Tag: country_nz

Interest rate hike may mean it’s time to review your mortgage

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) has introduced its fourth consecutive interest rate rise in a dramatic attempt to rein in rapidly rising inflation.  The 0.5% increase is designed to try to stop inflation breaking the 7% barrier and potentially stalling the economy. It was the biggest increase in 22 years, taking the Official…
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5 ways to assess a property’s price

With the market stronger than ever, there’s never been a better time for buyers to learn the basics of assessing a property’s price before making an offer or attending an auction. Valuation is not a perfect science. You can never tell in a booming market when an auction will perform to expectation or go stellar…
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How to make your garage a winning feature

One of the challenges with preparing your home before a sale is the essential declutter designed to help give prospective buyers the best possible impression of your property. Nothing impacts on a buyer’s perception of room size more than clutter. Not only is it unsightly, it leaves buyers with the impression the room isn’t big…
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9 ways to declutter when you downsize

The decision to downsize is often emotional, requiring you not only to say goodbye to the family home that holds so many memories but let go of possessions that no longer have a place in your life. Downsizing remains an important option for those approaching later years and looking for less stress. Once the kids…
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How to create a beautiful ensuite

Installing a brand new bathroom is a great way to prepare your house for sale and achieve the maximum possible sale price. Brand new bathrooms and kitchens have the most impact on buyers during inspections, and they will certainly set your home apart from most of the properties currently for sale in the  neighbourhood. Planning…
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8 ways to put your laundry in the limelight

Believe it or not, the humble laundry is emerging as an influential part of the home for today’s buyers and renovators. Upstaged by new kitchens and bathrooms, many buyers rarely gave a thought to the laundry beyond its practical function. Until now. New interior designs and increasingly sophisticated washing machines have put the laundry at…
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7 affordable ways to make your home feel new again

When you’re thinking about placing your home on the market, one of the first thoughts is whether you need to renovate before selling or how much work you really need to do to get your home ready. Nobody likes leaving money on the table, and it would be a crying shame if you failed to…
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8 ways to put your laundry in the limelight

Believe it or not, the humble laundry is emerging as an influential part of the home for today’s buyers and renovators. Upstaged by new kitchens and bathrooms, many buyers rarely gave a thought to the laundry beyond its practical function. Until now. New interior designs and increasingly sophisticated washing machines have put the laundry at…
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8 mistakes to avoid when selling

Your home is your greatest financial asset and there’s nothing more frustrating than seeing buyers walk away.  First impressions are essential for inspections to be a success. At the very least, you want the front of your home and the interior to look neat, tidy and welcoming. As experienced local agents, we spend a lot…
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7 beautiful plants that are toxic to pets

Plants are a wonderful way to give your home a special lift, especially if you’re preparing for sale and want to embrace the latest fashions in interior design. Whether you’re decorating a bathroom or an open plan living area, judicious use of indoor plants captures the back-to-nature vibe that so many designers favour currently. As…
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