Blog - LJ Hooker

23 November 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

From Viewing to Buying: How Floor Plans Transform Property Sales

Discover the power of floor plans in transforming property sales. Learn how they help buyers visualise and plan their future space, and why they are a valuable marketing tool for sellers.

21 November 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Your Guide to Navigating House and Land Packages

Discover the benefits of purchasing a house and land package, including affordability, customisation options, and potential for future development. Get answers to key questions in this informative guide.

20 November 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Declutter You Home to Prepare It for Sale

With all the effort you are putting into listing your property, it is crucial you maximise your chances to get the best price. Decluttering your house before selling is a great way to stack the odds in your favour and find the best buyer.

15 November 2023 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

How to Prepare Your Home for Santa’s Visit

Santa and his eight reindeer will be on their way to your house soon, so it is imperative you take a few necessary precautions to protect your home and furniture.

10 November 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

How to Buy a Home as a Couple

Learn how to navigate the process of buying a home as a couple with these valuable insights. From setting a budget to making an informed offer, this guide will help you create a strong foundation for your future together.

8 November 2023 | Lyall Russell

Investor's Guide to Renovating Your Rental Property

Maximise the profitability of your rental property with our Investor's Guide to Renovating. Learn when and how to make strategic renovations that attract high-quality tenants and increase rental returns.

4 November 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

What Are Virtual Property Appraisals (And How Do They Work)?

As more and more aspects of our lives migrate online, real estate recently picked up its pace and adopted digital tools to offer consumers a better experience. As a result, 3D tours, virtual inspections, online auctions or even virtual staging have now become commonplace. And so have virtual property appraisals.

9 October 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

A Buyers Guide to Navigating the Real Estate Market

The real estate buying process can be daunting, but buying a house doesn't need to be scary. Understanding the buying process, from searching for a property, getting your finances in order and buying the process will ensure you have knowledge on your side.

4 October 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Top Reasons to Get a Property Inspection Before You Sell

As a seller, if you get a building inspection done before your property hits the market, it will uncover whether you have any issues. This will set you up for a more successful sale.

1 October 2023 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

Selling a Rental Property: Key Considerations and Strategies

Selling a rental property can be a complex process, especially when tenants are involved. Having tenants in the property while selling often makes financial sense for investors.

17 September 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Preparing Your House for an Open Home

When selling, first impressions count. Spending a little bit of time and energy to ensure your property is presented in the best possible light can go a long way in attracting more potential buyers, achieving a higher sales price and selling in a quicker timeframe.

15 September 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Revitalising Your Home Office: A Splash of Creativity, Functionality, and Vibrant Colours

In the contemporary landscape of remote work and home-based learning, our perception of home offices has undergone a significant transformation.

8 September 2023 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

The Benefits of Using a Property Manager for Your Investment Property

Investing in property can be a lucrative venture, but it comes with its share of responsibilities and challenges.

15 August 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Diving into Property Investment with Modest Capital

Property investment stands as a compelling route to shape financial prosperity and secure a brighter future.

8 August 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Exploring Fresh Beginnings: Navigating Property Sales Post-Divorce

Life takes unexpected turns, and few changes are as significant as navigating the intricate path of divorce. For those facing the prospect of selling a shared property due to separation, the journey is not without its unique challenges.

25 July 2023 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

Escape to the Tropics: Transform Your Home into a Paradise Haven

Yearning for a tropical getaway but unable to follow your friends to Bali or the Cook Islands? No worries! You can still experience the serenity and relaxation of your favourite tropical retreat without leaving the comfort of your home.

13 July 2023 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Considering Purchasing a New Build? Here's What You Need to Know

If you're considering buying a house, one important decision you'll face is whether to purchase an existing property or buy off the plan.

9 July 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Unlock the Potential: Enhance Your Rental Income with Simple Property Improvements

Maximising the rental income of your property is a top priority for savvy property investors. Fortunately, boosting your rental returns doesn't have to be a daunting or expensive task.

28 June 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

From Energy Drain to Money Gain: Smart Ways to Reduce Your Power Bill

Feeling a sense of unease when your monthly electricity bill arrives is all too common. Despite your efforts to monitor your power consumption, the amount due can take an unexpected toll on your budget.

12 June 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Maintaining a Weatherproof Rental Property: Essential Tips for Landlords

As a responsible landlord, it's crucial to prioritise the upkeep of your rental property. You want to ensure it is comfortable for your tenants and meets Healthy Homes standards.

