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If you’ve started doing a bit of research online, chances are you’ve come across this line:
“Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make.”
It’s everywhere. And while it is true, it can also feel a bit... overwhelming. Like, no pressure, right?
But here’s the … View moreIf you’ve started doing a bit of research online, chances are you’ve come across this line:
“Buying a home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make.”
It’s everywhere. And while it is true, it can also feel a bit... overwhelming. Like, no pressure, right?
But here’s the thing — yes, buying a home is a significant financial decision, but it’s also so much more than just numbers. You’re not just investing in property — you’re choosing a space to live your life, to create memories, to feel safe and settled. This is about building your future, not just your portfolio.
Feeling a little panicky is totally normal — but there are some simple steps that can help you move forward with confidence:
✨ Learn as much as you can about the process
✨ Get yourself prepared ahead of time
✨ Take it one step at a time — in the right order
And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone. A knowledgeable, local real estate agent (👋 hello!) can walk beside you from start to finish, helping you make sense of everything and keeping it all on track.
This is your journey — let’s make it a good one. 🏠💛
✅ Step 1: Financial Foundations
• Check your credit score
• Fix any issues on your credit report
• Start saving for:
o Deposit (usually 10–20% of the purchase price)
o Additional costs:
* LIM Report
* Builders Report
* Registered Valuation
* Lawyer’s fees
* Moving costs
• Talk to your bank and a mortgage broker
• Apply for mortgage preapproval from multiple lenders
• Compare interest rates, terms, and loan features
✅ Step 2: Define Your Dream Home
• Set your budget based on preapproval
• Choose your preferred Tauranga suburbs (e.g., Bethlehem, Papamoa, The Lakes, Otumoetai, Mt Maunganui etc)
• Create a list of:
o Must-haves (e.g. 3 bedrooms, double garage, close to schools)
o Nice-to-haves (e.g. sea view, home office, big backyard)
• Prioritise your list
• Share your wishlist with your real estate agent
✅ Step 3: Choose the Right Agent
• Talk to at least two or three local agents
• Ask about their experience in your target areas
• Pay attention to:
o Communication style
o Local knowledge
o Whether they listen to your needs
o If you feel comfortable with them
✅ Step 4: Get Informed
• Ask your agent for blank copies of the forms you’ll be signing
• Learn the process of:
o Making an offer
o Conditional vs. unconditional contracts
o Settlement day
• Ask questions about anything you don’t understand
• Keep your paperwork organised
✅ Extra Tips
• Stay flexible- perfect homes rarely exist, but the right one will feel right
• Keep emotions in check during negotiations
• Don’t skip due diligence—even if the home looks great
• Celebrate each step—you’re making progress!
For more info contact me for no obligation advice.
Please print out your copy of the ACtS Gallery bear (our mascot) for your child to colour in.
Also, we are looking for name suggestions for our mascot!
Submit to 18 Farm street when you are done.
Be in to win your own ACtS Gallery bear!
Competition closes May 4th.
Entries will be on display … View morePlease print out your copy of the ACtS Gallery bear (our mascot) for your child to colour in.
Also, we are looking for name suggestions for our mascot!
Submit to 18 Farm street when you are done.
Be in to win your own ACtS Gallery bear!
Competition closes May 4th.
Entries will be on display in the gallery for the month of May.
Please come and see!
ASB bank have shared a message to make people aware that messages from scammers claiming they are from our ASB Securities team are doing the rounds.
If you receive one of these messages don’t act on it, don’t click on any links on suspicious emails and text messages, or provide any personal… View moreASB bank have shared a message to make people aware that messages from scammers claiming they are from our ASB Securities team are doing the rounds.
If you receive one of these messages don’t act on it, don’t click on any links on suspicious emails and text messages, or provide any personal or banking information.
If you think you’ve provided your details to a suspicious person or company, please call your bank immediately.
ASB are available 24/7 on 0800 ASB FRAUD (0800 272 372), or +64 9 303 0332 if you're overseas.
For ASB users, if you want some more info on staying safe online visit asb.co.nz/asbscamhub
Don’t wait until summer to get painting. Simply add Resene Wintergrade Additive to selected waterborne Resene paints to waterborne Resene paints to winterise them to help you keep decorating through winter.
Winterised paints can dry down to a super cool 3’C!
Available from … View moreDon’t wait until summer to get painting. Simply add Resene Wintergrade Additive to selected waterborne Resene paints to waterborne Resene paints to winterise them to help you keep decorating through winter.
Winterised paints can dry down to a super cool 3’C!
Available from Resene ColorShops.
Quality sleep is essential for everyone. As we approach National Safe Sleep Day on June 6th, ensure your sleep environment promotes health and safety. Explore our Sealy Posturepedic range during the Power Weekend Sale to find your perfect mattress.
Small timber planter box.
Measurements: 66 x 14 cm. Height 18 cm. All measured inside.
A 30-liter bag tomato mix is shown for size. Or buy for $18.
Pickup from Papamoa East. Contact: Elly 027 – 371 8720
Warm, fragrant hot cross buns are always a firm favourite in Ryman villages over the Easter holidays. It’s also the perfect time to spend with family – and what better way to create a festive atmosphere than by baking some delicious hot cross buns with your grandkids?
