The minute I walked down the drive and across the flagstones I knew I was about to see another classic do up opportunity in the heart of Forrest Hill.

Why do so many families want to live here? Well it’s pretty simple. This is a family friendly affordable suburb, with local schools only a few minutes walk or cycle away. Westlake zone homes are always sought after, not just because of Westlake Boy’s and Girl’s High being so close but also Carmel and Rosmini Schools. And 221 Forrest Hill Road is you classic kiwi home. Privately positioned down a right of way, on a large 900m2 flat site this is a perfect family home for those who want their children in these great schools!

Definitely in need of an update, the bricks, tiles, and construction standards of the 1970’s mean you can’t go wrong. There are 3 bedrooms, a huge double garage, and rumpus room on a separate level just wating for a bunch of teenagers or extended family. The rumpus has a kitchenette for convenience. It’s all a little utilitarian, but with your flair and design sense you can transform this home into a modern gem.

Double garage, with views to the city give this home “good bones”, underlying value and oportunity just waiting to be realised. Call me!

Sizeable Family Home | Forrest Hill | By Negotiation

Privately situated on a 900m2 freehold level section, this 3 bedroom plus rumpus brick and cedar home will impress. Well suited to families with older children or those who require space for live in extended family. Westlake School zoned. This home is a bit of a do up and could be a real bargain for someone who wants a big private site with real potential. The rumpus is on its own level, with a second kitchen and offers some interesting possibilities.

Are you looking for a home to pull at the heart strings? Then look no further. Spacious, modern and dedsigned to capture the spectacular views. With large living spaces, a kitchen the cook in the family will love, and decks to soak up the sun and view, entertaining will be a breeze.

The master suite which is large enough to hold a party, a formal dining room (currently used as a nursery), an office, a cloakroom and guest toilet complete the down stairs. Upstairs two further bedrooms, a bathroom, study nook and second living area complete this gorgeous home. Elevated, stunning views across the Hauraki Gulf to Whangaparaoa and beyond are the icing on the cake. The grounds, which include a separate studio, are fully fenced and accessed via electric remote controlled gates. Excellent school zones with Rangitoto College a short walk away. Fantastic family home that your family deserves to live in. This is an opportunity not to be missed – be quick to view.

Sizeable Family Home | Forrest Hill | By Negotiation

Privately situated on a 900m2 freehold level section, this 3 bedroom plus rumpus brick and cedar home will impress. Well suited to families with older children or those who require space for live in extended family. Westlake School zoned. This home is a bit of a do up and could be a real bargain for someone who wants a big private site with real potential. The rumpus is on its own level, with a second kitchen and offers some interesting possibilities.

Weatherboard Wonderland | Milford | Auction

Located down a right-of-way you will find a gem of a home. This 1950’s 3 bedroom weatherboard bungalow has been renovated to a high standard and includes modern conveniences such as gas central heating and an HRV system. With an extra large lounge with space for an office, and a rumpus which is attached to the separate garage, this home is bigger than most bungalows. With decking galore and low maintenance landscaped grounds your weekends will be free to be enjoyed. With the home being well off the road, having excellent indoor-outdoor flow and a fenced section it’s a winner for families. In a quiet location with great neighbours, this tasteful family home is a must view. Motivated owners are committed to selling.

Yes – Single Level | Milford | Auction

Very rare opportunity to obtain a single level home withing walking distance to Milford village. After 20 happy years the owners are moving to retirement and sadly but definitely are  leaving their 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom home just a few minutes stroll to the shops. We have many requests for this type of home, so don’t delay, huury and give me a call to view!

Here’s a tale of two people….Some years ago I met a gentleman who had immigrated to New Zealand in the early 60’s and proceeded to buy 40 acres of land at Limeburners Bay in Hobsonville. His family and friends thought he was mad, it was remote and hard to get to, but he kept it and as the years went by Auckland crept out to Hobsonville and beyond. His family now reap the rewards, each year they sell a section or two and live on the proceeds. I helped him sell some of his property a more relaxed person I have never met.

Another elderly couple I know also immigrated to New Zealand in the late 50’s. They went to live in South Waikato, and after a while had saved enough to think about buying a house. At the time they went off to a sleepy place called Mt Maunganui. Looked seriously at buying some land and building a home. They procrastinated and in the end decided that no one would want to live amongst the sand dunes. Now, of course, it’s some of the most valuable real estate in the country.

