As we move into autumn here in the Hutt Valley, the cooler weather hasn’t cooled the property market. Nationally, March brought a fresh surge of energy, with sales volumes rising 12.8% year-on-year.
While the national median house price edged down to $790,000, increased listings have created more opportunity and given buyers more choice. Compared to the same time last year, inventory levels rose 10.9%, and listings were up 5.0% nationally.
Wellington Region: Solid and Steady
In Wellington, the median sale price sits at $800,000, a 2.4% dip year-on-year. Activity remains steady, especially in well-priced suburbs that appeal to first home buyers and owner-occupiers. While investor activity has been limited, overall buyer sentiment continues to improve.
With median days to sell currently at 36—just a few days above the 10-year March average—this signals a healthy market pace. Listings are on the rise, and with interest rates easing, more buyers are taking time to re-enter the market with confidence.
Lower Hutt: Resilient and Well-Positioned
Closer to home in Lower Hutt, 144 homes were sold in March, with a median sale price of $740,000 and median days to sell at 38. Entry-level homes remain popular, especially in family-friendly suburbs with good infrastructure and schools.
Auction rooms have been buzzing, and even when properties don’t sell under the hammer, there has been solid post-auction interest, often resulting in swift sales shortly after. Buyers are showing up informed and ready to engage—helped in part by the recent drop in the Official Cash Rate, which is slowly easing mortgage costs and encouraging movement.
As we head into the cooler months, Lower Hutt is holding strong. With more homes coming on the market and steady conditions, it’s a great time for both buyers and sellers to make their move with confidence.
Buyer Tip of the Month: The Power of a LIM Report
Whether you're new to the process or a seasoned investor, one document that shouldn’t be overlooked is the Land Information Memorandum (LIM) report. This report reveals key details about a property—from zoning and consent history to drainage and natural hazards.
💡 Buyers: Secure a LIM early—it’s your best tool for avoiding hidden surprises and negotiating from a position of strength.
💡 Sellers: Providing a LIM upfront can remove barriers for cautious buyers and smooth the path to a successful sale.
Looking Ahead
There’s a quiet confidence building in the market. With interest rates easing and more properties coming to market, there are real opportunities for those ready to make a move. While we await next month’s OCR review, it’s important to remember that factors like consumer confidence, supply of stock, unemployment, and more recently, the effects of tariffs coming out of the USA will also shape the months ahead. Overall, the market feels well-positioned for a steady, positive season—making now a great time to plan your next step with optimism.
