Business Central May 2024

80 | Stonewood Homes - Manawatu and Horowhenua T T Bernadette Cooney Lifestyle, affordability big drawcards “The affordability of sections here is attractive to a diverse range of new home builders,” says Catherine Geraghty. BUILDING The housing landscape in the Manawatu-Horowhenua region has received a significant boost with the recent opening of a new Stonewood Homes franchise in Foxton. As a trusted name in New Zealand’s residential home construction scene for three decades, Stonewood Homes has a network of 20 locally owned branches nationwide. Operating in the heart of Manawatu-Horowhenua are franchisees, Catherine Geraghty and Edgar Caballero, whose connection to the region lends an unparalleled understanding of local housing needs. Catherine and Edgar ran their own building company in the region before taking up the franchise and Catherine was raised in Levin, working and living in the Manawatu- Horowhenua most of her adult life. She emphasises the region’s allure, citing it lifestyle and affordability as drawcards for new residents. “The affordability of sections here is attractive to a diverse range of new home builders from property investors seeking better rental yields, to retirees downsizing and second home builders looking for greater value and lifestyle benefits.” Nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes stretching from the rugged Ruahine and Tararua Ranges to the Tasman Sea, Manawatu-Horowhenua offers an abundance of outdoor recreational activities including biking, hiking, rafting and fishing. Catherine and Edgar saw the Stonewood Homes franchise as a natural fit, leveraging its national brand recognition, extensive marketing exposure and bulk purchasing power to ensure stability in building costs. Stonewood Homes Manawatu-Horowhenua have over 350 house designs, tailored to various settings from metro to urban and countryside environments. ‘’From 98 sq. metres right through to over 380 sq. metres, so essentially there is a plan for everyone and of course we can customise any one of them to suit your individual needs,” says Catherine. Clients can even bring their visions to life using Stonewood Homes innovative HOMEi software which transforms sketches into interactive 3D renderings, providing a comprehensive understanding of design aesthetics and material costs. “The affordability of sections here is attractive to a diverse range of new home builders from property investors seeking better rental yields, to retirees downsizing and second home builders looking for greater value and lifestyle benefits.” From initial concept to final completion Stonewood Homes ensures a seamless and stress-free building experience. Their commitment to quality and reliability is reflected in their track record and the trust they’ve earned within the community. “We can take care of every aspect of the build right down to the driveway, landscaping and fencing, the clothesline, letterbox, curtains – everything’s done so you’re literally just unpacking boxes to sit on the deck,” says Catherine. Stonewood Manawatu-Horowhenua have their own build team led by experienced Licensed Building Practitioner Edgar Caballero. They have trusted and long-standing connections to local sub-contractors they value highly. “Our sub-contractors have been with us for several years now and we trust their work and they appreciate the pipeline of work the franchise provides them.” The franchise has its office and showroom at 1 Clyde Street, Foxton and welcomes visitors to see the latest in high spec features and fittings, carpets and tiles. Call in weekdays or make an appointment to view evenings and weekends. The franchise is planning a full standalone show home in the future, within Levin district. “We currently have house and land packages available within the new subdivision at Waitarere Beach, also in Levin, Tokomaru and Foxton Beach, so come and have a chat and check out our great value offerings,” says Catherine.

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