6 June 2023 | Dave Young - LJ Hooker Rural Sector Manager | 4 mins

Exploring New Zealand's Rural and Lifestyle Property Market Amidst Changing Interest Rates

Uncertainty has been a popular word recently. Uncertainty is why people have been slower to buy property. Uncertainty is why people have not wanted to commit to borrowing more money. Uncertainty is why many people have decided to sit back and see how the market plays out before making investment decisions.

4 June 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Is it Time to Buy a House? Key Signs to Assess Your Readiness

Planning to take your first steps onto the property ladder? Timing is everything in the real estate market, and deciding when to buy a house can feel like a million-dollar question.

24 May 2023 | Lyall Russell

Scents That Help Sell Houses

Enter any residence, and it's not the arrangement or design that leaves a lasting impression, but rather the scent.

10 May 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

A Homeowners Guide: What to Do if You Can’t Pay Your Mortgage

Owning a home is a significant accomplishment, but sometimes unexpected financial challenges can make it difficult to meet mortgage payments.

8 May 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Starting Your Journey as a Real Estate Investor

Investing in real estate can be a lucrative way to build wealth over time.

30 April 2023 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Effective Ways to Keep Your Home Warm this Winter

Winter in New Zealand can be beautiful, but it can also be chilly.

17 April 2023 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Preparing Your Home Before Going on Holiday

Everyone loves a holiday. Whether it’s a mini break to the beach for a long weekend, or you are packing your suitcase and heading to the airport for an adventure abroad, you want to make sure your home is prepared before jetting away.

13 April 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Significant Life Events That Influence Real Estate Decisions

Life is a journey and it’s full of change. Just like life, real estate is a journey too that is influenced by decisions you make or what happens throughout your life.

3 April 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Getting your farm ready to sell

Farms are not just homes, they are investments, businesses, a place where families are raised, responsibilities are learnt and a place where people grow.

28 March 2023 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Preparing Your Home for Autumn

The temperature is cooling, trees are turning orange, autumn is well and truly here. While you have probably pulled on a couple of extra layers, you home probably need some adjustments before hitting the market.

23 March 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

What You Should Know Before You Rent a Property

Renting a property can be an exciting time. This is going to be your home, a place where you will grow and where you will spend a lot of your time. Before you sign that contract, it's important to be informed and prepared for that commitment.

5 March 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Making a Smart Financial Move – Refinancing your Mortgage

Refinancing your home loan can be a smart financial move.

27 February 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Staging Your Home to Sell – How to Get Attention in a Competitive Market

Selling a home is a big decision, and it’s important to maximise your chances of selling quickly and at the best possible price. That’s where home staging comes in.

13 February 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Benefits of Having a Pet-Friendly Rental

Whether it be a cat, dog, bird, horse or rabbit – pets are part of so many families across New Zealand. They are seen as family members, and many pet owners will make life decisions with their ‘fur-baby’ in mind.

8 February 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Getting Your House Weather-Ready

Extreme weather events can happen at any time, and if you are not prepared it can cause significant damage to your home.

12 January 2023 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Paying Off Your Mortgage Faster – A Path to Financial Freedom

An eye watering mortgage is a reality for many homeowners across New Zealand. With a 20 percent deposit to buy a house and the rest on loan, with repayments spread across 30 years, many Kiwis pay the minimum – but there are benefits to putting extra cash towards your mortgage.

5 January 2023 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Making Your Living Room Perfect

Your living room is a place to relax and to get comfortable. It is the perfect spot in your home to create a haven of relaxation. An area where you can come home, kick off your shoes, and unwind with a good book or a little bit of telly.

15 December 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Making Your Rental Yours Without Breaking the Rules

Home renovations shows are always a source for inspiration, giving you ideas of what your dream home could be. Needless to say, if you are a renter, your ability to renovate your home is limited.

1 December 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Tips to Help Master Your Home Renovation

Renovation projects can be rollercoaster events. It is an exciting journey, but it is one that can be full of surprises along the way. While it would be great to be able to fast-forward to the end of your renovation project to enjoy your new home, you will enjoy it even more knowing the hard work put into it.

29 November 2022 | Dave Young - LJ Hooker Rural Sector Manager | 4 mins

Rural and Lifestyle Fieldays 2022 Report

Inflation, interest rates and the cost of diesel are all up, and those three factors significantly impact our back pocket and how profitable our farms can be.

13 November 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Create a Comfortable Home with Natural Light

Flooding your home with natural light not only saves on electricity bills but it also creates a warm and inviting home. When your home is the place you spend a lot of time indoors, you want it to be comfortable – natural light could be the solution.

