latest findings on the lifestyle property market

The Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ) has shared its latest findings on the lifestyle property market, revealing a steady rise in sales with interesting differences across regions.

In the three months ending February 2024, there were 1,162 lifestyle properties sold, which is slightly up from previous periods. This shows a 10% increase in sales compared to the same time last year.

REINZ’s rural spokesperson, Shane O’Brien, mentioned that more people are buying properties with farmlets to avoid the high costs and delays of building new. There’s also less land available due to new rules on land subdivision. Many are interested in country living while staying near cities for the conveniences and work opportunities they offer, especially as remote work becomes more common.

Despite a 12.9% drop in the total number of lifestyle properties sold in the past year, the market’s total value was $6.03 billion. The median sale price for lifestyle properties was $936,750 in the last three months, a slight decrease from last year. However, the price for bare land went up by 11.1%, while farmlet properties saw a 4.5% decrease.

Some regions like Gisborne/Hawkes Bay and Bay of Plenty saw significant sales increases, while Otago and Manawatu-Wanganui experienced drops. Prices in some areas, like Manawatu-Whanganui and Wellington, have gone up, showing the varied performance of lifestyle properties across New Zealand.

Property listings have surged to levels not seen since 2015

Property listings have surged to levels not seen since 2015, with nearly 30% more houses up for sale. Meanwhile, house prices have inched up by 2.9% over the past year, according to the latest report from Real Estate New Zealand. The average asking price nationwide is now just under $887,000, up by $27,000 from last year. Central Otago boasts the highest average asking price, while the West Coast has the lowest, surpassing $500,000 for only the second time in 17 years.

According to Realestate.co.nz, the property market was quiet in 2023, with record-low listings for eight out of 12 months. Factors like high interest rates, living costs, and uncertainty due to the election kept transactions down. However, with inflation easing, new government policies, and more stable prices over the past 18 months, investors are returning to the market. Some are holding onto properties for tax benefits, while others are selling due to changes in rules like the brightline test being reduced to two years.

Sunny 3 Bedroom Brick Delight in St Andrews!

We are proud to present this charming 3 bedroom home in sought after Saint Andrews to the market! It’s a gorgeous gem, a hidden suntrap that is full of natural light with a modern interior, classic brick exterior, a fabulous covered deck and wonderful gardens. 

Just perfect for empty nesters, retirees, first home buyers, families and investors, it’s a wonderful forever home that will easily suit a wide range of buyers. One of the key features is the beautifully landscaped property with wonderful gardens to wander through, it’s a real hidden delight, lovely and private with fencing and hedging around the perimeter. 

The covered deck is a wonderful extension to the living space inside, it spills out from the lounge, creating a fabulous indoor-outdoor space that you’ll love. This is a wonderful spot to sit and enjoy an afternoon coffee, and you have the choice of sitting in the sun or soaking up the shade. There’s a little courtyard area to the left where you could put an outdoor table or your own swing or love seat, and a beautiful garden outlook to enjoy.

The open plan living area itself is lovely and light with fresh white walls, it has stunning hardwood floors, and it feels warm and welcoming. It has a heat pump for year round comfort, easy access outside, and it connects nicely to the sunny dining room. 

A gorgeous barn slider takes you through to the galley style kitchen, a lovely modern space where you can whip up your favourite family meals. It has a great aesthetic, with crisp cabinetry, a dark benchtop and a fabulous red splashback.

There are 3 bedrooms in total, all good sized rooms that will easily suit all ages. 

This is delightful home in a well-regarded area, it’s peaceful and private with sunny spaces and a garden outlook. Cinnamon Café is just down the road, it’s handy to St Andrews Golf Course, Te Rapa, the CBD and The Base.

For Sale: 80 Herbert Street, Kihikihi.

The Grass is Greener in Kihikihi

Why chase after the quarter acre dream when you can have more? Large sections are becoming harder to find, so get a hold of this lifestyle while you can. This brick home has 3 large bedrooms and a master bedroom complete with an ensuite and walk in wardrobe, making it perfect for big families who need a lot of space. The house is further equipped with 2 bathrooms, spacious lounge and family rooms, a modern kitchen and a double garage.

 

But the best bit? Head on over to the back, where a wide wooden deck gives way to expansive views of a luscious landscape. Plant native trees, start a veggie patch, leave the grass bare for running around on… the possibilities are endless! Relax with a good book and a glass of wine, or entertain friends and family with a BBQ beneath a pink sunset sky.  Inside, the grand entrance, carpeted floors and sliding glass doors make for an equally hospitable space. This property absorbs a lot of sunlight and comes with 3 heat pumps and an HRV system keeping it warm and dry.

 

Close to Kihikihi School, Kihikihi Domain, Te Awamutu Golf Course and State Highway 3, this conveniently located house is both desirable and practical. Make the move to your own slice of paradise today. Early viewings are highly recommended, so get in touch with Darren today.

Darren Harris: ARIZTO

 

 Darren Harris, Licensed and Experienced

Sell your home on Fixed rate: $7500

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darren@arizto.co.nz

022 351 9052