Along with your kitchen, your bathroom is the most widely used and indispensable area in your house. It can also be the most expensive to update and repair as both electrical and plumbing work may be needed. So, choose fixtures and fittings such as tapware carefully and with an eye on your wallet. Let’s take…
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When you think of tinted windows, it’s usually cars, rather than your home, that come to mind. But your home can also benefit from the privacy, security, energy savings and value that tinted windows provide when used on your car. Window tinting film comes in different formats and price ranges; and you won’t lose sight…
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Keen green thumbs or those who enjoy spending their downtime outdoors will soon notice if the garden retaining wall has seen better days. As with all parts of a house or garden, these walls require regular maintenance to stay in the best shape. It is wise to remember that retaining walls are usually a safety…
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It’s hard to believe households once managed without the modern simplicity of clothes washing machines. Yet washing machines as we know them have only been widely available and relatively affordable since the 1950s. Ancient times The Romans were the first people to recreate clothes washing into a commercial business with “fullone” men undertaking public clothes…
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You don’t have to be a green thumb or have a big garden to experience the special joy of picking and eating homegrown produce. No gardening experience is needed to do this and both homeowners and renters can grow these gardens, even if you only have a balcony. Plus, with grocery prices higher than ever,…
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In a perfect world, people could leave their doors and windows wide open 24/7 without fear of unwanted intrusions. Those who live in remote areas may still be able to do so but, if you live in the suburbs, you will want to put security first. A surprisingly high number of thieves enter homes through…
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Rules around home loans in New Zealand may be about to change, possibly dampening prospects of another boom that would put ownership further beyond reach for those trying to enter the property market. Changes are expected mid-year to the Debt-to-Income rules that govern how much and in what circumstances a lender can issue a mortgage…
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The New Zealand lifestyle property market ended 2023 on a positive note, with $432 million in total sales during December. The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand data showed this was up from $411 million the previous year. Sales volumes increased as the year ended, with 1,297 lifestyle properties sold in the three months ended…
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We can all enjoy a sigh of relief now that the busy holiday season is over for another year. But, in the aftermath, a few small tasks should always be carried out to keep your home in good order. One job is to do a big declutter and eject unwanted gifts, broken toys and old…
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Creating a romantic setting in your home to celebrate Valentine’s Day is a wonderful way to express your love for someone special. An increasing number of couples are opting for a home-based Valentine’s Day dinner because it can be busy in restaurants on this special day. Your home is the perfect, romantic sanctuary from all…
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