I have just returned from a fabulous 2-week break, a road trip up the West Coast and then across on the ferry to Wellington for a family wedding followed by a leisurely road trip home via the East Coast. What was so enjoyable was the fact that we had no time pressure. Normally we rush, be it by car or by plane there is an urgency to get from point A to point B. We so enjoyed the fact of having time to appreciate the magnificence of the country and to marvel at the reconstruction work along the Kaikoura Coast. It is now a case of planning the next “roadie”.

Sales number for September were 41 compared to 28 for previous year. A better gauge is numbers were slightly down on 5- and 10-year average. Median sale price for the area is still just on $1,000,000 which compares to New Zealand Median of $597,000. To put our market into perspective our total September sales of 41 were .7% of New Zealand total for September of 5896.

Still plenty of activity on the interest rate front. At present SBS is running a “re branding” special of 3.39% for 2 years. We continue to see quotes in the low 3.4% range so if we can help let us know. We have also recently seen arrival of some new “non-bank” lenders into the New Zealand market. These are tried and tested Australian companies and we are seeing a significant shake up as a result. At a time when Banks are taking a very cautious approach it is refreshing to have options.

Just a few more sleeps to see results of Rugby World Cup semi and a week further to see final outcome, go the All Blacks.

If Michelle or I can help in any way don’t hesitate to contact us.

Cheers

Charlie & Michelle