WATCH: Inside Caitlin Crisp’s Sunny Ellerslie Home

Buying a property in Auckland is notoriously challenging, and for Caitlin, simply securing the home remains her proudest achievement. 

"What I’m most proud of in our home is the home itself - how hard we worked to get it," she says.

Caitlin fondly recalls the day they finally took possession. "Coming in when there was no furniture, we had the biggest smiles on our faces. We even stopped a random person walking down the street to get our first photo in front of the house."

Despite not having a massive floor plan, the home punches well above its weight when it comes to hospitality. "We love entertaining in this house," Caitlin says. "It’s not a huge house, but we can host so many people."

Clever use of space, including a beloved window seat and perfectly arranged couches, creates what Caitlin describes as "a bit of a grandstand for rugby games." In the summer, the outdoor areas open up to accommodate large gatherings for special occasions.

That same window seat also serves a sweeter, daily purpose. "I love our window seat. It’s really special; I hold Charlie up when Andrew is coming home, and I feel like he recognizes his truck now."

Life with a young baby means adapting the daily routine. With Charlie currently going through a tricky sleep phase, mornings begin gently. "My husband usually does the morning shift and brings me a coffee or hot chocolate in bed," Caitlin says.

Location is everything, and for this family, Ellerslie has proven to be the ultimate neighbourhood. "I just think this area is so underrated, and we couldn't rate it more highly," Caitlin said.

Being a stone’s throw from a Pilates studio, great shops and parks allows the home to function as a true retreat. "Whether I need to sweat it out or rest it out on the comfy couch, those options are right in front of me."