Happy New Year! Welcome to 2012. Many great things to look forward to.......Summer is still in the air, beaches and BBQ's are still on the agenda, so enjoy those long summer nights while we can!!
So what's happening in the real estate market locally?
Statistics for December show a fall in the number of sales from last month - sitting at 46 . There is a median of 43 days to sell property and the median sale price has decreased slighty to $261,500.
Comments this month from the Real Estate Insitute spokesman state:
The lift in volumes for November is positive following the somewhat muted sales numbers for September and October", said REINZ Chief Executive Helen O'Sullivan. "While there may be some element of 'catch up' from these slightly quieter than expected months, there is a sense of buyers and sellers being ready to commit and clear the decks post Rugby World Cup before the end of the year. "
Around 25 percent of all new listings are snapped up by people new to the town, prompting continued growth in quality residential development. Lifestyle properties which have always been a key feature of Whangarei's real estate market are in increasing demand, as are classic established villas close to town and of course coastal properties.
With the increasing influence of overseas settlers, and those moving from Auckland, Whangarei is a town that has it all - award-winning cafes, top restaurants and retail to provide as much 'therapy' as shoppers could wish.
With approximately 73,000 people in and around Whangarei, there are plenty of quality schools catering to pre-school, primary and intermediate. Tikipunga, Kamo and Girls' and Boys' High, Pompallier College, Huanui College a private school being built in Glenbervie, as well as numerous District area schools provide education for all students.
The winter-less North encourages locals to spend time outdoors. Whangarei offers fishing, extensive walkways through untouched native forest and easy access to lovely beaches which all contributes to the excellent lifestyle here.