Category: General

Nine tips for running a great yard sale

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the clutter in your home, or you’re trying to ease the burden of having so many belongings before moving home, then a yard sale is a fabulous strategy to create some space in your life. The greatest benefit is that you can sell or give away the majority of unwanted…
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A year for rebuilding confidence: Cotality predicts 5% value rise

Leading industry research group, Cotality, has predicted in its latest market report that prices could rise by up to 5% this year. Lower mortgage costs and an improving economy would power the recovery, according to Kelvin Davidson, Cotality’s Chief Property Economist for NZ. He said: “Debt-backed multiple property owners, including Mum and Dad investors, have…
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Six ways to keep your heating costs down

Many folks will be quietly wondering about the size of their next utility bill after the severe winter conditions they’ve been enduring recently. It shouldn’t take a snow storm to remind you of the benefits of maintaining a well-insulated home.  Whether in hot or cold climates, a property that’s able to retain the warmth and…
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Americans cash in on easing of foreign ownership rules

In a move to help boost New Zealand housing prices at the luxury end of the market, the Government has passed legislation to allow “golden visa holders” the right to buy residential property. The new policy gives residency in exchange for property investments of $5 million or more. Previous restrictions have kept foreigners out of…
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Unplug these ‘Energy Vampires’ to reduce your power bills

Domestic power consumption and utility bills are a constant focus as we all try to run our homes as efficiently as possible. Inevitably, we don’t always get everything right, and many of us are guilty of leaving appliances on standby, using electricity for no benefit. So-called “Energy Vampires”, like TVs, game consoles and computers, cost…
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Pantone Color of the Year: A Simple Way to Refresh Your Home

Each year, Pantone names a Color of the Year, and by February it’s everywhere. The best part? You don’t need a major remodel to enjoy the trend—just a few small updates can make your home feel fresh, current, and intentional. Meet 2026’s Color: Cloud Dancer This year’s pick, Cloud Dancer, is a soft, calming white.…
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Eight tips for a ‘fashionable’ garden in 2026

With spring around the corner, keen gardeners will be thinking about how they might approach 2026 to create a modern and relaxing sanctuary. Gardens are an unsung hero of property sales – buyers are heavily influenced by the beauty of a garden, especially if it’s also low-maintenance. If you’re thinking about selling your property this…
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Pantone Colour of the Year: A Simple Way to Refresh Your Home

Each year, Pantone announces its Colour of the Year—and by February, you’ll see it everywhere from home décor to fashion. The best part? You don’t need a full renovation to enjoy the trend. A few small updates can make your home feel fresh, current, and thoughtfully pulled together. Meet 2026’s Colour: Cloud Dancer This year’s…
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Seven red flags that will turn off buyers

How hard can it be to walk through a property and determine whether it should be the next home of your dreams? It sounds straightforward, doesn’t it?  Perhaps not. Questions such as size and layout will dominate your thinking. Location will be another issue you’ll have on your mind. And, on top of this, perhaps…
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Pantone Colour of the Year: An Easy Way to Refresh Your Home This Summer

Each year, Pantone announces its Colour of the Year, and by summer it’s popping up everywhere—from interiors to fashion. The good news? You don’t need a full renovation to make the most of it. A few thoughtful updates can instantly make your home feel lighter, fresher and perfectly in step with the season. Meet 2026’s…
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