1.    Confidence levels high - Business confidence levels remain strong at net 48% for May*. This points to a strong economic recovery ahead, with the composite indicator at a level consistent with over 5% year-on-year economic growth by the end of this year. Significantly, a net 45% of survey respondents expect better times ahead for their own business in a year’s time – this is the highest own activity reading since May 1999*.  The economic outlook is very positive which is good for medium term employment and property values.

2.    Interest rate rises - June has swung around quickly and all eyes will be on Alan Bollard next Thursday for his official cash rate (OCR) and monetary policy announcement. With the economic recovery picking up pace, the Reserve Bank is expected to slowly begin to remove its monetary policy stimulus - most economists are expecting a first increase in the OCR of 25 basis points (up from 2.5% to 2.75%).  Now is a great time to review the rates and terms of your mortgage lending…are you getting the best deal you can?  I work with a preferred mortgage broker who has advised clients with great feedback.  If you would like independent advice drop me an email or visit my website…it may save you a lot of money! (leonie@leoniesnook.com).

3.    Out-promote for top prices - my clients achieve better results for a reason.  Firstly smart and adaptive marketing campaigns, great photos, property presentation and leading edge technology gets your property to stand out from the crowd…out to the masses…and more buyers through.  This is followed up with best practice pricing approaches, negotiation, and passion in spades to secure the very best result. I work with clients all over Wellington to plan their success at the outset :-). If you hear of a friend, family member or work mate who is thinking of selling (or struggling to sell) put them in touch for free and no-obligation real estate advice, or forward the link to my website (www.leoniesnook.com).  They will be pleased with the results and service...and you will receive generous referral rewards :-).

* National Bank Business Outlook Survey - May 2010 - percent expecting better business conditions in the next 12 months minus percent expecting worse business conditions.

Leonie Snook, Top Wellington Real Estate Agent, Wellington