Is this the death of the ‘doer-upper’? Why buyers are ditching the DIY dream

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Is this the death of the ‘doer-upper’? Why buyers are ditching the DIY dream

With the increasing cost of living and rising building costs, more Kiwi are putting down the tools.

Casey Wylde
Last updated: 29 January 2026 | 3 min read
AI

AI summary

The Kiwi dream of a doer-upper is fading, with buyers now favouring move-in-ready homes. A Trade Me survey shows 49% of buyers want a new or updated property, seeking to avoid rising building costs and budget uncertainty. Only 6% are actively looking for a fixer-upper.

This has created a "quality gap," as a lack of suitable properties is the top barrier for buyers. Sellers with modernised homes hold a significant competitive advantage in the current market.

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Casey Wylde
Trade Me Property Spokesperson

Trade Me Property Spokesperson Casey Wylde

The quality gap

The myth of the summer slump

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Casey Wylde
Trade Me Property

Author

Casey Wylde Casey Wylde
Spokesperson and Industry Success Manager