First National Dargaville principal, Jill Wilson

The Northland property market is stable and turnover far exceeds the figure stated in a recent news report, according to First National Dargaville principal, Jill Wilson.

“A Europe-based economic expert quoted in local media predicting a price drop following a volume drop did not have the local picture,” she said.

“A local real estate agent was quoted last week as saying only six properties had sold in the Kaipara region since June last year.

“In fact, Real Estate Institute of New Zealand figures show a total of 199 residential, sections and small lifestyle blocks sold and settled!”

Despite a dramatic drop in volume since 2005, property in Dargaville was still selling well and prices had been relatively static for a long time, and only six per cent lower than 2007.

“Forty-two were residential properties sold in Dargaville and the immediate surrounds from June 2009 to January 2010,” Ms Wilson said.

First National Dargaville had sold 18 of those.

“Prices are excellent at the moment for investors and first home buyers. We have wonderful starter houses from $140,000 within the township.

“Interest rates as of today at the ANZ are floating 5.69%, one year 6.20% and three years 7.99% These are much more affordable than they have been for years.

“We have motivated vendors and many employment opportunities within the Kaipara region, so we believe the worst is over.”

Ms Wilson said customers needed to be sure their agent was knowledgeable about the market they were wanting to invest in and could verify information provided.

“It is most important to choose an agency who has faith and commitment to the area in which they are working. We not only sell houses and farms — we sell locations and community.”