Nothing beats … View moreWarm, fragrant hot cross buns are always a firm favourite in Ryman villages over the Easter holidays. It’s also the perfect time to spend with family – and what better way to create a festive atmosphere than by baking some delicious hot cross buns with your grandkids?
Nothing beats home-made, and this recipe, shared by Ryman chef Matt Orr, will make a perfect Easter treat. As they bake, your home will be filled with the sweet aromas of Easter, and you’ll have a wonderful snack to enjoy together. So, let’s get baking!
Click read more for the full recipe.
The Prospa Local Business Hero Awards are back and we’re searching for the standout local businesses that have made a real impact over the past year!
It’s time to celebrate the incredible businesses that help make our communities such special places to live. Nominations are now open – … View moreThe Prospa Local Business Hero Awards are back and we’re searching for the standout local businesses that have made a real impact over the past year!
It’s time to celebrate the incredible businesses that help make our communities such special places to live. Nominations are now open – click the link below to nominate your Local Business Hero and help them get the recognition they deserve.
If you haven't nominated your favourite local business yet, make sure you do it today.
Concerns have been raised about Nelson Hospital with complaints of lack of staffing and excessive wait times. Do you have confidence in your local emergency department?
Looking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at
… View moreLooking for a thoughtful gift for Mum? Give her something she'll enjoy all year round with a magazine subscription!
Whether she’s passionate about gardening, inspired by beautiful homes, or loves to keep up with the latest entertainment, you’ll find the perfect match at
Mags4Gifts.co.nz.
This Mother's Day, save up to 35% on subscriptions – perfect for Mum, Grandma, a special mother figure, or even as a treat for yourself!
Don't miss out – shop now and make her day unforgettable!
From the team at Mags4Gifts
Kia ora neighbours. We will give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine, and we're on the hunt for all things lime! Send your family's favourite way to use up this citrus, to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by April 17, 2025. If we use it in the mag, you will receive… View moreKia ora neighbours. We will give away free copies to readers whose recipes are used in our magazine, and we're on the hunt for all things lime! Send your family's favourite way to use up this citrus, to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by April 17, 2025. If we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of the June issue.
An opportunity to register in person for Term 2 classes is available at the Clubrooms on Saturday 12 April, any time from 10am to 2pm.
You are invited to meet with members of the Tauranga SeniorNet Club Inc. during the club’s free open day and enquire how the club can help you use your digital … View moreAn opportunity to register in person for Term 2 classes is available at the Clubrooms on Saturday 12 April, any time from 10am to 2pm.
You are invited to meet with members of the Tauranga SeniorNet Club Inc. during the club’s free open day and enquire how the club can help you use your digital devices.
Where? Tauranga SeniorNet Club Inc. Building 70 at the Tauranga Historic Village.
Tauranga SeniorNet term two program starts on Monday 28th April.
Check out the web site of Tauranga SeniorNet Club Inc. www.taurangaseniornet.co.nz... for who can join, programs and all that the club offers, including a map of where it is and details on how to contact the club.
It hasn't been that long since our last list of recalled products but they keep coming! There's been some popular products recalled recently and we want to make sure you're not using these.
Check out the list and click on the blue text to find more information.
Food recalls:
… View moreIt hasn't been that long since our last list of recalled products but they keep coming! There's been some popular products recalled recently and we want to make sure you're not using these.
Check out the list and click on the blue text to find more information.
Food recalls:
Pams afghan oat baked bars
Daily Bread / Dough Boys hot cross buns
Gilmours beef stock and bouillon
Daily Foods Co hot and sour seasoning & spicy perilla leaf seasoning
Lianhua Supermarket ready to eat chicken and pork pieces
Dr Bugs fruit candy popcorn
Product recalls:
Serene S2068 bathroom heaters
Kmart/Anko Double Walled Coffee Cups with Lids
Panda Mart baby walker
Panda Mart fairy cake toy
Panda Mart ice cream car
Panda Mart toy cars
Panda Mart various table lamps
Makita grease guns and flexible hoses
Panda Mart gardening tool
Polaris Ranger kinetic
Panda Mart mini night light
Conversion lead
Turbo Como e-bike
The Warehouse / Young Original sleepsuits
Paint smart with NZ’s widest range of Eco Choice approved paints, available at your local Resene ColorShop. Enjoy low odour, no or low added VOCs paints, made in NZ and independently verified so you can bring out the best in your project.
Come in and see your local Resene ColorShop today!
A second person has been arrested and charged with murder following the death of a man in Kawerau on 26 February.
A 15-year-old male was taken into custody after Police executed a search warrant at an address in Otara, Auckland yesterday.
He is due to appear in the Manukau Youth Court today, … View moreA second person has been arrested and charged with murder following the death of a man in Kawerau on 26 February.
A 15-year-old male was taken into custody after Police executed a search warrant at an address in Otara, Auckland yesterday.
He is due to appear in the Manukau Youth Court today, 11 April.
Yesterday’s arrest comes after a 21-year-old man was arrested and charged with murder on 27 March.
The 21-year-old is due to reappear in the Tauranga District Court on 30 April.
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