| 113 T T Rosa Watson A ‘jet boat’ in property market Melissa Benge: In recent years, the company has invested heavily in technology to integrate property management and sales systems. PROPERTY Irelands The name Irelands has become synonymous in Christchurch for expert property management – so much so that its services are in demand further afield in mid-Canterbury, and it has recently set up a branch there. The company was founded in 1995 by Bernice Ireland, who was branching out on her own after building a career with national real estate firms. It is now owned by her daughter, Melissa Benge, who has always been inspired by her mother. Since joining forces with Melissa’s real estate firm, First Avenue Property, in 2022, the company has two main arms – property management and real estate. While its real estate continues to grow, property management remains its stronghold. “The brand Irelands is probably better known around Christchurch for property management,” says Melissa. In recent years, the company has invested heavily in technology to integrate property management and sales systems, seamlessly taking customers through signing up, to purchase, to tenancy agreements and vacating. It helps the company to be more efficient and gives it agility, Melissa says. “When a tenant or buyer throws up something unusual, we can tap right into that.” Staff members regularly undertake training to keep up with changes in legislation and industry best practice. “There’s a lot to keep up with, but we invest quite heavily in that.” Melissa describes the privately owned, independent company as a “jet boat versus a big ship”. “You can adjust; you can move with ease.” Being fiercely independent is important to Melissa. “I just like the freedom it gives us and to be really mobile.” The company operates differently from other real estate firms, setting itself apart with its passionate, personalised customer service, backed up with a service guarantee and 24hour customer service, seven days a week. Melissa herself is reachable at all times. The team members are property investors themselves, and have a good insight into customers’ needs and concerns. “We only employ experienced and passionate Christchurch property managers and real estate agents, so that we can provide you with the service you expect,” Melissa says. And they work hard to achieve the highest return possible. Irelands remains a strong competitor on the Christchurch property-management scene, with more than 850 properties currently on its books. “It’s something that’s continued to grow over time,” Melissa says. Its name is become so familiar in the region that this year the company has taken the step of branching out into Ashburton. “The reason for the move to Ashburton was about seeing an opportunity there from feedback from clients, who felt there was a limited service,” Melissa explains. It also has ties to the area with the Ireland family having connections to Mayfield. “It’s relatively small at the moment, but it’s something we are looking to grow.” Plans are underway for a dedicated team to be based out of the area. “We think we’ve got a good offering for landlords in the area.” Irelands has a team of 16 staff, and although Bernice has now moved on to another enterprise – Braziers Property Management and Real Estate – she is still on hand to be a sounding board while helping the Braziers operation. The “brilliant” team at Irelands contributes to the success of the company, and are there to support everyone involved through the property process, she says. “The culture is a lot to do with them, really. We really encourage tenants, landlords, everyone we deal, with opportunities to talk through any issues, but also to meet in person. Irelands is hot on answering the phone as opposed to customers being referred to a recorded message. “We talk through any issues equally with tenants and buyers as consumers – we really value those relationships. We know that those relationships are key for our reputation. And they deserve it.” i ncorpor a t i ng pappr i l l s mortlock mccormack law Level 2 299 Durham Street North Christchurch Central +64 3 377 2900 law@mmlaw.co.nz mmlaw.co.nz We specialise in Commercial Law, Property & Insurance, Development & Construction, Trust Law, Dispute Resolution, Relationship Property and Family Law. Talk to us about your legal needs – big or small. 0800 BEST-CO (0800 237826) tyler@bestconnection.co.nz bestconnection.co.nz Let’s get connected! Residential & Commercial Electricians Located in Christchurch M.J. Robertson Plumbers provides full plumbing services throughout Christchurch and surrounding areas. We have more than 50 years industry experience, specialise in trouble-shooting and provide FREE quotes and estimates. We work with trusted suppliers and pass on cost savings to you! www.mjr.co.nz office@mjr.co.nz 03 366 6195 Emergency 24-hour plumbing service available
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