Timaru's booming property market is hitting first home buyers where it hurts –in their wallets.
Thursday, April 8th 2004, 12:16AM
by The Landlord
South Canterbury sub-district REINZ chairman and local registered valuer Roger Carter said first home buyers were paying up to $50,000 more for a home, compared to two years ago.
Homes selling for $90,000 two years ago were now fetching between $130,000 to $140,000.
However, Mr Carter said buying a home in South Canterbury was still more affordable than in other areas.
"Properties – especially those in Timaru – have been underpriced for a long time. And although it has become harder for those buying in the bottom price range it's still far more affordable to purchase a home here than in other parts of New Zealand... I believe we are just catching up," he said.
And the market shows no signs of slowing down, according to Mr Carter.
