For many New Zealanders living overseas, the Covid-19 pandemic has been the prompt they have been waiting for to come home. And anecdotally, many of these returning Kiwis are looking to buy property upon their come-back.
So how can you make your vendors’ property stand out to someone who’s coming home after a long time abroad?
Make your advertising as clear and comprehensive as possible
It could be that prospective buyers aren’t in the neighbourhood, the city, or even in the country yet; they might be checking out your property from overseas.
Provide as much information as you can in the listing, to help them make a decision even if they cannot see the property yet themselves.
This could be a video walk-through, a VR tour, extra photos on request, or just making yourself as open and accessible as possible so that they feel comfortable asking family and friends to come through to act as their eyes.
Highlight heating and insulation
After spending years abroad, many people returning from overseas are surprised at the lack of things like central heating in New Zealand homes. If the property you are selling offers a great heating system, make a point of showing that off.
Make note of what’s in the area
Returning Kiwis may not necessarily have established networks yet, so they may be attracted to property listings that clearly show them how they fit in.
Is there a great local café where they will be able to imagine meeting friends? Is there a shopping area at walking distance? What’s great about the local school? Tell a story that makes people imagine a new way of life.
Make the most of outdoor living
Many returning New Zealanders are either coming back from the UK, where they’ve probably missed outdoor living, or Australia, where they’re used to it. Talk up the property’s indoor-outdoor flow so that people can start daydreaming about hanging out in their new gardens. Even a relatively small backyard can seem like a large amount of space to someone who’s used to a small flat – particularly if they’ve been cooped up for a lockdown in it.
Point out public transport
Many people that have been living overseas for a while have grown used to public transport in a way that New Zealanders are not. Point out what’s available locally, and the commute times to the main centres where they may work. If there’s not great public transport, you may want to highlight a short trip in the car, or options to work in the area.
Connectivity
Many people coming back to New Zealand are bringing their work with them and want to ensure they can remain connected to the outside world. Showcase the high-speed broadband options available.
Like to maximise your vendors’ property opportunities?
At Lifestyle Finance, we specialise in helping New Zealand real estate agents and their vendors maximise their opportunities in the market, with our ‘Pay Later’ finance options for real estate marketing and renovations. Give our team a call on 0800 100 265 to get the conversation started.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.