HomeStart changes pave way for more KiwiBuilders

This means more first home buyers across New Zealand will be able to apply for a KiwiBuild home using the HomeStart grant and Welcome Home Loan. “Aligning the price caps so they are the same as the KiwiBuild price caps across the country means first home buyers can...

Jasmax Design for the Future Shortlisted by Int. competition

Whittled down from 400 entries to a shortlist of 15, Jasmax are the only New Zealand designers to make the cut. Facing stiff competition from designs from around the world, there are nine countries in the shortlist, including the UK, Poland, Argentina and the USA. The...

Amendments to the Christchurch District Plan approved

The Minister for Greater Christchurch Regeneration, Megan Woods announced today that she has approved the proposal that will amend the Christchurch District Plan. Almost 95 percent (131) of the 138 written comments received were in favour of the proposal. “This...

Time is running out for landlords to meet requirements

Under changes to the RTA made in 2016, all rental properties must have ceiling and underfloor insulation installed, wherever possible, that meet the required standard. Tenancy Services has had a nationwide information campaign underway since 2016 to inform landlords...

​Communities Call for Action

When asked what they would say if they could talk to the Prime Minister about their community, people in six communities raised serious concerns about drugs, housing, lack of mental health services and economic problems that were holding back their neighbourhoods. The...

Proper app launches free background check feature

The free screening tool is connected to three national databases with over ten years of records. After gaining the tenant’s approval, owners only need to input the tenant’s full name, date of birth, email address, and mobile number to conduct a search. Once these...

​Community housing project at former Wesleyhaven Village

Wesley Community Action is delighted to announce that it has signed an agreement with Masterton prefabricated home provider EasyBuild to build 25 affordable rental homes at the former Wesleyhaven Village in Naenae. The homes will be made available to applicants on the...

Letting fees shown the door from today

“Our Government is making life better for renters. Now tenants won’t have to worry about letting fees during the busy summer rental season when so many are looking for new homes. “This will make a real difference to struggling families. There are significant costs...