We hit a speed bump last month in Auckland. The phenomenon of quickly rising sale prices hit a blip in its rapidly elevating trajectory and the reasons for that blip – among which were a raft of regulatory changes for investors – means the soaring juggernaut that is the Auckland property market, might just have gone into coasting mode.

Some commentators are certain this is the beginning of a decline, which will in turn lead to a crash (read John Bolton’s view on p11), while others remain steadily optimistic. One thing is for certain: the slowing of Auckland’s pace means the regions are catching up. As is typical in a property cycle, the “trickle down” and the “halo” effects emanating from Auckland mean the surrounding regions are going off.

Beyond the Waikato, Bay of Plenty and Northland, there are indicators Wellington and Christchurch are beginning to lift (read our Housing Commentary on p12 and Regional Review of Christchurch on p48) and investors need to be poised to take advantage of the capital gains available.

Regardless of where you are looking to secure your next investment, it is crucial to understand the new regulations around lending and how they impact you. Lending currently requires more scrutiny from investors despite the attraction of banks’ historically low mortgage rates. How can you differentiate between the deals? Check out our annual survey of lending offerings and corresponding investor behaviour (p18) and find out which bank is best suited to your investment strategy.

Additionally, in this issue you will receive the best DIY advice for your next do-up project from the much-revered and feared veteran site foreman on The Block NZ, Peter Wolfkamp. The Block NZ viewers will enjoy hearing from Wolfkamp and previous winners (p30) on the highs and lows of embarking on a complete renovation project.

And how do you secure the best tenant once that do-up is complete? It would pay to heed the advice of Jess Denholm (profiled on p24) whose career in the social housing sector has resulted in a strong understanding of tenants’ needs. Denholm has developed her own portfolio of happy tenants and says working with your tenants is crucial.

If new tenants, a property purchase, a do-up or renovation are on the horizon for you this summer I wish you the best. Have a merry Christmas and a safe and happy New Year.

Joanna Jefferies
Editor