Last month we popped across the ditch for a family holiday in Australia. The girls were convinced they’d bump into the Norris Nuts somewhere along the way (all the parents out there will understand!). Our main stop was Port Douglas, a beautiful tropical town that serves as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Amanda had booked what was advertised as a five-star resort. Naturally, expectations were high. The reality was… a little different.
After a long day of travel, we arrived at 3.40pm, for a 3pm check in expecting to head straight to the pool, only to be told our room wasn’t ready. That evening, at 12.30am, an emergency evacuation alarm blasted through the resort. Guests gathered outside with no staff in sight and no explanation before eventually wandering back to their rooms thirty minutes later. Following an incredible day on the reef, we ordered room service and left the tray outside afterwards. Three days later it was still there until we called to have it collected. The spa never worked despite promises it would be fixed, and on our final night a wedding reception carried on until 12am without guests receiving any warning.
None of these things were disasters on their own. The problem was that the experience simply didn’t match the expectation.
Real Estate Isn’t Much Different
Every buyer forms an opinion before they ever step through the front door. The photography, video, advertising and description all create an expectation of what a buyer is about to see.
If the home exceeds those expectations, buyers walk away pleasantly surprised. If it falls short, even slightly, they often leave feeling disappointed, even if it’s a wonderful property.
Great marketing isn’t about making exaggerated promises; it’s about attracting the right buyers while setting genuine expectations. When buyers feel the home is even better in person than they anticipated, you’ve created one of the most powerful ingredients for a successful sale.
A New Chapter
If you’ve ever sat across the table from me, you’ll probably have heard me say that brands don’t sell houses, people do. A great result comes from the strategy, advice, negotiation and care your agent brings throughout the campaign.
That belief hasn’t changed.
Over the past few months Amanda and I have made one of the biggest business decisions of our careers. After many wonderful years with Ray White, we’ve joined Lowe & Co. We’re incredibly grateful for everything Ray White provided us, the opportunities, the people and the support have all played a significant part in our journey.
Joining Lowe & Co simply feels like the right next step. It’s a proudly Wellington-owned business whose values align closely with our own, and we’re genuinely excited about what the future holds.
The colours may have changed, but our commitment to our clients hasn’t. The same people, the same service and the same dedication, just in black.
The Wellington Market
There’s been a noticeable shift in the Wellington market over the past couple of months.
Buyers and sellers are finding common ground again, transactions are happening more consistently, and for the first time in quite a while the market feels…at least a little more normal.
With spring just around the corner, we’re expecting activity to continue building. While the local elections in November may create a little background noise, the fundamentals remain encouraging. Well-presented homes that are priced sensibly are attracting solid interest, and buyers are showing confidence when they find the right property.
After several years of uncertainty, “steady as she goes” is actually a pretty good place to be.
Wellington Market Quick Stats
What’s On in Welly?
Matilda the musical 23th September – 11th October
It’s won over 100 international awards and delighted more than 11 million audience members worldwide. Now Matilda The Musical is flying into the capital for a limited season in 2026. The smash-hit show is inspired by Roald Dahl’s beloved book and features original songs by Tim Minchin.
Click for details and to book tickets
World of wearable arts 17th September – 4th October
The World of Wearable Art (WOW) Show is an internationally acclaimed annual event. Held every spring, WOW is New Zealand’s largest arena spectacle. This not-to-be-missed event features an electrifying combination of live music, cirque, dance and dazzling wearable art.
Click for details and to book tickets
Wellington Lions vs Northland Taniwha 19th September
The Wellington Lions are ready to roar as the National Provincial Championship (NPC) celebrates 50 years.
If you, or anyone you know, could benefit from a considered market assessment by Wellington’s only licensed agent and registered property valuer, please do not hesitate to call. We are always happy to help.
