While some parts of Tāmaki Makaurau have recently felt a bit of a “public sector malaise,” Kumeu and the Northwest continues to attract people who value open space, lifestyle blocks, and a sense of community. We are currently in what economists call a “Goldilocks” phase: conditions aren’t too hot, but they certainly aren’t cold.
The Local Numbers:
Median Value: The average house value in Kumeu and the Northwest reflects the premium lifestyle and larger land holdings of the area, offering significant value when compared to the inner-city Auckland median.
If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to step onto the property ladder, 2026 is shaping up to be your year. Market commentators are calling this a “Goldilocks” period for first-home buyers—conditions are “just right” with a record 28.4% market share held by this group at the start of the year.
Why the shift?
Greater Choice: National inventory remains at high levels, giving you the luxury of time to find a home that truly fits your lifestyle.
Lower Deposit Barriers: Recent LVR (Loan-to-Value Ratio) changes now allow banks to allocate up to 25% of their new lending to owner-occupiers with less than a 20% deposit.
Stabilising Prices: While national values are expected to rise by a modest 2% to 5% this year, the frantic “FOMO” of previous cycles has been replaced by realistic, balanced negotiations.
Our Advice: Don’t just chase the lowest interest rate. Focus on a mortgage structure that offers flexibility and long-term resilience.
Ready to make your move?
Whether you’re curious about your home’s current value in this stabilising market or you’re ready to start your search, we’re here to help.
At Ray White Kumeu, we know that moving to the Northwest isn’t just a change of address—it’s a choice to embrace a slower, more intentional pace of life. We don’t just sell houses; we sell the lifestyle of being at the heart of Auckland’s heritage wine country. Here is how … Read more
For those of us in Tāmaki Makaurau, the market is behaving like a “normal” market again. While national headlines might talk about broad trends, Auckland is a collection of unique suburbs, each moving at its own pace. Current Auckland Trends: The “Move-In Ready” Premium: Buyers are currently prioritising homes that … Read more