Blog

Looking to renovate your kitchen on a budget? With a touch of style and some DIY know-how, Kelly did just that. Here’s her story. Built in the 1950’s, our home inherited the narrow galley-style kitchen of its era. In its compact form, like many old homes, the kitchen was small and dark, lacked storage andRead more

Remember to cancel: ☐ Newspaper and/or milk delivery. ☐ Telephone, internet and cable TV. ☐ Gas, water and electricity (arrange a final meter reading).   Organise for moving day: ☐ Obtain supply of boxes (the supermarket can be one supplier). ☐ Get packaging tape and heavy marker pens. ☐ Arrange for furniture removal (get quote,Read more

If you have an empty space in the backyard just right for a granny flat or self-contained dwelling, it might be the perfect way to add some extra rental income or provide for a growing family. Here is a list of things to consider before you start building. Will it pay off? Depending on theRead more

If you’re reclining on the deck of your Bach thinking the place could use a bit of a spruce up, Resene have a few ideas for inspiration. As coastal areas have been developed, it’s common to find traditional Kiwi baches in amongst modern architectural dream homes. Owners of both yearn for the pleasures of the greatRead more

Moving to a new town or city can be overwhelming, particularly if you’re trying to choose a neighbourhood to buy a home in. While it’s true that what a great neighbourhood looks like can differ person to person, all great neighbourhoods do share some common factors that are universally appealing. Here we explore 10 signsRead more

I’m starting this story with full disclosure – my entrance way is a currently a disaster zone. We’re mid-reno, have chipped up the old tiles leaving a dusty landing, ripped carpet off the stairs revealing families of borer, and there’s no storage in sight resulting in a tumble of my kids’ shoes greeting you onRead more

At an auction, the purchase price of a property is determined through competitive bidding. By doing this you can be sure you’re negotiation fairly and on the same terms as all other interested buyers. Before you start waving around that auction paddle, here are seven things to think about: 1. Do your homework Start attendingRead more

There’s a lot of talk about what adds value and attracts buyers when it comes to getting a good price for your property. But just as important are they key things about the property that will put most buyers off: Bad smells. Prior to your first open home or viewing make sure your house isRead more

If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, or you just want to make your house the best it can be, home improvements can be worthwhile and very satisfying – but it’s important that you plan them carefully. Some improvements offer a better return on your investment, while others might not add anyRead more

The property market is always a hot topic of discussion.  And while there’s plenty of advice out there for first time buyers, taking a step up or down the property ladder can be a different journey. If you’re looking to sell, here are six nuggets of advice:   1. Decide what you’re looking for  BeforeRead more