Tag: country_nz

Choosing a great property manager

Property investors will soon discover that property management fees are one of their highest financial expenses. While this expense is tax deductible and investors aren’t legally required to engage a property manager, interstate or overseas investors in particular will find their lives far easier with one. Here’s why. Property manager tasks Property managers ensure investors…
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What to do when disaster hits

Insurance claims can be a tough part of the cleanup process if you get hit with a natural disaster. If you live in flood, cyclone or bushfire-prone areas, it is wise to ensure you have the correct insurance cover, and that it is up to date.  Coverage in high-risk areas can also come with a…
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Everything you need to know about mulch

Mulching is a key task for all green thumbs , but why do gardeners love mulch? Easy. It’s the perfect combination of plant defender, weed deterrer, moisture protector, soil guardian, temperature regulator and garden beautifier. Yes, all these qualities can be found in highly scented bags from the local nursery or garden warehouse. Be warned…
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The surprising plant that’s set-and-forget

Brilliant for their gorgeous spring colours, bulb flowers will bring joy to every green thumb,  in far more ways than one. And it’s the season right now to plant these special flowers. Bulbs are a surprisingly tough, set-and-forget plant which will thrive in pots and in all types of soil. They can be grown successfully…
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Market offers buyers a rare window of opportunity

A greater choice of properties is opening up for buyers across New Zealand as the real estate market continues to deal with the stubbornly high official cash rate (OCR) of 5.25%. Astute buyers are showing confidence in the future value of the market, making their move before rates begin to fall. As a respected agency…
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Home prices continue to recover

Owners waiting for prices to return to their peak of more than two years ago before selling will need to be patient, but the market is improving, and now may be a good time to act. Value projections for the New Zealand market suggest we’ll have to wait until the third quarter of 2025 before…
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Budget design updates for every home

With so many stores and websites offering budget-buy home décor offerings, it’s easy and cheap to give your space a lovely uplift. By thinking in simple and basic terms, a mini-renovation can have surprisingly dramatic results. New tapware Changing tapware is not necessarily an easy job but if it is already damaged or old, a…
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Making the most of your garage

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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Lessons for achieving a green thumb

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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Dealing with noisy neighbours

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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