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EVES Real Estate is thrilled to announce its strategic expansion in the Eastern Bay of Plenty through a joint venture with McDowells Real Estate, which operates two well-established offices in Rotorua and Whakatane.

This move marks a significant milestone in the history of both companies, as two of the longest-standing and most respected names in the region come together. “The McDowell team are a great cultural fit for EVES,” says CEO, Heath Young.  “We share underlying family-business based values while maintaining a professional approach and applying high energy levels to the customer experience; there is a natural synergy.”  

For over five decades, EVES Real Estate, owned and operated by Realty Services Limited, has been a trusted name in the property market. Realty Services Limited, now has a network of 27 offices across four regions and a dedicated team of 557 professionals. This joint venture is an investment into the region, which Young believes has huge potential, and is an exciting step in EVES growth strategy. It also strengthens both teams’ commitment to serving the communities of the Eastern Bay of Plenty. “This joining of our teams promises to deliver an even higher standard of service, driven by a shared vision of excellence, innovation, and community-focused values” Young adds.

Steve Lovegrove, owner of McDowells, sees this as a continuation of a shared legacy: “After 48 years, this is another step in our journey together. Back in 1976, the real estate landscape in New Zealand was a patchwork of independent, family-branded businesses. As pioneers in the industry, Max Eves, from Eves and Coxhead Real Estate in Tauranga and Ian Mcdowell from McDowell real Estate in Rotorua recognised the need for a ‘Network of Land Agents’ across Aotearoa New Zealand to share ideas and business referrals. They, along with thirteen others around the country got together that year in Palmerston North and formed the United Trading Society as a co-operative network. Today, as the world of real estate evolves with new technologies and shifting client expectations, it's only fitting that our two pioneering brands unite to lead the way forward.”

This historic joint venture not only reflects a merging of two powerful legacies but also signals a future of growth and innovation. The combined strength of EVES and McDowells will offer unmatched expertise in residential, lifestyle sales, and property management, supported by EVES world class Resource Centre and a passionate team. The newly combined entity aims to dominate the market and cater to the needs of both current and future residents of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

“Our teams are excited to join forces and better serve the communities of Rotorua and Whakatane,” added Lovegrove. “Together, we are stronger, more capable, and more committed than ever to raising the bar in real estate service.”

Much of the success of investing in residential property lies in securing reliable tenants and ensuring that you are getting as much rent as possible. That’s where EVES Property Management comes in. We care for your property like it’s our own while ensuring you get the best return on your investment. With local expertise and a dedicated approach, we’re here to help every step of the way.

If you are thinking about becoming a landlord, check out our frequently asked questions below:

1. What responsibilities do I have as a landlord?

As a landlord, your primary responsibilities include maintaining the property in a safe and habitable condition, complying with Healthy Homes Standards, making necessary repairs, providing proper notice before entering the property, and managing the property according to New Zealand Tenancy laws. 

When you engage the services of an EVES Property Manager, they will manage all tenant relations, coordinate repairs when required, conduct regular inspections, maintain accurate records throughout the tenancy and keep you informed of upcoming changes to legislation.

2. How do I determine the right amount of rent to charge?

Setting the right rent amount involves researching current market trends in the local area, while taking into consideration the property's location, size, condition, and amenities. It's important to balance competitive pricing with your investment goals to attract and retain quality tenants. Our experienced property managers can provide a detailed market analysis, with a recommended rental amount. You can request a free rental appraisal here.

3. What is a bond, and how much is this?

A bond is a predetermined sum of money paid by the tenant at the beginning of the tenancy. This amount must be lodged at the Bond Centre within a certain timeframe and is securely held by the Bond Centre at Tenancy Services throughout the duration of the tenancy. The bond acts as security for you, the landlord, against potential damage to the property or unpaid costs including rent. 

Typically, the bond amount is the equivalent of four weeks' rent. This must be returned to the tenant at the end of the tenancy, provided there are no damages or outstanding costs or rent.

4. Who is responsible for utilities and council rates?

Generally, tenants are responsible for paying for utilities like electricity, gas, and internet, unless otherwise agreed upon in their Tenancy Agreement. Water rates will be charged directly to the landlord by the local council. The property manager can then bill the tenant for the required amount to reimburse the landlord.  

5. What happens if the tenant is late paying rent, or misses a payment?

If a tenant is late paying rent, the property manager will work with the tenant to get the rent paid on time and ensure no payments end up being missed. Tenants are encouraged to set up automatic payments through their bank to ensure they pay consistently and on time. 

If issues persist, and the tenant continues to be late paying or falls into arrears (owing less than 21 days rent) the property manager can issue them with a 14 day notice to remedy. If the tenant owes 21 days of rent or more, the property manager can apply to the Tenancy Tribunal for termination of the tenancy. Our property management team can handle these situations professionally and in compliance with legal standards.

6. Can the rent be increased during the tenancy?

Yes, this includes both fixed and periodic tenancies. Your property manager will conduct annual rent reviews to ensure your investment property is still receiving optimal rent in the current market. If a rent increase is required, tenants will be given at least 60 days' written notice, in accordance with New Zealand Tenancy Law. Rent increases can only occur once in a 12 month period.

7. What are my obligations under the Healthy Homes Standards?

The Healthy Homes Standards require landlords to ensure their rental properties meet specific standards for heating, insulation, ventilation, moisture ingress and drainage, and draught stopping. These standards aim to improve the quality of rental homes and ensure that tenants have healthy and comfortable living conditions. 

At EVES, we have a dedicated Healthy Homes Coordinator who works with our property management team to ensure properties are compliant with these standards. There is a fee for Healthy Homes checks, but once completed we can assist you in bringing your property up to standard in the most cost effective way. 

8. How are tenant disputes handled?

Handling tenant disputes involves clear communication, understanding the legal rights and responsibilities of both parties, and often mediation. If disputes escalate, the EVES Property Management team will represent you in Tenancy Tribunal hearings. Such occurrences are rare, but our team are experienced and well-versed in tribunal proceedings, and will help mitigate and professionally manage any disputes.

9. What insurance do I need as a landlord?

Landlords need to have their investment property insured with cover specific to rentals. Some premiums can also cover things like loss of rental income, vacancy periods or tenant damage. Tenants should have their own insurance for things like contents and liability.

10. Why should I choose EVES for property management?

Choosing to engage the services of an EVES Property Manager ensures that your investment is managed by knowledgeable and experienced professionals. We stay abreast of all legislative changes, offer comprehensive tenant screening, maintain proactive property maintenance, and handle all administrative tasks associated with property management. Our expertise in the market positions us as leaders, making us the best choice for managing your investment. 

Leaving your property in our capable hands will also save you time, as managing your own investment involves a huge amount of work, and can be stressful. 

For more information check out our full list of 'Frequently Asked Questions: Landlords' at evespropertymanagement.co.nz

*The above information is intended as a guide only and landlords are encouraged to do theri own due diligence in consultation with their property manager.