TOP PROPERTIES: Renovations on the rise

Kiwis spent $1.34 billion on altering kitchens, building garages, decks and the like, for the year to March 2013. 

The value of renovations has contributed to overall growth in building activity, which has been positive for 18 months to March 2013. 

According to Statistics New Zealand, the value of building work on alternations and renovations reached $134 million for the first quarter of 2013. This is up 5.4% from the same period for the previous year, and does not include jobs under $5000.

Building consent data  for the month of May shows year-on-year growth for the renovations category, since 2011. Statistics NZ says this growth is coming from all around the country and is not significantly impacted by the Christchurch rebuild.

Here’s NBR ONLINE top renovation picks for the week:

Khandallah, Wellington

Bed: 5 Bath: 4
316sqm + 140sqm property
CV: $1.325 million
Price guide: Approx $2.5 million

“Tranby” was originally bought in 1904 for a member of the Kirkcaldie family. The building retains all the charm of that time, it has  survived extensive renovation and extension - at one stage it was two flats. The current owners renovated the foyer area about eight years ago with architects Seddon Associates and interior design by Shelley Graham Interior Design. View full listing here.

Grey Lynn, Auckland

Bed: 3 Bath: 1
132sqm property
480sqm land
CV: $1 million
Price guide: upwards of CV
Renovated in 2008

This Scandinavian style home was renovated a few years ago to combine modern living with classic charm. The changes include a shift to open plan living, levelling of the law, new deck and cosmetic upgrades. It was also reinsulated and central heating installed. View listing here.

Point Chevalier, Auckland

Bed: 4 Bath: 1
579sqm section
149sqm floor
Price guide: Approx $1.1 million
CV: $900,000
Renovated in 2008

This is a former state home, which was modified to add two bedrooms and shift the bathroom. It has also replaced all its joinery with all timber joinery and has been significantly landscaped. View listing here.

Westmere, Auckland

Bed: 2 Bath: 2 Car: 2
435sqm land
103sqm floor
CV: $1.4 million

The renovation for this old bungalow was completed in December last year. The owners are only selling as they are relocating to London for work. It boasts features such as a Blum kitchen, Swarovski Crystal lighting and American Oak flooring. It also has a self-contained studio. View listing here.

Parnell, Auckland

Bed: 3 Bath: 1
306sqm section
CV: $810,000 (pre-renovations)
Price guide: $1.3 million
Renovated in 2011

This property has been renovated with new light fixtures, wallpapering and landscaping. The highlight however is the brand new kitchen. It retains a classic stained glass front door and high ceilings. View full listing here.

vyoung@nbr.co.nz