1 November 2022 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

Setting You Up to Successfully Sell Your Home

Buying a property can be one of the most challenging decisions you make, but when it comes to selling that home, it can be a hectic time too.

18 October 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Mistakes To Avoid When Investing In Property

nvesting in property is a dream for many. It is an investment that you physically own, and like former US President Franklin D. Roosevelt said: “Real estate cannot be lost or stolen, nor can it be carried away. Purchased with common sense, paid for in full, and managed with reasonable care, it is about the safest investment in the world”.

13 October 2022 | Shannon Vos | 4 mins

The Ultimate Guide to Painting With Shannon Vos

Painting can be one of the simplest jobs, but it can also cause the biggest headaches. Our ambassador Shannon Vos shows us how to paint like a pro.

5 October 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Expert Home Renovation Advice – Mistakes to Avoid

Before and after renovation photos are captivating. Whether they appear on our social media feeds, or we see them in magazines, transformation between the two snaps make the renovation process look easy.

15 August 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Guide to Preparing Your Home for the Spring Selling Season

Spring is an excellent time to sell your property for a variety of reasons. As the seller, you will want to prepare your home in the right way, as this gives you the best chance of attracting great buyers, achieving a higher sales price, and, ultimately, locking in a successful sale.

31 July 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

How to Encourage Tenants to Renew Their Lease

The end of the year often marks the end of rental leases, and finding new tenants can be a time-consuming and costly exercise for landlords and property managers.

13 July 2022 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Respecting Tenants When You’re Selling

Selling with tenants can be an opportunistic time; investors will automatically be attracted to assets which are tenanted, especially on a long-term tenancy.

5 July 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

What Do Renovators and First Home Buyers Want?

Many people would argue that home buyers have a similar wish list when it comes to buying a home, regardless of whether they are single, a professional couple, a young family or a retiree.

4 July 2022 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

Where to Buy - Country or City?

There are no two ways about it, buying a house is a big decision. You can spend months compiling a list of all the things a potential home must have.

15 June 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Preparing Your Kids for Moving

Moving homes can be exciting, nerve-wracking, and disruptive. There are many pieces of the puzzle that need to come together during this process, but do not undermine how unsettling this can be on your children.

9 June 2022 | Lyall Russell | 7 mins

Measuring the Value a Bathroom Renovation Adds to Your Home

There is a lot of value in renovating your bathroom. While it can offer a good return on investment, it is a huge undertaking, so to make the most of this room it is critical not to overcapitalise.

26 May 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Practical Advice to Successfully Selling Your Home in Winter

Although the weather is not usually at its best during the colder months, people search for property all year round. In fact, selling your home in winter can even have its own benefits.

12 May 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Pointers for Getting Ready to Buy a House

We may often ask ourselves when is the best time to buy a house? There are many signs that can indicate a person’s readiness to purchase a home, but there are also others who might suggest the time is not right.

6 May 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Make Your Rental Property Stand Out

With new rental developments being completed, and a range of variety in the types of rental properties, landlords need to make their homes stand out from the rest.

27 April 2022 | Lyall Russell | 7 mins

Simple Ways to Make Your Home Look Great From the Street

First impressions mean a lot in many parts of life, and they are just as important when it comes to selling your home.

11 April 2022 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

Design the Perfect Nursery for Your Newborn

When you have a newborn on the way, there is a lot to plan for. It is an exciting time as your family is about to grow. If planning what your child is going to wear is not exciting enough, you also have a whole room to decorate.

28 March 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Best Practice to Adding Plants to Your Home

Indoor plants have been shown to have many health benefits, such as lifting moods and reducing stress, which is one reason they have become an important part of interior decorating.

10 March 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Top Tips for Adding Equity to Your Home

Your mind might be instantly going towards those big ticket items, and you might be asking yourself where can I add another bedroom? Is there room for a pool or a granny flat? Read our top tips to discover more.

4 March 2022 | Lyall Russell | 7 mins

Top Tips for Buying an Investment Property

Adding an investment property to your portfolio can be an effective strategy for building wealth and securing your future.

14 February 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Avoid Over Capitalising on Your Home Renovations

Many New Zealanders choose to stay and renovate their home rather than sell. Yet, it is essential that you consider whether your renovation will add value.

11 February 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Top Tips to Consider When Upsizing Your Home

There are many things you may be considering as you start your search for a larger home. You might have started to feel you have outgrown your current home.

