Photo: Tracey RoxburghAnnual growth rates in house values around Otago and Southland continue to climb, but growth over the most recent quarter reveals an easing to 3% or less for most places. The latest Quotable Values house price index shows nationwide residential property values rose steadily during the past year by 4.8%, but dropped by 1.6% for the three months to August. ''The [southern] regions' value for money continues to appeal to a range of buyers, even during the quieter months,'' Mr Nagel said. ''Spring's going to be a very interesting time for the residential property market, as we see what unfolds when a few more buyers and sellers enter the market,'' Mr Nagel said. ''First-home buyers continue to benefit from less competition and are driving modest value growth, particularly in low-to-mid value areas,'' he said.

Source: Otago Daily Times September 05, 2018 16:41 UTC