Update from Team Craig
Spring 2026

There are some signs of recovery in the current market. You have to look past the mainstream media reporting to find it. Better weather equals better results.

First home buyers and investors are making up approximately half the market sales right now. I would wager that’s because they both know further interest rate hikes on the horizon and so want to avoid higher repayments by getting on with it now rather than later. This sector of the market is fast moving, potentially too fast for the media to notice.

If you are one of the above, you’ll already know just how difficult it has become to get into this market based on the current buyer competition in these segments.

For those further up the property ladder, you must be wondering what alternate reality I’m talking about. Owners in the $900k up segment of the market have been experiencing a much different reality, and here’s why.

It’s down to human nature, and that is when faced with a difficult decision, most will do nothing rather than risk making the wrong decision. While mainstream media like Stuff publish articles saying worst market in 46 years, its little wonder buyers get gun shy.

Now, it’s not all their fault, but it certainly doesn’t help. Interest rates have been slowly climbing and we’re staring down the barrel of a general election. Historically, election years have always stalled the market. So, no surprises here.

However, we have been given some relief in the guise of the reserve banks intentions to further raise the official cash rate (OCR) increasing interest rates for buyers entering the market, this meant some got a wiggle on before facing higher rates or perhaps not even qualifying for finance at all.

Some just became paralysed into doing nothing, sighting they need to save more. The problem I see with this plan is that the interest rate increases coming effectively erode any additional savings they might accrue over the same period, putting these buyers in the same position later on, having perhaps missed out on their ideal home, or loss of capital gain on what they may have bought.

Unfortunately, there is no right or wrong answer as were all at a different stage of life and so what suits first home buyers may not be the way families are thinking, or retirees. Different markets move at varying paces, so not a one size fits all approach, I’m afraid.

We’re now seeing apartments in Auckland for instance being offered as mortgagee auctions due to an oversupply of these and developers struggle to meet their commitments. Town houses in Hamilton are starting to suffer a similar fate, although not quite as dire as the apartment market. So, there are opportunities out there for prospective buyers.

Although we’d all like to see a rapid turnaround after the election, the reality I suspect will be a delay until early 2027 where, having had Christmas and the summer holiday, potential buyers will again start looking in earnest.

Just remember, if you’re selling and buying in the same market, there’s little gain. The gains normally come from getting in or getting out.

Still available;
Retirement Friendly.
15 Pope Terrace, Leamington

Looking to downsize or lock-up and leave potential? Perhaps yearning for an easy care but spacious new home in order to free up your leisure time? Then you really need to view this.

Full of additional features for owner convenience, this contemporary home boasting three bedrooms plus office is sure to impress.

Security gates, cameras and alarm will give the next lucky owner that peace of mind for safety and security, while enjoying warmth and relaxation.

Double glazed, heat pumps, gas heating and an HRV system, the list goes on.

If you’ve got this far in the script, you obviously have interest. Best you view for yourself and discover the advantages this home offers.

Call the listing agent for viewing options and open home times

https://www.trademe.co.nz/a/property/residential/sale/waikato/waipa/leamington/listing/5906682419

I currently have cashed up out-of-town buyers looking to buy in the Hamilton/Cambridge areas

One needs easy care lock up and leave type property with 2 – 3 brms, preferably in the Hamilton area. Just sold so cashed up and ready to purchase now $650,000 budget.

Another looking for first home, so also cashed up. Prefer Hamilton or Cambridge but will consider options outside but close to the Ham/Cam area that fit the budget. 2 – 3 brms. Open to options. $780k budget

If you, or you know someone who is planning a move who has a home fitting this description, I’m sure they would both appreciate the contact.

Who knows? I may already have your buyer.

021 272 7737 Craig

When the days begin to get longer and the daffodils start popping out of the ground, you know you’ve made it through winter’s long haul. But as the sun starts to warm up, you may start to notice the parts of your home that you’ve neglected through the winter.

Whether you’re working on your home to get it ready to go on the market or just hoping to give it some love, don’t let these spring cleaning and updating chores slip through the cracks.

Buyers are looking for a home that’s been taken care of despite any adverse weather conditions, so working on your home right at the beginning of spring will keep things ready to go for the spring home sales season. Freshening up your home’s interior and exterior will invigorate your home with spring energy so that you can enjoy the warm weather, knowing you’re ready to make the big sale!

1. Wash Windows and Freshen Window Treatments
   Windows often take the brunt of winter weather, keeping out cold winds and catching winter dust, dirt, and even debris and fumes from the roads. You’ll be amazed at how much more light can enter a space when the windows are clean.
2. Clear Your Gutters’ Downspouts
   Dirty gutters are an eyesore and a liability not only for you but for potential buyers. You can avoid flooding during spring rains by clearing gutters of all debris and it’s an easy cost effective way of making your home more attractive to the buyers.
3. Bring the Outdoors In
   One of the most exciting things about spring is the burst of flower blossoms that happen around the neighborhood. Filling your home with potted plants will make your house smell good and look beautiful.
4. Lawn Care
   The first thing that a potential home buyer sees is typically your front lawn. Start your lawn work by raking away any leaves and fallen branches. Aeration will help your lawn to be thick, even, and lush. Reseed any damaged or bare parts of your lawn using grass seed and fertilizer.
5. Repair Roof Damage
   Nothing is more intimidating to a potential buyer than a roof that needs some serious work. If you find an excessive amount of moss, mold, or other growth, you’ll want to treat your roof, and there are plenty of products available purpose built just spray on and leave, or pressure wash. Don’t hesitate to contact a roofer for a second opinion if need be.
6. De-Clutter for Spring
   Spring is the perfect time to pare down the clutter that’s been accumulating in your home. Before you get started, make a room-by-room plan so that you don’t feel overwhelmed. You don’t need to do everything in one day or even in one weekend.
7. Refresh Your Textiles
   Re-energize your home by updating pillowcases, throws, and duvet covers. Choose bright pops of color that coordinate well with existing color schemes. You don’t need to spend a fortune, but if you were already considering a change, now might be the ideal time.
8. Repair Windows and Screens
   Replace damaged and warped fly screens so that you can enjoy warm spring breezes without being bothered by bugs and mosquitoes. If you had a particularly rough winter, you’ll want to inspect windows for water damage and rot.

Again, this quarter you will notice there has been a significant increase in rates, across the board from all the main lenders since my last update.

The current predictions are there is still additional increases to come before the end of the year due to the reserve bank applying additional increase to the OCR.

The most popular fixed term option continues to be the 2 – year option, which should give borrowers some certainty until after the election.

Avoid the stress of open homes and public listings.

I can help Hamilton homeowners sell quietly to qualified buyers confidentially and on your terms. You decide if, and when to move forward.

In our current market, this is working well for other sellers. If this sounds like you, we should talk.

021 272 7737 Craig