It makes me smile when I read and listen to the current media hype around the residential market.  The same media from 2008 to 2010/11 were proffering the consistent opinion that the market would drop 30-40%.  What happened?  In short, don’t believe everything you read, particularly around sale prices versus CV’s – generalisations are not meaningful.

There has been much comment about the overseas/international buyer factor and its influence on local house prices.  Our observation is that this is a central Auckland phenomenon that has been further fuelled by a perfect storm of buyer pressures – namely a drift to Auckland, Christchurch residents in particular deciding to move, low interest rates and a shortage of available homes given the lack of construction in recent years.  

With the Christmas deadline looming, there are also many Auction dates arriving and with them, decisions being made.  Yes, the market is extremely active.  We note however, in many cases, buyers (currently spoilt for choice) bidding up to a point, then moving on to the next one.  There are premiums being paid, the market is however highly selective. 

Technology continues to push in every area, with smart phones quickly becoming standard issue we have instituted the use of QR codes on all our signs.

If you have a smart phone, you simply download a free QR Code App, scan the image and hey presto!