Covid-19 has likely changed Kiwi spending plans, with some property-owners now looking to upgrade and improve their home in time for summer.
Money that would have previously been earmarked for an overseas holiday is being diverted to fund big renovations.
Auckland landscaper Joey Rogers says that enquiries normally drop by more 30 per cent at this time of year but post lockdown, he’s been busier than ever, with homeowners seeking new decks and improved gardens.
“We are doing a lot of retaining walls, concreting and deck-building at the moment,” he says.
Start your property search
People want to their upgrade decks and make them larger, Rogers says, “because for six weeks of lockdown people have been sitting in their little patios. Now they want to put chairs out and walk around it.”
Swimming pools are also in demand. With overseas holidays unlikely to return anytime soon, buyers are eyeing homes that can them a holiday feel.
Bayleys Christchurch agent Adam Heazlewood says interest in swimming pools has noticeably increased, with one of his listings, 107 Office Road, in Merivale, becoming a magnet for buyers due to its outdoor pool.
“We’ve noticed the demand for it has been quite high. We don’t know if lack of travel is the reason, but people did mention that they love a pool, so maybe the lockdown has triggered it and they don’t even know,” he says.
Dive on in: Buyer interest in 107 Office Road, in Merivale, Christchurch has been high due to its pool.
Glenn Jillings, who owns pool installation firm Watchman Developments, says swimming pools have been steadily rising in popularity in Auckland over the last three years and will be particularly desirable now.
“The opportunity to travel isn’t there which will increase the demand and make pools more appealing in the next 12 months,” he says.
“Some homeowners will rather invest in something that adds value to their home and for people with teenage kids, pools are great,” Jillings says.
