How did that happen? We are already near the end of the first quarter of 2022! Daylight savings is about to come to an end, and Easteris just around the corner…Maybe things seem to be happening so fast because we live in an era of utter chaos, filled with the language of uncertainty and relentless waves of drama, not to mention inflation and invasions. In this tumultuous time, three classic songs help me to maintain my focus and look ahead:
Ch-ch-ch-ch-Changes.
‘Time may change me, But I can’t trace time,’ sang David Bowie for the first time in January 1972. This song has been my backing track for March, when Omicron hit its peak, nearly half of NZ has been in isolation, the borders have opened up, and the rules
have just changed – again. All at the same time as spiralling inflation is forcing interest rates up, which usually means consumer confidence will dip. Let’s not forget that homeowners now also have new CVs, some rising steeply, some seeing more minor changes – and even some seeing lower values than in 2017. All of this change has of course spilled over into the property market, which has also changed in terms of its outlook and activity. And because the market hasn’t really landed into a new mode yet, there appears to be some fear being expressed out there.
Show Me What You Got.
Thanks Jay-Z. You’re so right: the more certainty we can see as we look ahead, the more we can help people to dial back on the fear and think forwards. On this basis it is good news that the Government has begun to safely scale back some of the requirements around vaccine passes, mandates and overall settings. Also on the positive side, it is worth remembering the overall context: property prices have been through the biggest boom that we have ever seen. Although the 2021 market prices became unsustainable and the great bull run has come to a close, we can still make 2022 your year when you think the right thoughts and make wise plans.
Should I Stay Or Should I Go?
It is as though The Clash lives in Parnell or Remuera. They have the question spot-on, as I am regularly asked “do I wait for a better moment to buy another and or sell my home?” This is a big decision, and I can tell that “this indecision’s bugging me” as Joe Strummer sang. What I suggest when considering this is to put your feet down solidly and take a look at ‘what does the place you want to move to do for you’, and you will find your decision will be right for you. This is a more rigorous process than it sounds, and I can help you through it if you decide to consider making a move going forward.
I hope you’re now humming one of these songs in your head by now. As you do so, please enjoy the latest data, which I have enclosed here.
Ciao for now, and take care,
