Buyers and Investors Seize Opportunities as the Market Heats Up

Posted on February 13, 2025

If you're contemplating an upgrade or purchasing your first home, now is a great time to assess market conditions that could work in your favor.Across New Zealand, listings have surged to record levels, while the Official Cash Rate (OCR) has dropped from its July peak of 5.25% to 4.25%. The Reserve Bank of New Zealand's aggressive rate cuts have he... read more

Catch the Last of the Summer Buyers with These Six Tips

Posted on February 03, 2025

If you believe that summer is the prime time to achieve the best price for your property, there’s still time to take advantage of the remaining warm weeks and impress potential buyers.Late summer can be a strong selling period, especially for homes with desirable outdoor features like a pool, entertainment area, or even a tennis court. However, rus... read more

Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

Posted on January 30, 2025

Ingredients:225g dried pasta of choice1 tablespoon olive oil125g onion, finely chopped3–4 cloves garlic, minced1 tablespoon butter450g chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces½ teaspoon each: Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, salt, and pepper250ml heavy cream50g Parmesan cheese, grated50g sun-dried tomatoes, cho... read more

10 Paint Colors Set to Trend in 2025

Posted on January 13, 2025

The buzz is real—Benjamin Moore has unveiled its Colour of the Year 2025 alongside a stunning Colour Trends Palette, and it’s a feast for the eyes. These 10 shades capture the pulse of today’s design trends while pointing toward the future of interiors.This year, the focus shifts away from the bold and overly saturated hues of recent seasons. Inste... read more

Banketstaaf (Dutch Christmas Log)

Posted on December 10, 2024

Ingredients400 g almond paste2 eggs1 sheet fresh puff pastryInstructionsPreheat your oven to 200°C and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. Roll out the puff pastry and slice it into two long strips.Create the almond filling by combining the almond paste with one egg. Mix and knead the mixture until smooth.Divide the almond fill... read more

Is the Property Market Finally Rebounding?

Posted on December 09, 2024

There’s growing optimism that New Zealand’s property market is making a comeback, fueled by a third consecutive cut to interest rates.The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has slashed the Official Cash Rate (OCR) by another 0.5% to 4.25%. While it’s still early days for the latest reduction, the effects of previous cuts are already evident.Real estate ag... read more

Five Smart Strategies for Navigating a Market Rebound

Posted on November 28, 2024

With a recent 0.5% interest rate cut, savvy New Zealand buyers have a prime opportunity to act strategically before the market gains momentum. The Reserve Bank has now reduced rates by a full 1% in just a few months, setting the stage for change. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, purchasing your first home, or investing, it’s time to consider y... read more

5 Buying Tips to Stay Ahead of the Market Rebound

Posted on November 18, 2024

With the Reserve Bank trimming interest rates by a full 1% over recent months, now’s the time for Kiwi buyers to act strategically. Whether you're upgrading, downsizing, investing, or buying for the first time, the window to make your move before prices start climbing is tightening.After a couple of years of market uncertainty, we’re finally seeing... read more

Creamy Chicken Sausage Orzo Skillet

Posted on November 07, 2024

Ingredients1 tbsp olive oil (or avocado oil)5.4kg spicy chicken or venison sausage, sliced (New Zealand venison sausage adds a uniquely Kiwi touch)6 cloves garlic, minced1 cup orzo2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth1/4 cup full-fat canned coconut milk1 tbsp soy sauce 1 tsp onion powder1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)1/2 tsp black peppe... read more

Five Tips for Buyers to Prepare for a Likely Market Rebound

Posted on November 05, 2024

With the recent 0.5% cut in interest rates, New Zealand buyers should start thinking strategically about the best time to enter the market.The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has now lowered rates by a full 1% in recent months, creating a brief window for buyers to finalize their strategy before prices begin rising again. This impacts everyone—from upg... read more