4 February 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Get the Most Value From Your Home When Selling

Your home is where you create family memories, grow as a person, a place part of your life is attached to. When it comes to selling it is only natural to get the most value possible.

26 January 2022 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Preparing for Moving Day

One of the most exciting, yet stressful days is on the horizon – moving day is almost here!

17 January 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Do Your Homework Before Making Offers on Homes

We look at a case study that explores what to do now that you've climbed property ladder and what you should do before making an offer.

14 January 2022 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Style Your Living Room With Wall Art

Family photos, abstract images, landscapes and animals are all regular features on walls across New Zealand. No one likes a bare wall, but you want to strike the balance to make sure you have wall art that adds personality and interest to your spaces.

1 December 2021 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

All You Need to Know to Prepare for a Summer Sale

Everything is at its best in summer, this makes your property look its best, and buyers are more willing to head out and view open homes when the weather is on their side.

10 November 2021 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Ways to Find and Keep Good Tenants for Your Rental Properties

While an investment property is a huge asset, so are responsible, long-term renters, but finding a good tenant for your rental doesn’t have to be a headache.

8 November 2021 | Lyall Russell | 7 mins

Property Auctions Fast and Simple

Selling a home by auction can be both exciting and nerve-wracking but it's a process that is often misunderstood.

14 October 2021 | Lyall Russell | 7 mins

What to Consider Before Buying Your First Lifestyle Block

After a period of lockdowns, travel restrictions or just growing tired of being boxed into a densely populated community, the extra space that comes with a lifestyle block can be tempting.

11 October 2021 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

Real Estate Career ‘Fulfilling’

The real estate profession has become one of New Zealand's top 10 most popular jobs (*source Careers NZ) for the very first time and it's not hard to see why.

6 October 2021 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Putting Your Best Foot Forward When Preparing a Rental Application

Finding the perfect rental to call home can be a challenge, especially in a competitive rental market. Property inspection can be frequented by dozens of others who, like you, feel that rush when you have found the perfect home, in the right neighbourhood and within your budget.

28 September 2021 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Your Guide to Spring Cleaning Your Home

After a wet and cold winter, spring is finally here and what better time to get stuck into a deep spring clean!

13 September 2021 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

What You Need to Know When Downsizing

From the moment most people start their property journey they have dreams of large mansions, sprawling gardens and plenty of space. But there comes a time when you may not reach those dreams, but you know it is time for a lifestyle change and a little less space.

27 August 2021 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Making the Auction Room Digital – What You Need to Know About Online Property Auctions

Recent restrictions meant we had to stay home and could not host open homes or auctions. To be able to continue to help people buy and sell properties, the real estate industry had to embrace digital alternatives, and online auctions were one of these.

13 August 2021 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Don’t Rule Out Staging When Selling Your Property

Selling an empty home can be tough. Some buyers struggle to conjure up the imagination to visualise how an empty room can be easily turned into a warm, inviting home.

27 July 2021 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Don’t Wait for Spring Before Getting Into the Garden

When you flip the calendar to realise it is August, you know that spring is just around the corner. Making this month the perfect time to dust off your spade and prepare your garden for summer.

12 July 2021 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Where Should You Add Value To Your Home?

If you are considering selling, or you want to invest in your house to make it more homely yet increase its value, then this is a question that has weighed on many minds.

26 May 2021 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Taking the Plunge, Deciding to Sell Your Home

Homes are a place where we create memories. It is a place where we grow as people and celebrate life milestones. However, there are times in life where you must make the decision to move on and find your next family home.

15 April 2021 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Getting a Former Rental Ready for Market

Long term rental properties do not tend to get the cosmetic updates that homeowners invest into their own properties. While the majority of rental homes are in tip top structural condition and meet legal requirements, they may look tired or not as inviting.

12 April 2021 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Preparing Your Home for a Hassle-Free Winter

The days are getting shorter, the temperature has dropped, and you always grab a coat when you leave the house - winter is nearly here.

1 April 2021 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Making Your Home Appealing for a Winter Sale

Nobody likes a cold and draughty home, and if you are getting your home ready for a winter sale, you want people to know how warm and toasty their future home will be. Before Jack Frost starts nipping at your toes, and ice crystals blanket your lawn, you want to plug all those gaps that allows cold air to bring down the temperature in your home.

30 March 2021 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

How to Get the Most Money Selling Your House

When someone decides to sell their property, their sights are often set on one goal: getting the best price. This may seem like a straightforward aim, however, there are lots of smaller moving parts to achieving this.