Subdividable | Make Money Here!

It is easy to look back and see missed opportunity. And easy to see that now is the right time to invest in subdividable property on the North Shore. for the last two years there has been little building and demand for new homes is rising. This is your opportunity to secure a subdividable property ready for the next property cycle. Whatever YOU do, don’t have regrets… make sure you view this property, do your sums, forecast your likely profit, and above all have fun!

In Spencer Road, right beside Pinehill Prmary School, we have a half acre of land. There are two homes on two titles. Both were built in the 1960’s and while one is wel appointed the other is a do up.  Subdivision has been approved by the North Shore City Council, and surveying is complete. Soon there will be a new owner, someone with foresight, someone who can see that subdivisible land in close proximity to Albany Megacentre, already the largest shopping centre in New Zealand, Massey University, Albany Bus Station and the Northern Motorway, albany Stadium and Rangitoto college is an opportunity not ot be missed.

You can hold the land and rent out the tow homes long term and simply land bank. You could complete the subdivision and ready 4 sites for building to meet demand in the new and growing property cycle. Move in and enjoy a fine home and income knowing that future demand will deliver capital gain to you and your family.
Whatever you do , do not look back and have regrets, What would life have been like if only we had bought that subdivisible property back in 2009?

Click here for more information.

Reminder Notice

Last Open Homes: Saturday and Sunday 24/25 October at 1.00pm
Note Well: Both homes will be open.

Auction: At 42/44 Spencer Road, at 6.00pm on 28 October.

Two Great Offers:
Grant Cullum of Jennian Homes will locate home plans on the sections to give you an idea of what you can do with the land- with no obligation. Jennian offer fixed price contracts with NO SURPRISES. You can contact Grant on 021 774 941.

Jon Purdey of Edge Mortgages is ready to assist you with finance for these properties. Lower interest rates and easy income form the existing homes mean funding will be easier. Jon will be able to obtain a pre approved finance package on special builder’s terms to enable you to bid with confidence at the auction. You can contact Jon on 021 979 335.

Visit www.harcourts.co.nz/spencer for auction contracts and last minute information.

Good Luck with your bidding!

Every now and then you come across a gem in the real estate business. And often they are do ups. some are collectors items, the ones with history charm and character . You know, an original 1960’s bungalow, untouched since the day it was built, or a villa in the country built in 1890, still with scrim on the walls, uninsulated, with the sunhats in the cupboard waiting for a gardener long gone. The best are on full sites, with an old garden and mature fruit trees dripping with grapefruit and lemons. These are the ones the avid do it your selfer is looking to be excited by. You know the true do up buyer, they can transform a old house into a beautiful home, they often have renovated car as well, a 1966 EH Holden, or perhaps something even older. Some of course are wealthy, made rich by astute buying, careful renovation and clever marketing and presentation (to hide the blemishes).

So here’s our latest offering:

43 Sunnynook Road / Grandma’s Home / Auction

Original Interior is a dream come true!

This is a collectors item; OK, so whats a collectors item then?

Full site: 918m2 9 (check), Original garden and fruit trees as well as a patch of bush (check), Interior decoration and layout  is original (check), well cared for (check), original plaster ceilings and covings (check), timber floors (check), pelmets (check) and venetian blinds (check).

So, Grandma has been looking after this for 43 years and is now retiring; someone (why not you?) will buy this and transform it; You could renovate or restore it and move in, or spruce it up and make some money on our resurgent market.

Call Tony right away on 0800 61 8888, and we’ll see if you can snap a bargain.

Some more great auctions this weekend too:

89 Forrest Hill Road, Forrest Hill – Saturday at 12 midday

93 Hobson Road, Albany – Saturday, 2.00pm

3/38 Corunna Road, Milford – Saturday, 4.00pm

12a Valley Road, Browns Bay – Sunday, 2.00pm

69 Kowhai Road, Mairangi Bay – Sunday, 2.00pm

355 Glenvar Road, Torbay – Sunday, 12.00pm

22 Waitoki Road, Waitoki – Sunday, 12.00pm

134H Rangatira Road, Beach Haven – Sunday, 4.00pm

16A Aeroview Road, Beach Haven – Sunday, 3.00pm

Single level home | Takapuna | Auction

13B Karaka Street

Our owners are relocating and this low maintenance, brick and tile, single level home, in a great central location will be absolutely and utterly sold!! Boasting 3 – 4 bedrooms, 1 – 2 bathrooms, spacious lounge, designer granite kitchen, HRV system, modern conservatory, fully fenced garden and a covered area for two cars. An opportunity not to be missed!!

