating a retreat…
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Five surprising areas where germs lurk in your home

As the weather warms, we must all be mindful that the summer heat is a breeding ground for germs around the house. It’s never more important to keep a clean home than during the summer months. Doors and windows are often left open to bring in the cooling breeze, but insects, dust and pollen can…
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Five tips for choosing outdoor furniture this summer

As the summer sun shines brightly, your outdoor space transforms into an extension of your home – a place to relax, entertain and create lasting memories.   Choosing the right patio furniture will enhance your lifestyle and help add value to your property.  As an experienced real estate agent in your neighborhood, I know that the…
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Is rural living the lifestyle for you?

For homebuyers considering a move to the suburbs or the country, here are some statistics to think about. The 1920 US Census was the first time that more than 50% of the population was classified as urban. A century later, 80% of Americans now live in urban areas. While Covid encouraged many folks to escape…
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Best approach to remodeling historic homes

Historic homes, even when in disrepair, simply cannot be beaten for their “olde worlde” property charm. Remodeling them, however, can be a challenge for new owners.  Any property in an officially designated historic district – either national, state, or local – will be subject to rules and regulations laid down by local planning authorities or…
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