Is this the death of the ‘doer-upper’? Why buyers are ditching the DIY dream

The Kiwi dream of a doer-upper is fading as buyers increasingly seek turnkey convenience. A Trade Me survey shows 49% of buyers want a new or updated home, driven by a desire for budget certainty amid rising building costs.

This has created a quality gap, with 51% of buyers struggling to find suitable properties. Sellers with modernised homes hold a competitive advantage. The "summer slump" is a myth, as property engagement remains high over the holidays.