Successful Wanaka Auctions

22 February 2006

Wanaka and surrounds are experiencing strong buying interest for upper end property by those increasingly discovering the stunning Southern Lakes district, according to Harcourts Wanaka Manager, Phil Gilchrist.

Following the recent purchase of the office by long-time successful Harcourts Business Owner, Tony Jenkins (owner of Harcourts Invercargill and Gore offices), the team has also introduced a stronger auction culture which has seen three highly successful recent auctions confirming it as a welcome option by both sellers and buyers. Mr Gilchrist said two prestige properties auctioned on Waitangi day both “sold under the hammer” after competitive bidding from a mixture of local and out of town buyers.

The first property was a 40 year old home on “a magnificent section with stunning elevated views” bought by an “ex-pat” New Zealander living in Dubai. The second property was a section in Lucy’s Way overlooking the lake in Bremner Bay which Mr Gilchrist said was “considered to be some of the best land to be subdivided in the area in the last ten years, surrounded by prestige properties with spectacular views.” Following bidding from a wide range of buyers, the eventual successful bidder was locally based.

The third property auctioned in late January was in Lake Hawea, which Mr Gilchrist described as “a large subdividable block of one of the most elevated sites in the area with the best view.” After being on the market as a ‘general listing’ with a number of real estate offices for 18 months, Harcourts took it over as an ‘exclusive’ early this year resulting in a successful ‘under the hammer’ sale from an auction marketing programme.

Mr Gilchrist said Harcourts has enjoyed a good presence in Wanaka over many years. “Now with its new enthusiastic team, and as a trusted brand offering a stronger auction option we have found buyers and sellers very receptive. Buyers are telling us there is a shortage of premiere properties, and with auctions creating a lot of interest and competition, we are achieving some outstanding results for our sellers.”

In line with building tourism, Harcourts Wanaka reports a strong demand for not only residential, but investment, holiday, lifestyle, and commercial property in both Wanaka and nearby Hawea. Referring to the stunning natural surrounds and environment, Mr Gilchrist said, “We believe the future of the area is well assured.”

ENDS

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