Tag: country_nz

Home building costs surging, but relief may be around the corner

Residential construction costs are accelerating at a record pace, according to the latest CoreLogic Cordell Construction Cost Index. Home building costs rose 3.4% in the September quarter and 9.6% in the year to September – both records. The Cordell index reflects the rate of change in the cost to build a 200sqm three-bedroom, two-bathroom, single-storey,…
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Spooky designs to haunt this Halloween

Forget hardwood floors, walk-in pantries, and eco-ratings. With everyone’s favorite holiday now upon us, these must-have design features this month will haunt you forever.  Below is a look at the spooky design ideas that are hellishly hot right now.  Wet-look walls Whether it’s wallpaper that spontaneously oozes slime or – for the more ambitious –…
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Seven secrets to a great kitchen renovation

Renovating a kitchen can be a lot of fun when you plan your project carefully, and it offers terrific financial rewards if you give it a spruce up before putting your home on the market. The kitchen is one of the most influential areas of a home in the eyes of buyers. It can contribute…
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Adding colour to your home without a paintbrush

One of the most common pieces of advice you’ll receive from an agent when you’re preparing to sell will be to suggest you tone down any bold colours in your home. Bright red feature walls and pink bedrooms are an agent’s nightmare because brash paintwork of any rainbow hue will likely send many prospective buyers…
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Finishing touches leave best impression

Many sellers experience nervousness and even pangs of anxiety as the deadline for their first open house looms large. It’s a big moment, of course. There’s a lot on the line and you want prospective buyers to have the best possible impression of your home. Owners focused on preparing their homes for this moment can…
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Top tips to prep for house hunting

Taking a little bit of time to be organised before you start house hunting will help ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible once you do find your dream home.  We’ve listed our top tips to avoid potential challenges and delays as you embark on this exciting process and move one step closer to…
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9-step guide to hiring a plumber

As a homeowner, at some point will need to call in a contractor to deal with a plumbing problem. Some of the jobs you may need help with are replacing your hot-water heater, putting in new pipes, unblocking a drain or fitting new taps. Building a relationship with a good local plumber will certainly prove…
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Seven ways to keep your house clean and safe

Keeping a clean home contributes significantly to the maintenance and value of your property, as well as ensuring your loved ones enjoy a safe and caring environment. Below are eight tips for keeping your home healthy and safe. We hope you find them helpful.  Chemical warning It’s easy to forget that we’re dealing with chemicals…
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Creating space for new work-life balance

Covid has been a major disruptor to the workforce but, for many, it’s also offered a positive change to how our employers view work-life balance. Many studies have now shown that workers simply will not be returning to the demands of pre-pandemic days. A survey conducted for the University of Sydney’s business school revealed that…
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Creating a small garden paradise

Did you know that creating a private outdoor paradise is possible no matter what size property you are able to afford? In fact, if you buy an apartment, townhouse or home on a small block, it’s often easier because the smaller the space you are working with, the smaller your budget for plants and outdoor…
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