29 March 2021 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Top Tips for Renters to Save for a Home Deposit

Renting is a big expense in most people’s budget, so buying a home can often seem like just a dream. However, with tried and tested strategies it is undoubtedly a reachable goal. In just 18 months you could have built your savings enough for a deposit.

22 March 2021 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Small Steps Property Investors Shouldn’t Overlook to Be Great Landlords

The latest reforms to the Residential Tenancy Act have been an opportunity for all property investors to make sure their investment properties meet the new standards. The changes could also be a time to consider how you could better invest your time to maintain your property and look after your tenants.

25 January 2021 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Top Tips for Finding That Perfect Bach

Families across New Zealand ventured to the beach this summer. They got their dose of sun, sand and salt water. Folks enjoyed the slow and relaxing life, getting their toes wet, licking up the ice cream before it dripped down their fingers, and enjoying life with their family.

2 December 2020 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

Top Tips to Boost the Value of Your Home

The questions are endless when you start thinking about how you can add value to you home. Should you add another bedroom, build a pool or a granny flat, or would a garage be better? The list goes on.

12 November 2020 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Six Ways to Know if You Have Found the One

House hunting is a little bit like the modern approach to dating. You come across several pretty good matches, the photos look good online so you swipe right and arrange a viewing. Some don’t quite match up to expectations, others seem pretty alright, but how to know you have found THE one you want to buy?

5 October 2020 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

How to Add Value to Your Home With a Budget of $2,500

With a budget of $2,500, there is a fair bit you can do in a home when it comes to giving it a fresh, new look. If you are planning to sell soon, then maybe prioritise the kitchen and bathroom which are rooms that can make or break a sale.

19 September 2020 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

How to Style Your Outdoor Space to Sell in Spring

From your front door to your outdoor living area, styling your outdoor spaces is just as important as styling inside your home when preparing to sell your home.

4 September 2020 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

15 Free Eco-Friendly Ways to Spring Clean Your Home

Wipe away the winter cobwebs with a sensation spring clean.

19 March 2020 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

5 Things to Look For to Find the Right Real Estate Agent

To make sure you pick the right real estate agent to take care of selling your home, look for these 5 signs.

17 February 2020 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Preparing Kids and Pets to Move House

Children can become quite upset when moving house - whether it’s the unfamiliar surroundings or perhaps leaving friends behind.

14 January 2020 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Stress Reduction Strategies for Rental Inspections

Rental inspections are inherently stressful. There is an abundance of cleaning followed by an overwhelming worry that the landlord might find something wrong.

16 December 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

How to Make an Offer on a Property?

One of the most common ways people buy a property in New Zealand is by Private Treaty, better known as a negotiation – this is when a property is listed for sale with an asking price and potential buyers make offers in writing to the real estate agent who will then presents it to the vendor for consideration.

15 December 2019 | Lyall Russell

7 Tips for Keeping Cool This Summer

To enjoy summer, we have to combat the high temperatures and the sun that’s heating our homes. Here are some easy tips from our Summer Checklist.

14 December 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

10 Tips on How to Be a Successful Investor

What makes one investor better than another? Here are 10 tried and true steps successful investors use to help steer their decisions and to help them get the most out of their investment.

12 December 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Preparing Your Home for Holidays

Counting down the days until your holidays start? There's more to just packing your bags and hitting the road before the r 'n r commences.

9 December 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

How to Best Negotiate a Private Treaty Sale

A private treaty sale occurs when a property is listed for sale with an asking price, the buyer makes an offer to the agent, who then presents the offer to the seller, who can then decide whether or not to accept it.

4 December 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Property Investing Basics - What to Look For in an Investment

Have you been like a cat looking at a fish bowl, looking into the New Zealand property markets only to find yourself unable to make that final commitment?

4 December 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Why Use Video to Sell Your Home?

The popularity of videos is growing and buyers love them.

25 November 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Questions to Ask a Home Loan Consultant

Are you looking to get a home loan but not sure where to start? Here are 10 important questions to ask home loan lenders to ensure you are choosing the right partner for you and one that is best aligned to your individual circumstances.

24 October 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Top 10 Moving House Tips

Huge congratulations you have sold your property! After the celebrations have calmed down, you need to start thinking about getting ready to move out and into your new home.

23 October 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

One Week to Moving Day Checklist

With only one week until you move out of your home, you are probably feeling a mix of emotions.

14 October 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

What to Expect at a Pre-settlement Inspection

A pre-settlement inspection is your buyer’s opportunity to inspect your property before the final payment is made.

