108 | Helping QTown renters T T from page 106 PROPERTY Bayleys - Queenstown As the rental market shifts, one of the key roles for property managers like those at Bayleys is keeping landlords informed and prepared for what’s ahead. “We make sure that owners are aware of the current market and what is in the pipeline, so when it comes time for a tenancy renewal or end of lease, we can re-evaluate where the rental return would be, together,” Chloe says. “That’s a key role of the property manager – to talk through options and make the process easier for owners.” She is noticing Queenstown tenants are becoming more proactive, especially when it comes to maintenance. “This is a good thing in the long run for owners, as issues are addressed before they turn into bigger problems.” It protects their investments against costly repairs down the track, she says. With Queenstown’s colder climate, meeting healthy homes standards is another major focus. Bayleys has taken a thorough approach, ensuring every property complies. “We went through all of our properties for our clients to make sure all of them were healthy homes compliant, or were willing to get the certificate,” Chloe says. “And on their behalf, we were more than happy to work through what was required to ensure their property reached that standard.” Another notable change in Queenstown’s rental landscape is the growing preference for longer-term leases. “Most tenants, even owners, in fact, usually want to go towards a 12-month fixed-term lease to provide that extra security,” Chloe says. “We aren’t really seeing as many periodic leases at the moment.” Technology is also reshaping the property management experience. Bayleys has introduced systems where tenants can quickly lodge maintenance requests, utilising the latest tech to diagnose issues and prompt follow-up questions. Another exciting new tool is 360-degree cameras that are now used for property condition reports. “We actually go through each room with the 360-degree camera and get a full picture of the space to assess it,” Chloe says. “When the tenant does move out, we can see exactly what condition a room was in before they got there.” Mathew Dickinson 021 272 7128 mattheplasterer@gmail.com BCITO Certified CERTIFIED INTERIOR PLASTERING, SKIMMING & COVING PLASTERING LTD. 021 272 7128 We are your local experts servicing Arrowtown & Queenstown. Our Teams specialise in Interiors, Exteriors, Cedar Staining, Wallpapering and more! Brendon 021 671 303 | Blair 021 671 309 quotes@qtpaintingservices.co.nz www.qtpaintingservices.co.nz LJ Hooker - Dunedin Rental market heating up T T Rosa Watson For LJ Hooker in Dunedin, this year has been one of the busiest in recent years, with a surge in demand for rental accommodation. The agency currently manages over 500 properties in the city, with a dedicated team of eight, which includes five property managers, a leasing agent and an operations team. The agency offers comprehensive property-management services tailored to meet the needs of both landlords and tenants. And with over 26 years of experience, it has established a strong reputation and a legacy within the community, owner Renee Smith says. Its services allow property owners to remain hands-off while the agency handles all aspects of property management, including tenant selection, rent collection, property maintenance, and regular inspections, she says. It also offers a casual leasing service, conducting viewings, tenant screening, and maintaining documentation for new tenants. “It offers flexibility for landlords, who may not require full management but still need assistance with leasing their properties,” says Renee. What sets LJ Hooker Dunedin apart, she says, is its extensive experience and established presence in the market. “Our agency has built a solid foundation over 26 years, fostering strong relationships with clients and the community.” This year has seen a surge in demand in student rental market – well up on previous years, with numerous viewings resulting in significant interest, Renee says. “Some of our available student rentals have attracted over 20 groups to a viewing, leading to an impressive 90% sign-up rate within just three weeks of advertising.” This also extends beyond the central student areas into the North East Valley, North Dunedin, and the surrounding suburbs, she says. Renee says price and presentation are key points for tenants, as well as ensuring a warm, compliant home. “We have encountered some great applicants at our viewings, highlighting the potential for those looking to expand their rental investments in this sector.” The last two weeks of July saw a large increase in demand for residential properties, with many vacant properties being tenanted. Renee puts this down to competitive pricing and the completion of necessary maintenance and improvements to the properties. “We are already receiving inquiries for residential properties set to become available in the New Year, particularly in the high-end sector.” Renee says as rental prices have increased, tenant expectations have also risen, and she encourages landlords to maintain high standards for their properties. Education and training for the LJ Hooker team is a priority for the agency to stay ahead of market trends and legislative changes, and most team members hold Level 4 Property Management NZQA qualifications. The agency is actively involved in marketing initiatives, particularly on social media platforms, Renee says. “Continuous improvement and adaptation to market demands are central to its strategy. This area is equally important to both landlords and tenants as the world becomes more fast paced.” With interest rates continuing to fall, Renee says the agency is predicting a favourable environment for property investment. Renee Smith Malcolm James Furnishings We’re open 6 days Professional service, quality product, great value. Carpets and Curtains Kitchens and Bathrooms 39 Crawford St, Dunedin Monday to Friday: 7:30-5pm | Saturday: 11-1pm Ph: (03) 477 9466 Cell: 027 222 8901 Email: info@malcolmjamesfurnishings.co.nz Proud to support LJ Hooker Dunedin Exterior Property Maintenance 027 649 0677 | info@swiftwash.co.nz swiftwash.co.nz facebook.com/swiftwashdunedin • SOFT HOUSE WASHING • CONCRETE, BRICKS, PAVERS • GUTTER CLEANING • LANDLORD PACKAGES
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=