Investing in the CBD
Why Nathan Miglani of Squirrel South Island says Christchurch’s central property market is a first-rate opportunity.
When most people think about investment properties in Christchurch, the conversation almost always circles back to schools. It’s practically an obsession here. “What school did you go to?” is the first question you get when meeting someone new.
Sure, suburbs like Burnside, Avonhead, Somerfield, Merivale and Ilam have strong appeal. Standalone homes dominate these areas, and first-home buyers, upsizers and investors are all competing for the same properties. But here’s the thing: despite all the buzz around our great city, the central city remains an underrepresented gem in the property investment space. And that, in my view, is an incredible opportunity for investors who want to think ahead and get in early.
Big players like Williams Corporation and Wolfbrook are already investing millions into CBD developments. Peebles Group is reshaping Manchester Street with the new Downtown precinct. Anchor projects like Te Kaha One New Zealand Stadium, Parakiore Recreation and Sports Centre, and the stunning new Court Theatre are either complete or nearing completion. The city is transforming before our eyes.
At our office, demand for investment property is up 30 per cent. Interest rates are trending down, and there’s a renewed sense of excitement about what property investment can deliver. Properties in central Christchurch can start from around $490,000 – a no-brainer, especially near the stadium. Modern build technologies also mean superior insulation, energy efficiency and minimal noise transfer, so even if
your tenants are not attending the next big game or concert, they’ll enjoy peace and quiet. Plus, new builds typically come with lower maintenance costs and compliance with healthy homes standards, reducing headaches for landlords and increasing tenant satisfaction.
And let’s not forget owner-occupiers. If you’re a young couple with careers potentially taking you overseas in the next decade, a central townhouse makes perfect sense: enjoy the convenience now, then turn it into a rental later. The possibilities are endless.
Here at Squirrel, we have all the solutions you need to make it happen. Whether you’re buying your first investment property, expanding your portfolio, exploring Airbnb options, or planning for long-term gains, our specialist team will help you navigate every scenario and secure the best interest rates for your situation.
Ready to invest in Christchurch’s future? Get in touch with the team today.
