96 | Hayden Homes T T Sue Russell Region sees surge in infill housing Hayden Homes has built many beautiful homes throughout the region. BUILDING Hayden Dam, director of Hayden Homes says that indications within the market point to a better period ahead. Asked how he has managed the ups and downs that have affected housing in and around Palmerston North, his reply was to be flexible. “We just reduced our hours at times so I didn’t have to let anyone go and we came through OK,” says Hayden. He established Hayden Homes in 2014 just working for himself. Slowly as work picked up he was in a position to build the team. Today, its Hayden and two others, which means he is actively involved ‘swinging a hammer’ and it is just as he would wish. Hayden has been building 15 years and is pleased with where the business is situated at this time in its journey. “The bulk of my work has been residential and with a small team, we can usually manage two projects on the go. Looking ahead through 2024 we have probably got three more projects lined up for this year.” With his experience Hayden is able to sit down with clients from the get-go and advice them on design ideas. Equally he’s happy to work from plans already prepared. Both his team are apprentices – one an adult and each is progressing well through their training. Back in his day, the training pathway was structured differently, with blocks of time at trade school. Thinking back to the COVID era, Hayden says he adjusted nimbly to the situation. In the very busy post-COVID years he had five builders contracted to him which meant that when things slowed down somewhat he could adjust easily to his current number. When Business Central spoke with Hayden the team were finishing off a renovation and alteration and a new build was also underway. Given his year leading a building company Hayden shared some insights for those considering starting up their own business. “Find a good accountant and don’t sweat the small stuff would be my first thoughts. Also enjoy the quieter times as they come along because the building sector is always cyclical in nature.” Palmerston North, he says, is going ahead, as major industry is attracted by proximity to the transport and distribution centres. Council is also doing its bit, having regular reviews as to what areas of land to zone into new residential space, which is encouraging. “We also have a lot of infill housing and I would think right now about 70% of all new homes are being built on an existing section which a house already occupies. That’s the benefit of areas with the larger sections that allow this form of housing to evolve.” Hayden says he understands that building a new home is a journey and something that, naturally matters a great deal to his clients. This is why, as a Certified Builder and Registered Master Builder, he is able to offer clients a seamless positive build experience. “I’m extremely flexible in nature and happy to talk with clients in the very early conversations about what might suit their aspirations and lifestyle. “I find it really satisfying when we’ve sat down, engaged in open conversation to bring visions and general concepts into something much more real and possible.” WE HAVE AN EXTENSIVE RANGE OF BUILDING SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS HT” MANAWATU Call in and see your local owner/operator 51 Joseph Street, Palmerston North - 06 356 9490 Frame & Truss Plant 06 354 6582 Email sales@manawatuitm.co.nz
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