While most garages are used for cars, storage and tools, there’s no need to keep these items crammed together in a messy and dirty array. Better yet, garages can be completely transformed into a home office, gym, hobby room, teenage retreat or guest room. Homeowners happy to stick with a thorough reorganisation of their garage…
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Gardening grows people’s outdoor imagination, creativity and joy as few other hobbies can. Better yet, both homeowners and renters who have never tried gardening before can succeed at this pastime with experience not always required for success. Green Thumb Lesson #1 Don’t be crushed by failures as even the wisest gardeners have them. Just like…
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A dream home can quickly become a nightmare if you have to cope with noisy, insensitive neighbours. Whether it’s late-night parties or barking dogs, there is literally no getting away from this issue. These tips may help you find a way to resolve your differences. Talk to difficult neighbours first Although it may be awkward…
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Are you thinking of building a small granny flat or stand-alone studio in your backyard? Part of the fun is coming up with some great interior design looks once the construction is completed. The trick is to consider its purpose first, followed by budget, size and accessibility. And you don’t have to spend big to…
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Another summer is over but for homeowners who live in flood-prone areas, now is a great time to consider how to protect your property for next season. Don’t forget the garden will also need protecting, so green thumbs start thinking about how to guard the greenery from dreaded downpours. Preparation is everything when it comes…
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New international research has highlighted New Zealand as one of the most expensive property markets in the world on a price-to-income ratio. Analyst company Statistica singled out Auckland as exceptionally “competitive” despite the city’s slow price decline last year. Nevertheless, it found average house sales prices of $1.2 million in North Shore City. It noted…
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New Zealand has won a global reputation for being the country where everyone wants to escape the world’s troubles. The fresh air, space and beautiful countryside make it one of the most desirable nations to live peacefully. There continues to be a steady trend in sales of lifestyle properties, despite the challenging economic conditions and…
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A new survey of New Zealand’s property market shows buyers are returning after a prolonged absence because of interest rate rises. However, they’re not making any quick decisions. More than half of agents (57%) have noted an increase in prospective buyers at open homes, according to the latest New Zealand Home Loans (NZHL) Property Report. …
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Interior designers are your key source of ideas and advice when organising a property renovation. They will examine spatial issues, recommend design and building improvements and work closely with your architect and other tradespeople. They should have a good understanding of building regulations and may also have access to trade discounts. Interior designers can provide…
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Fly screens are a common fixture on many homes, but what if you have an awkward window or door you need to protect? Retractable fly screens are the perfect answer for extra-wide or unusual spaces in your home, such as bi-fold and French doorways or casement and awning windows. Retractable fly screens can also add…
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