1 October 2019 | Lyall Russell | 2 mins

What Not to Do on Auction Day

What not to do on auction day! You may think this is a weird topic, but understanding the big NOs is important.

1 October 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

How to Set a Reserve Price for Auction

As part of our on-going series on how to sell your property by auction, this blog looks at how to set a reserve price and what factors you should consider.

1 October 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

The Auctioneer’s Job and Rules of Auction

Essentially the role of the auctioneer is to control a public negotiation process where potential buyers are competing to buy a property.

30 September 2019 | Lyall Russell | 2 mins

Open Home Day Checklist

Your house has hit the market, and your open home day is here! Buyers are going to have the opportunity to inspect your property for the first time.

30 September 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Selling? Do You Understand the Key Auction Terms?

You may have heard many of these auction terms, but you may not know what they mean.

30 September 2019 | Lyall Russell | 6 mins

Selling by Auction - What to Expect on the Day

We’ve all seen the drama of an auction on TV - the auctioneer with their quick-fire speech, waving hands and pointing fingers.

23 September 2019 | Lyall Russell | 5 mins

14 Ways to Prepare the Outside of Your Home to Sell

We all know the importance of good curb appeal. It draws people in off the street and can make your home a bright star in your neighbourhood.

17 September 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

Day Before Inspection Day - What to Do

Your property is open for inspection tomorrow, so it is time to do some last minute jobs to help create the all-important WOW factor!

3 September 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

9 Tips to Style your Apartment to Sell

98 percent of our agents say that styling can make a big difference when you are selling. It can help add value, attract more buyers and help your property sell faster.

1 September 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Furnished vs Unfurnished Rental

We are often asked by our investors whether they should lease their property out furnished or unfurnished.

21 August 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Preparing Your Home to Maximise Photo Potential

Great photos are a vital element of a successful sales campaign. Most people’s first impression of your property will not be up close and personal, it will be through the photographs presented in the online listing.

11 July 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

How to Attract High-Quality Tenants for Your Property

An investment property can be a huge asset. Naturally, landlords want high-quality tenants to make the venture as profitable and stress free as possible.

11 June 2019 | Lyall Russell | 2 mins

Money Saving Tips to Moving Into a New Home in Winter

Moving into a new home sure is an exciting prospect. Unless, of course, you are moving into a freezer, not literally. If you are buying a property in winter, it is essential that you make sure everything is warm as can be from the get go.

21 May 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Tips on How to Research the Real Estate Market

Whether you are looking to buy a new home or your next investment property, doing your research is critical, but knowing where to start can be tricky. Here is a look at some of the resources you have available at your fingertips and others that you can explore on foot.

30 April 2019 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

Hot Tips to Prep Your Property for an Autumn Sale

Autumn is a great time to sell. Buyers have well and truly settled into the year, most people are back at work, kids are in their school routine and those who have made a new year’s resolution to buy a new home, are eager and ready to home hunt.

27 March 2019 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

The Value of a Local Agent and Questions to Ask

Finding the right agent to sell your property is a big decision. Your home is probably the most valuable asset, then for you choosing the right agent will have a direct impact on how quickly you sell, how much you sell for and how many potential buyers are interested in your property and how much you sell for.

30 October 2018 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

What to Compromise on and What Not to When Buying

If you are anything like most buyers, you will undoubtedly have a wish list for your new home that is pages long, but few of us have a bottomless pit of money to fund our long wish list and we are therefore forced to make some compromises when buying.

29 August 2018 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

9 Tips to Sell Your Home Faster to a Younger Buyer

If you think about it, when you put your home on the market to sell, the next owner will most likely be younger than you are.

28 August 2018 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

8 Insider Tips to Achieve Your Property Investment Goals

A proven way to property investing success is to set yourself some clear and measurable goals.

14 August 2018 | Lyall Russell | 3 mins

What Is a Rental Appraisal

For property investors, putting up their home for rent is a good way to secure another stream of income.

1 August 2018 | Lyall Russell | 4 mins

4 Key Reasons Why Your Home Isn’t Selling

Have you not priced your home to sell?

26 May 2017 | Lyall Russell | 2 mins

Renting Basics: What to Do if You Have Pets

New Zealand is a nation of pet owners with more than 60 percent of New Zealand households owning a pet, which makes for plenty of tenants looking for a home for themselves and their furry family members.

23 August 2016 | Lyall Russell

Questions You Should Ask When Looking for a Flat

What to ask a landlord before renting a house is very important to ensure that you stay there happy for a long time.

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