Position perfect | Milford | Auction

1/109 Shakespeare Road

Set back off the main road this immaculate 2 bedroom unit offers modern open plan living, all day sun and good indoor/outdoor flow. A garage, plus plenty of off-street parking and a level walk to all the local amenities including great schools, Milford village, the hospital, Smales business precinct and bus terminal, plus easy access to the motorway too. This is position buying at its best!! Genuine sellers – WILL BE SOLD!!

AUCTION ON SITE SUNDAY 27th SEPTEMBER @ 2PM.

Size will suprise | The Palms | $639,000

32 Calypso Way

A home that deceives – from the road – just a glimpse but step inside and be surprised. Much, much more than meets the eye – 4 double bedrooms plus generous sized study – ideal nursery, home office etc. The heart of this home is the central kitchen/family and dining rooms that flow through bi-fold doors to a large covered north facing patio/deck area – great for entertaining all year round. In addition to this there is a formal lounge with cosy gas fire giving good separation. There is a master bedroom located on the main level with en suite and walk in robe. Downstairs another generous bedroom with its own en suite and walk in robe with outdoor flow to tranquil rear garden setting – ideal extended family – teenagers etc.

Position Perfect II | Milford | Auction

2/109 Shakespeare Road

This beautifully presented 2 bedroom unit benefits from an incredibly handy position enhanced by modern contemporary renovations throughout. Set well off the road with off street parking for 2 cars, the unit offers wonderful indoor/outdoor entertaining and all day sun. The lucky purchaser can walk to local amenities such as the hospital, Smales business precinct, bus terminal and Milford Village. In zone for great schools such as Milford Primary, Carmel, Westlake and Rosmini. Sellers South Island bound – WILL BE SOLD!! AUCTION ON SITE SUNDAY 27th SEPTEMBER @ 1.30PM.

Last weekend Harcourts Cooper and Co ran 11 auctions, 9 of which are now sold. This is an outstanding result. We have 4 auctions this weekend – better get your skates on! Click on the links for a quick look and if you like what you see, call me right away on 0800 61 8888.

21 Beach Road, Castor Bay – Sunday at 2.00pm
23a Blenheim Street, Glenfield – Sunday at 2.00pm
2/690 Beach Road, Browns Bay – Sunday at 3.00pm
5 Muritai Road, Milford – Sunday at 3.00pm

During the last week, many new properties came to the market. These are our picks:

Friend Magnet | Birkenhead Point | Auction

Renovated villa will charm your friends and family

You’ll need lots of nibbles and drinks on hand if you become the lucky new owner of this gorgeous villa. Originally built in the early 1900’s, it has been lovingly renovated to bring it up to today’s high standard whilst still retaining the character of its era. You’ll awake to superb views over the inner harbour and enjoy a coffee on the sun-soaked verandah. In the afternoon the home comes into its own with the heart of the house opening out to the entertaining area, heated salt water pool and even room for the backyard cricket. The owners have purchased, giving you a very real opportunity to buy in one of Birkenhead Point’s prime spots.

Convenience & character | Milford | Auction

Close to schools, shops and everything you need!

This single level, newly renovated, character bungalow is hard to beat. Busy professionals and families who love to entertain will be delighted with the indoor-outdoor flow, low maintenance and sunny north facing aspect. With 3 bedrooms, open plan living and a quality renovation completed there is nothing for you to do but sit back and enjoy the lifestyle that this property offers. With Milford shops and beach a flat stroll away, the car can be left in the garage in the weekends. In zone for Milford Primary, Takapuna Intermediate and Westlake High School. Close to motorway links and public transport the commuter is well catered for. This location is hard to beat and is always popular- be in quick, this may not last until auction day.

View Collector | Castor Bay | By negotiation

Perfect Entertainer

Stunning views of the city, Rangitoto, Lake Pupuke..commanding position and tropical garden. All this can be yours!! This 3 level 340m2 executive residence has space for the whole family/extended family and homestay. Beautiful indoor/outdoor flow for summer parties and entertaining for children – quailty fixtures and fittings throughout. Massive parking, all the best schools close by and just stroll to the beach. Vendor heading overseas, so don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity!!

