Tag: country_nz

Victoria: New rental rules to promote safety and privacy

New legislation to improve the quality and safety of rental properties took effect in Victoria at the end of March. For landlords, this may require some expense to ensure the property meets the standards required by the new rules. Renters should also be aware of the changes and work with their agent so appropriate improvements…
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The best strategy to buy in a strong market is to stick to your plan

The strength of real estate has been breathtaking in the past few months, with media headlines exalting incredible prices above reserve as buyers compete for a limited number of properties on the market.   If you look across Australia, it’s odds-on all the capital cities will achieve double-digit growth in the residential sectors this year. For…
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Seven hints that it’s time to downsize

Your decision to downsize from the family home often starts with a nagging thought in the back of your mind. Perhaps your family home is starting to feel empty, or a little too big, and its maintenance may be becoming a real chore or cause for stress.  It can be hard to face up to…
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12 tips for furnishing your living room

One of the great pleasures of buying a new property or renovating an old one is to be able to tap into your imagination and creative spirit to decorate and furnish your dream. If you follow the basic rules of interior design, then you will be more than delighted with your final result. Some of…
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Six kitchen fashions you can’t ignore in 2021

Today’s buyers prioritise the kitchen more than any other room in a home – it’s where the family gathers and memories are created. And while other factors, such as location and the number of bedrooms, will always be significant influences, there’s no doubt a great kitchen will win the hearts of prospective buyers. As experienced…
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How to buy in a booming market

Sudden increases in property prices, such as the one we’re experiencing right now, is not a new phenomenon in real estate. While sellers might rejoice, buyers face an increasing financial challenge. Breaking into the market for the first time is formidable, and it can be daunting for owners who want to climb the property ladder…
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It’s a great time to sell and plan for what’s next

Property is currently a sellers market because demand for property is outstripping supply. This is supported by a stable and recovering economy, solid jobs market, historically low interest rates that appear locked in for at least the medium-term, plus an array of government subsidy and stamp duty discounts for first-time buyers.   The latest figures say…
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Five tips that make bath-buying easy

There’s plenty to think about when you start on a journey to renovate your bathroom or update items such as shower screen, vanity units and baths. A new-look bathroom can add thousands of dollars in value to your home, and it is one of the best ways to gain a return on investment when the…
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Breaking down the jargon of ‘under contract’

If you’re currently a first-time buyer, or even you’ve had experience in the real estate market before, you’ll have confronted a few examples of legal-sounding jargon that can be confusing. One term that causes a fair amount of head-scratching is “under contract”. You’ve no doubt have walked or driven past a property that’s been for…
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Eight ways to downsize and start a new life

Have you ever thought of wiping the slate clean to make a fresh start on your life?  Many of us have dreamed of doing something completely different with our lives but backed away from the inevitable upheaval. But it’s definitely possible to downsize your life – and it starts with your property and possessions. Many…
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