Understand the Hamilton property market – a guide for investors

Keen to snap up an investment property in Hamilton before the hordes arrive in spring?  Here’s some pointers, especially for first timers or those unfamiliar with the Hamilton market. 

Where we’re growing

Hamilton is growing in all directions, but particularly in the north-west (Rotokauri and Te Awa Lakes) and the south (Peacocke).  It might not look like it now, but these areas will receive the lion's share of investment when it comes to amenities and infrastructure in the decades ahead. This will have a big impact on property values, and you won’t have to lift a finger. 

Hamilton’s growth strategy has relied on 50% greenfield and 50% infill development for some time which has contained the sprawl. Growth is coming from many sources but for the most part it’s migrants, Kiwis moving north and from rural parts of the country.

How we move around the city

Hamiltonians still love their cars and investment in cycling infrastructure has been patchy at best.

However, thanks largely to smart planning, the city remains relatively compact and easy to get around.  We’re also reaping the benefits of the Waikato Expressway – a massive roading project that means traffic flows freely through and around our city. 

This investment in roading has ensured lifestyle living remains a popular option, with many people choosing to live outside the city’s boundary and commute daily for work and school. 

Where the jobs are

Ruakura Inland Port has been quietly expanding its footprint, and the employment prospects here continue to grow.

The North-West (Horotiu) is also popular for business, particularly those in logistics, manufacturing and distribution, with several new commercial developments now surging ahead to meet demand.  

Other large employers of note are Waikato Hospital (Hamilton Lake) and the University of Waikato (Hillcrest).   

What you need to know about the housing stock

While there are neighbourhoods where villas and bungalows are plentiful, Hamilton housing typology is extremely diverse. Standalone family homes on individual sections dominate but townhouses and apartments are on the rise. 

 
The city is also big on contemporary family homes (think large, open-plan and energy efficient), particularly in the North-East suburbs of Rototuna, Flagstaff and Huntington.

It also has its fair share of state houses – functional but ripe for transformation, particularly in popular neighbourhoods like Hamilton East. 

It’s important to note that Hamilton’s growth strategy has required new developments to be a blend of both attached and detached housing which has paved the way for new townhouses and duplexes. 

If you’d like deeper insight into investing in Hamilton get in touch with General Manager Jason Waugh or join our Investors Club for regular emails featuring his picks for great investment properties.