Ask Kiri

Our Director and resident expert Kiri Barfoot answers your most frequently asked questions about property management, tenants and other tricky subjects.

Got a question for Kiri? Email: [email protected]

Heating Requirements

16 April 2021

Autumn has arrived and with it comes with changes. Here's what landlords need to know about heating standards and requirements.

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What landlords should know about 2021 phase 2 of the RTA changes

29 January 2021

Phase 2 of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2020 comes into effect on 11 February 2021. Here's what landlords need to know about these changes.

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What landlords should know about 2021

14 December 2020

It has certainly been a year with lots of ups and downs but we are so lucky to live in a place less affected than many other countries by the pandemic. As we look toward a new year, here's a few things that landlords can keep in mind in 2021.

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Healthy Homes Compliance Statement

29 November 2020

From 1 December 2020, landlords must include a separately signed healthy homes standards compliance statement in new, renewed or varied tenancy agreements.

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Healthy Homes Standards Claim Deductions

28 September 2020

Being a landlord comes with numerous responsibilities, one being submitting taxes related to your rental property. It's important to always consult your tax consultant or IRD directly for specifics on tax-deductions

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Mortgage rates are appealing for investors

26 July 2020

In the last 30 years mortgage rates have fluctuated. Investors need to take note of what are now, record lows. If you are planning to start or expand your property portfolio, now is the time to move.

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What do I need to know about Alert Level 3 restrictions?

04 May 2020

Looking at the Tenancy Services guidelines, here are the key things landlords need to know at level 3.

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To grow your property investment portfolio or not - what do the stats say?

05 July 2019

Interested in growing your property investment portfolio? We looked at the statistics and current industry trends to provide some insights when making this all important decision. Find out more.

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Taxes for landlords

25 March 2019

As a landlord, what you are able to claim back as part of your taxes can sometimes be easily overlooked. We put together a list of items that should appear on your checklist when completing your taxes.

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What do I need to know about the new healthy homes standards?

26 February 2019

The new Healthy Homes Standards have been announced by Housing and Urban Development Minister Phil Twyford. This is what you need to know.

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Why choose Barfoot & Thompson?

20 January 2019

Making the decision to choose a Property management company is not an easy one so we are pleased that you choose Barfoot & Thompson. Here's a summary of the services that we offer our landlords.

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What do I need to know about Loan to Value Ratios?

20 December 2018

On 28 November 2018, the Reserve Bank loosened the Loan to Value Ratio (LVR) restrictions for both investors and owners-occupiers, with changes coming into effect in January 2019. This is what you need to know about LVR.

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What do I need to know about the Anti-Money Laundering Act?

22 November 2018

If you are thinking about selling your current property or investing in new property in 2019, then you need to know more about the AML and Countering Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Act that all real estate agents need to comply with from January 2019.

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How do I take my property investment strategy to the next level?

29 October 2018

If you're wanting to take your property investment strategy to the next level, here are some steps you can take to make it happen. 

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What maintenance should I consider in Spring?

20 September 2018

Spring is the ideal time to take care of any winter build-up. Find out what maintenance you could consider for Spring.

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How do I keep my property warm and dry in winter?

20 August 2018

As a landlord, ensuring that your property is dry and well-heated is a must. By law, you’re only required to provide a certain amount of heating to keep tenants comfortable; however, taking a few additional steps can save you a lot of maintenance in the long run.

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Who is responsible for pest eradication?

18 July 2018

Even in the colder months, it’s important to stay on top of pest control. Read on to discover how to control various types of pests.

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Maintenance mistakes landlords make

14 May 2018

Here are some of the most common maintenance mistakes that landlords make.

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What do I need to look for in an investment property?

18 October 2017

Whether you're starting out investing in real estate or adding to your already-substantial portfolio, here are some things to consider when buying a rental property. 

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What do I need to consider before becoming a landlord?

18 September 2017

Are you starting out in property investment? Here are some things to ask yourself before becoming a landlord.

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Should I get a professional cleaner in between tenancies?

27 April 2017

If there is a change in tenant in your rental properties, it can be a great idea to get a professional cleaner in before the next tenant moves in. 

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Why have a property manager arrange maintenance?

20 March 2017

There are numerous reasons why having a property manager arrange maintenance for your property is beneficial to you. Read on to find out the top five benefits.

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What sets Barfoot & Thompson Property Management above the rest?

23 January 2017

If you're considering hiring a property manager to look after your rental property, here are five great reasons why Barfoot & Thompson are a cut above the rest. 

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What are the benefits of using a property manager?

06 December 2016

For some people, hiring an experienced property manager to look after rental investments can be a great option that pays for itself in time, energy and money saved.

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Who pays for water charges in a rental property?

04 October 2016

Water bills and the responsibility of payment in a rental property can be complex and vary depending on the property. Read on to learn about each party's obligations. 

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Why do I need professional photos of my rental property?

10 June 2016

Professional photography services are widely used for selling property, but there are numerous benefits to use it for your rental property listings as well.

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