Minimum wage, no help and on the ladder at 25: here's how they did it
I loved talking to Courtney Mason about how she and her husband ben bought their first home. It really offers a lot of hope for folks who might be looking at the property market and wondering what on earth is happening out there these days.
Courtney and Ben were tenacious and bold, and now they're living happily in their Hawke's Bay home.
Have a read and see how they did it, and while you're at it have a listen to our third episode of First Rung, the podcast for first home buyers for a little more inspiration.
Rentals
Hi
I went to view a rental that my family and i were excited to see on the weekend. Oh lordy! what a disappointment. When will they stop advertising properties that don't live up to the picture that they are portraying and show it in its real time state, warts and all??? I thought that there was a consumers protection act around false advertising??? I might be wrong. If this continues then the tenant should be able to ask for reduction in rent. Why? Because they in some cases are charged with cleaning the place up before they can even place their most treasured belongings in the home. The owners should be ashamed. I know no one will turn up if they showed warts and all. Well I think it's time for change. People are desperate, but come on, if you are getting good money from your tenants you have to lead by example. Those owners who make an effort deserve a medal. They aren't trying to hide anything. Their rent is also cheaper than the ones that don't make an effort. There are people out there who are only too happy to go and clean your property for you. Just make someones day and present your properties as if you are going to sell it. ( Hey, actually you are trying to do that in a way just to a tenant instead to rent).
What do you think renters? It's time for the korero.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.7% 1st December
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16.6% A week before Christmas
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32.5% Whenever you wish
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1.2% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.