Monthly Landlord Newsletters

Welcome back to the Propertyscouts Monthly Landlord Newsletter, where we update you on all things New Zealand property market, investor insights, seasonal reminders, and more.

What the 2026 Election Means for House Prices

If we were a property investor keeping one eye on the 2026 market, we’d be bracing ourselves for a bit of uncertainty. Most forecasts suggest a modest lift in house prices nationally this year, somewhere around +5%. Not spectacular, but not disastrous either.

The tricky part? Two big factors could slow the market down. First, there’s more housing supply coming through, and with it, some pressure on prices. Second, investors are being cautious. Rising costs and the looming General Election have many sitting on the sidelines, wondering whether to buy, sell, or hold tight until the political picture clears up.

On the flip side, there are reasons to stay optimistic. Mortgage rates are trending lower, which can make buying a bit easier for some. And with employment prospects remaining strong, there’s still underlying demand from buyers who need a place to call home.

The catch? With the election drawing closer, we could see a pause in buying and selling activity, as people wait to see what government policies might look like. This isn’t unusual,  it’s a pattern we’ve seen in past election years. For investors and landlords, it’s a reminder that timing is everything, and keeping a close eye on both market trends and political developments is smart.

So, if we were looking at 2026 through the eyes of a cashed-up investor or a savvy landlord, our takeaway would be: don’t panic, but stay alert. Opportunities will arise, especially if sellers start getting nervous, but it’s just as important to be prudent with your numbers and strategic in your decisions. Remember, the market rarely moves in a straight line, and a little patience now can pay off later. Read more here

Creating rentals tenants don’t want to leave

If you’ve ever had a great tenant, you know how valuable they are. They pay on time, look after your property, and generally make life easier. The tricky part is keeping them long term. Once they’re happy, you don’t want them looking elsewhere. A few smart, practical tweaks to your property can make a real difference.

Make outdoor space count

Tenants don’t need a landscaped masterpiece - a small deck, paved area, or even a flat patch of lawn with some privacy makes a home feel far more liveable and adds an extra “room” to enjoy.

Small details go a long way

Inside the home, things like good lighting, decent window coverings, and keeping on top of maintenance might seem minor, but after a year living through the seasons, tenants notice exactly what works and what doesn’t.

Quality over cheap fixes

Cheap fittings might save a bit upfront, but they rarely last and often end up costing more in repairs and replacements. Reliable, well-made products keep tenants happy and reduce ongoing headaches.

Safety and comfort matter

Simple upgrades like sensor lights, secure doors and windows, off-street parking, or even a fence can make tenants feel safe and settled. Going a step further, bedroom heaters, ventilation, or timers on bathroom fans, makes a noticeable difference in how warm, dry, and comfortable a home feels.

Storage is key

Not glamorous, but incredibly practical. Wardrobe organisers, bathroom cabinets, a lockable shed, or attic storage make life easier for tenants and can stop them from looking elsewhere for a home that ticks all the boxes.

The bottom line

Keeping tenants happy isn’t about chasing trends or constantly upgrading. It’s about thoughtful, practical choices that make everyday living easier. When tenants feel comfortable, secure, and proud of their home, they’re far more likely to treat it like their own,  and stick around. Read more here

The Latest Ask An Expert from Within the NZ Property Investor Magazine

Propertyscouts is a designated property management expert in the popular magazine - NZ Property Investor. Propertyscouts, recently entered a response to their recent 'Expert Advice Q&A'. Read our latest entry below:

Question: I see the Government is increasing the meth contamination limit in rental properties from 1.5 micrograms to 15 micrograms per 100cm². Does this mean tenants can now smoke meth inside a property and it’s fine as long as the residue doesn’t go over 15 micrograms?

Answer: Not quite. While the new regulations will lift the official contamination threshold to 15µg/100cm², that doesn’t make meth use acceptable or lawful inside a rental property. Meth use is still a criminal offence and a clear breach of the RTA. Specifically:

● Section 40(2)(a) - tenants must not intentionally or carelessly damage the premises.

● Section 40(2)(b) - tenants must not use (or allow others to use) the premises for any unlawful purpose, which includes using meth.

Some people might argue that if the residue stays below 15µg/100cm², it couldn’t really be called “damage” because no decontamination would be required. But that doesn’t hold much weight. The Tribunal has previously accepted that contamination or residue from unlawful drug use can still amount to damage, depending on the context. Plus, the landlord may still face costs for testing or reassurance for future tenants, even if no cleaning is technically required.

The higher 15 µg threshold is really about the Government wanting to reduce unnecessary clean ups and costs from extremely low readings - but many in the industry have voiced concern that 15 µg is too high and risks normalising trace meth in rentals.

And just a reminder - the new rules aren’t in force yet. They’re expected to take effect sometime in 2026 once the full framework is finalised.

In short, while the new limit helps bring clarity around what counts as “contamination,” meth use itself remains illegal and a breach of tenancy, regardless of the test results.

Quote to Ponder

“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” - Mark Twain

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Disclaimer

Given the opinions expressed in parts of the email, it’s important that we make it clear that the contents are opinions and observations and made in good faith.  

Propertyscouts 2025 Limited, trading as Propertyscouts, and its associated parties (including directors, agents, employees, officers or otherwise) have attempted to provide   this information to the best of their ability but do not make any representations or warranties of any nature (intended or implied) as to the accuracy of the information on this communication. All recipients of this communication should conduct and rely on their own enquiries in relation to the information on this communication.

The information available on the properties listed for sale, rent or otherwise, has been obtained from the vendor or landlord of the property and the appropriate professional service providers. We do not and cannot verify or guarantee the accuracy of the information obtained in relation to the properties.

The information and/or materials available in this communication are intended to be general information only and may be changed at any time, without notice to you. The information and/or materials in this communication should not be relied on under any circumstances as a substitute for legal, financial, real estate, or other professional and/or expert advice. To the maximum extent permitted by law, Propertyscouts and its associated parties disclaim all liability, responsibility, and negligence for any direct or indirect loss or damage suffered by any person arising from the information and/or materials presented in this communication or any information and/or materials that arise from it.