Spring has always been one of the busiest and most effective times to sell a home in New Zealand. Warmer weather, longer days and blooming gardens naturally show off properties at their best, while many buyers are motivated to move before the end of the year.
This spring, the backdrop is slightly different: there are more homes on the market than in recent years, giving buyers greater choice. At the same time, property prices remain steady, meaning well-presented homes are still attracting strong interest.
Here’s why spring 2025 offers plenty of opportunity for sellers.
1. Prices are stable, even with more listings
According to REINZ’s August 2025 data, the national median house price sat at $761,000, only 0.5% lower than a year earlier. Excluding Auckland, prices actually lifted 1.5% year-on-year to $690,000. The House Price Index also rose slightly month-on-month, showing values are holding steady.
However, supply is noticeably higher. There were 8,769 new listings in August (up 9% compared to last year), with 30,000 properties for sale nationally. For buyers, that means more choice. For sellers, it reinforces the importance of making your property stand out through presentation and the right sales strategy.
2. Buyer activity builds in spring
Although sales volumes were down 3.7% year-on-year in August, buyer demand tends to lift as the weather warms. Many people who held back during winter re-enter the market and families are often keen to secure a home before the Christmas break or the new school year.
Open homes typically see stronger attendance in spring and auction rooms are often busier, particularly for well-located or family-friendly properties.
3. Homes look their best
Spring naturally gives sellers an edge. Gardens are greener, flowers are in bloom and longer daylight hours make interiors feel brighter and more welcoming. Outdoor areas—lawns, decks, and patios—are more appealing too, which is important as buyers increasingly value usable outdoor space.
A little preparation goes a long way: mowing lawns, tidying gardens, decluttering interiors and even a fresh coat of paint can all help create a strong first impression.
4. Faster campaigns, motivated buyers
Spring sales campaigns often move more quickly. Auctions and tenders typically run on a three-to-four week timeline and many buyers are motivated to complete their purchase before the end of the year.
With the median time to sell currently sitting at 48 days (unchanged from last year), motivated buyers could help shorten this timeframe for well-priced and well-presented homes.
5. Twilight and mid-week open homes
Daylight saving allows for mid-week or twilight open homes, which can attract busy professionals or families who can’t always make it to weekend viewings. Evening inspections also highlight lifestyle features like outdoor entertaining areas, lighting and gardens, helping properties stand out in a competitive market.
6. Family homes in high demand
Spring is when families start looking to secure a property before the school year ahead. Homes in sought-after school zones, or those close to transport and amenities, tend to attract strong enquiry at this time of year. Marketing these features prominently can help boost buyer interest.
The outlook for spring sellers
With more listings on the market, sellers this year will face greater competition. But the fundamentals of spring remain strong: motivated buyers, appealing seasonal presentation and stable property values.
For homeowners considering a sale, the key will be tailoring your marketing and pricing strategy to ensure your property stands out. In a market where choice is abundant, first impressions matter more than ever.
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