Spacious & stylish | Mairangi Bay | Auction

Child-friendly and great for entertaining

This home ticks all the boxes for families as it is elevated and sunny with flexible living spaces and a separate study downstairs. With lovely sundrenched entertainment decking, this home has the indoor outdoor flow you have been searching for. Safely fenced , the backyard is ideal for children and pets and big enough to establish a great vegetable garden. Our owners have treasured the internal access garage and great storage needed for growing families. Located in a quiet cul de sac and zoned for great schools, this home will not be available for very long! Our reluctant owners need to move on so this home is seriously for sale!

Better than new | Milford | Price by neg.

Better than New

When a perfectly good property in a perfect location is purchased and then completely rebuilt by a perfectionist who has the highest and strictest of demands, then you know that something quite special has been created. No expense has been spared in this stunning transformation. Seeing is believing. Extensive outdoor lighting New Kitchen manufactured and installed by Mastercraft Kitchens of Hamilton, bench top is by Stonex. appliances include Smeg Gas Hob and Smeg Wall oven S709X-7 New tiled Bathrooms which include safety glass showers and heated towel rails Three double bedrooms, lounge, media room (family room), large dining area Media room is wired for surround sound and includes Linn speakers (top Audio Brand) Separate office with built in desk and storage Top of the range Rinnai Arriva Power Flued Gas Fireplace with Midnight Black Fascia with hand held remote setting device which includes a timer if required. This home is outsanding.

Garden or Goldmine | Forrest Hill | Auction

Garden or Goldmine

A rare, once-only opportunity has become available to secure this wonderful estate in the heart of Westlake School Zone. Built by the current owner in 1955, this is the first time this property has come to the market. Situated on a prime 1816m2 freehold site (zoned Res4A), the lucky purchaser has the option to do-up and enjoy this secluded property or explore the development options available. This north facing property enjoys wide panoramic views across to Rangitoto, the Hauraki Gulf and over to Lake Pupuke. With close access to Westlake High, Smales Business Farm and the motorway, the key ingredients here are location and potential – combined with the genuine motivation to sell! Your immediate inspection is highly recommended…Will be sold!

Under the Tuscan Sun | Auction| Mairangi Bay

Lovely Italianate Home

This Italian inspired property is positioned on a generous landscaped site on the sunsoaked northern slopes of Mairangi Bay. Rarely do we get to see quality, thoughtful design and construction that is evident in this home. Set amongst an enclave of similar quality properties and with added security of being well off the road the property has been designed with family living in mind. Excellent multiple living spaces flow directly to a sunny northerly outdoor entertaining area. The bus route to Campbells Bay School at your driveway, plus Mairangi Bay School just a short walk away. Rangitoto College zoning, as well as Westlake High. This property is seriously impressive and should command attention from any astute home buyer.

Private Sanctuary | Campbells Bay | $635,000

Peace and Privacy in a Secure Location

For those who value peace, privacy and security, look no further! Within a safe environment of top quality homes the property offers exceptional value with 3 bedrooms, separate bathroom and shower, a double garage, block & cedar construction, a freehold full-site and a northerly aspect. Within easy striking distance to the beach, bushwalks, golf course, tennis club and zoned for Westlake High, Rangitoto College and Campbells Bay Primary – this property is a must see!

X Factor | Milford | Auction

Changed Circumstances, Sale Pending

Change in owners circumstances mean this property will be sold! A substantial one level brick and tile home with multiple living areas. The home is wrapped around a superb private outdoor retreat featuring a stunning gas fire, swimming pool and sprawling decks. The master suite features a modern ensuite and flows to a deck over-looking the pool. A separate pool house provides numerous options and features its own bathroom, private deck and separate entrance – the perfect teenagers retreat, work from home or games room. Realistic sellers – Will be sold!

Something Special | Milford | Auction

Ideal for Investors and First Home Buyers

Looking for location?
Looking for low maintenance?
Looking for an easy-care garden?
Looking for something immaculate?

Then look no further. This 2 bedroom home is worth a look. Being the rear one, it would be the ideal home for retirees, singles, professional couples or investors. The market is active. You probably missed out on the rest, so don’t let this one pass you by. Be first to view.

Bargain Hunters Dream | MIlford | $335,000

Cheap Do Up

Calling developers or first home buyers here’s your chance to secure a unit in Milford. The family grew but the rooms didn’t!

It’s rough – in original 1960’s condition, vacant now, all offers considered.