When Sunday open homes are slow, I’m guilty of a little doom-scrolling, even though I tell myself not to.
Recently, an article about Marcus Aurelius caught my attention. It wasn’t about his role as Emperor of the Roman Empire, but rather his commitment to the ancient Greek philosophy of Stoicism. The more I read, the more I realised there were some surprisingly relevant lessons for the world of real estate.
For those without a philosophy degree, Stoicism is simply about focusing on what you can control, accepting what you can’t, and viewing life’s events not as good or bad, but as opportunities to respond well.
The Market
A stoic has no opinion on the market. Like the weather, it simply is what it is.
If the market is strong, they may decide it’s a good time to realise a profit and sell. If it’s softer, they may see an opportunity to buy. Recognising that you have no individual control over the market gives you the freedom to respond to it, rather than worry about it.
Over the past few years we’ve heard countless times how “bad” the market is. Yes, prices have come back from their peak, but for the vast majority of homeowners, life has simply carried on. A perceived loss is very different from a realised loss.
Interest Rates
A stoic doesn’t get caught up in the interest rate game.
The principles they live by, discipline, fairness and perspective, allow them to avoid obsessing over the latest fixed rate or trying to perfectly time the market. Instead, they focus on what they can control: paying down debt as effectively as possible.
Next time you’re talking to your mortgage broker, rather than asking, “What’s the best rate?”, perhaps ask, “What’s the best strategy to pay off my mortgage sooner?”
Comparison, The Thief of Contentment
It’s incredibly common, particularly in today’s market, for homeowners to compare their property with one that sold six or twelve months ago. On the surface, that seems like the responsible thing to do.
But when markets move, comparisons can quickly become unhelpful.
A stoic would accept that, once they’ve done everything within their control, the market has delivered today’s value. There’s little benefit in dwelling on what might have been. Accept it, make the best decision you can, and move forward. After all, time is precious.
Time
Some people genuinely love real estate and could happily spend every weekend walking through open homes. For most people, however, buying a home is simply a means to an end.
A stoic values time above almost everything else. They understand that a 100% perfect home doesn’t exist. If a property ticks 80% of the boxes, that’s often enough. They’d rather spend years enjoying a home than years searching for one.
Selling like Marcus Aurelius
If Marcus Aurelius were selling his home today, he’d focus on the things he could control.
He’d maximise the presentation, complete any maintenance that needed doing, and choose an agent who believed in process rather than simply promising the highest price. Everything within his control would be done to the highest standard. The outcome? He’d leave that to the market.
The Wellington Market
The Super Rugby final was exactly what the city needed. Wellington was buzzing, restaurants were full. It was a timely reminder of what this city can be.
The property market has also shown encouraging signs over the past month, with more homes attracting multiple offers and buyer confidence continuing to build.
The next topic of conversation will undoubtedly be the election. Many will speculate about what it could mean for the property market.
The stoic response?
“I can’t control that, so I won’t let it control my decisions.”
Wellington Market Quick Stats
What’s On in Welly?
All Blacks vs Italy – 11th July
Make it your mission to support the All Blacks in 2026 when they face Italy at Hnry Stadium. This is an exciting match as it’s Italy’s first test in Wellington. It’s also only the fourth time they’ve met in New Zealand since the 1987 Rugby World Cup. With a 5:10pm kick-off, the match is designed to be family-friendly. Bring the whole whanau for an action-packed afternoon at the stadium.
The All Blacks’ fixture against Italy is part of the inaugural Nations Championship. This is a new international rugby tournament featuring 12 of the world’s top nations across July and November. Each match has competition points on the line leading to the final, so the Wellington game is important. Wellington will be awash with rugby fever, so head out, support the All Blacks and say ‘ciao’ to all the Italian fans in the city.
Matariki Ahi Kā – 9-12 July – Odins Plaza, Wellington Waterfront
Celebrate the Māori New Year in a uniquely Wellington way.
Gather with friends and whānau to celebrate the Māori New Year on the waterfront. Matariki Ahi Kā, presented by Wellington City Council, honours culture, history, and family. Experience a free, immersive journey along the waterfront. It features fire, stunning projections, live performances, and a ceremony for loved ones who have passed away. There are also kai courts where you can stop off for a bite and listen to live music. Starting at 6pm and running for three hours. You can soak up the atmosphere from 9 to 12 July.
The rising of Puanga and the Matariki star cluster (Pleiades) mark the Māori New Year. It is a special time to get together and restore faith and hope for the future. Māori refer to celebrating whanaungatanga or kinship. Be with others, share stories and kai, and plan to work towards a sustainable future.
Royal New Zealand Ballet 2026 Season – 16-18 July
The ballet delivers old favourites and fresh works. Prepare for a year of great drama, emotion, and celebratory energy.
The Royal New Zealand Ballet (RNZB) is a company of dynamic dancers. Each season, they perform an eclectic repertoire of outstanding dance for national and international audiences. From 19th century classics to 21st century contemporary works, the aim is to present dance of outstanding quality. With its 2026 programme, it continues to push artistic boundaries under the influence of artistic director Ty King-Wall.
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