Trends Property Insight Series

You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/PodcastIn this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Nat Jakich of Box to unpack what really makes a residential project run well. Drawing on decades across site and office, Nat explains why getting the builder involved early with the designer and engineer turns a good concept into a deliverable plan, with clearer pricing, fewer surprises, and a smoother path through consent and construction.Nat breaks down the decisions that matter most: foundations and structure that suit the site, access and excavation planning while heavy machinery is on hand, and simple, durable detailing that keeps homes warm, dry, and easy to maintain. He shares how direct, honest communication with homeowners prevents small issues from becoming costly problems, and why showing a realistic schedule early — then tightening it at pre-line — keeps confidence high.We explore the renovate-versus-rebuild call, including when retaining character makes sense and when starting fresh delivers better performance and value. Nat also lifts the curtain on Box’s team model, from long-term subcontractor relationships to training apprentices, so quality stays consistent from framing to handover.Whether you are planning a careful renovation or a new architectural build, this conversation shows how early collaboration, practical sequencing, and transparent client updates protect budgets, save time, and deliver homes that work beautifully for New Zealand living.You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/Podcast

You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/PodcastIn this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Damian Francis from Frontier Pools to unpack the full journey from first idea to first swim. With a background in landscaping and concrete, he explains why the best pools begin with a solid design, clear goals, and a site plan that considers access, fencing, and the entire backyard — not just the water.Damian walks through the early steps: engaging a landscape architect, shaping a concept that reflects how you actually want to live, and navigating consent with pool fencing in mind. He demystifies common decisions — pool size, shape, filtration, heating, and finishes — and shares when features like infinity edges or integrated spas make sense.We dig into the build realities many homeowners miss: tight Auckland sites, rock excavation, machinery access, and sequencing the dig so landscaping benefits from the same window of work. Damian outlines typical timelines from construction to handover and explains why planning for a concealed cover early can save money and improve the look while reducing evaporation and running costs.Finally, he breaks down water care options (salt-to-chlorine, mineral systems, automation), the basics of maintenance and valet services, and the simple habits that keep water clear with minimal effort. Throughout, Damian returns to the real payoff — time together. A well-planned pool becomes a daily ritual for kids, teens, and parents alike, turning the backyard into a place to connect, unplug, and make memories for decades.You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/Podcast

You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/podcastIn this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Elaine Ferguson, licensed real estate agent, former TVNZ designer, and trained psychotherapist, to explore what truly drives a successful sale. From the first phone call to settlement day, Elaine shares a practice built on authenticity, proportion, and an experience that feels as good in person as it looks online.Elaine explains why editing a home often beats over-staging, and how clean sightlines, natural light, and a clear entry sequence shape buyer perception within seconds. She walks through the small presentation wins that compound, including house washing, window cleaning, a freshly painted front door, and furniture placement that supports flow. You will also hear how to match the campaign to the most likely buyer, with practical guidance on auctions, tenders, deadline sales, and price by negotiation in a New Zealand context.Drawing on her background in psychotherapy, Elaine unpacks the psychology of trust at open homes and the art of honest feedback without dwelling on known negatives. She shows how to run a no-surprises campaign using realistic timelines, builder checkpoints, and pricing conversations that keep momentum. For sellers, she sets out a simple path from declutter to photography. For buyers, she offers open-home etiquette, smarter feedback for agents, and a research method that beats algorithms through real comparisons and sold results.To round out the episode, Elaine shares lessons from 19 personal renovations, including why layout comes first, how a master plan prevents throwaway spend, and where to invest when budgets are tight. Whether you are preparing to sell, hunting for your next place, or refreshing the rooms you live in now, Elaine’s message is clear: the best results come from calm preparation, clear communication, and spaces that welcome people the moment they arrive.You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/podcast

You watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/PodcastIn this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Aaron Sampson from Hot Spring to talk about the real choices that make a spa a smart everyday wellness tool, not just a backyard luxury. We look past the brochure specs and into what actually lowers running costs, insulation that works as a system, efficient pumps and heaters, and the humble cover (plus a lift assist) that keeps heat where it belongs.Instead of juggling chemicals, we explore saltwater care that creates chlorine naturally and can keep water sparkling for up to a year. Aaron explains why that means less fuss, fewer additives, and a gentler soak. We also cover practicalities people miss: how a site visit can solve access, orientation, and views; when a plug-in model is enough; and why “closer to the house” often means more winter use.We get into layouts and living: open-plan seating that suits families, when lounges help (and when they don’t), and the growing world of aquatic fitness, from compact models used as plunge pools to full swim systems and even underwater treadmills. Aaron also shares why Hot Spring is adding a new old plunge and soon a sauna, completing a home routine that’s about recovery, calm, and time together away from screens.If you’re spa-curious, we finish with a simple path: research the options, sit in a few shells (dry and wet tests), and lean on the dealer network for delivery, power, and deck checks. Whether you’re carving out a small courtyard nook or planning a full backyard wellness zone, this conversation will help you choose well, use it more, and make every day a little better.You watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/Podcast

You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/PodcastIn this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Jennie Dunlop, a spatial designer, to discuss the fundamentals that make a home feel effortless on a day-to-day basis.Rather than jumping to cushions and colours, we look at the moves that really matter: how flow, light and storage shape behaviour, why small courtyards and powder rooms are ripe for impact, and when a glass and steel partition gives separation without losing connection. Jennie shares practical ways to find space you didn’t know you had, question the wish-list, and reuse heirlooms so rooms feel personal instead of staged.We also cover why it’s important to “plan-plan-plan”, the art of decision-making as a couple, and how to work with trades so choices stay on brief and on budget. From timelines and contingencies to the order of selections, you’ll hear where projects go wrong and how to steer them back with simple structure.Whether you’re renovating a villa, fitting out an apartment, or puzzling over a tricky nook, this conversation will help you see in 3D, spot opportunities in every cavity, and create spaces that are more beautiful, practical and uniquely yours too.You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/Podcast

You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/PodcastIn this episode of the Trends Property Insight Series, we sit down with Michael Cooper, principal of Michael Cooper Architects, to talk through the practical decisions that turn good ideas into great buildings you can actually live in.Instead of chasing showy gestures, we explore the quiet levers that matter: how a master plan stops piecemeal renovations, why fixed fees align everyone on budget. The way builder relationships and careful details keep a design beautiful and buildable. Michael explains his “use space twice” mindset, the checks that prevent cost creep, and the simple way he gets to a real budget number early.We also cover coastal smarts (materials, wind, sun, and multiple outdoor zones), the feel of natural finishes and human scale, and what to expect from concept to consent to site meetings. Michael shares why you should choose an architect with whom you gel, stay involved as a client, and trust the process, right down to the last details that make a house sing.Whether you’re mapping a renovation, sketching a new build, or adding a small pavilion or boathouse, this conversation will help you see the big picture, stage decisions sensibly, and move forward with confidence.You can watch this episode by visiting TrendsProperty.com/Podcast