The Press – At Home
Ohara & Dean editorial, publishing Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Building a new home and choosing a design that best suits their lifestyle, budget and section can be a confusing and sometimes stressful process for many people. To overcome this, O’Hara & Dean Ltd helps people choose from the many options available in a hassle-free way that is not only enjoyable but also saves time and money, says co-director Janet Dean..

As a new-home broker, the company introduces an innovative concept to Canterbury.

“The benefit of our service is that we offer free, independent advice to guide people through the entire building project, using our extensive network of contacts.

“People love the concept because they’re able to come to one place for a wealth of industry knowledge.”

Dean, who has over 10 years’ experience in the building industry, sees the company as the link between everyone involved in the building process – from clients, builders and bankers to designers, valuers and real estate agents.

“When a client comes to us we listen to their ideas and expectations regarding their new home or investment property. We then make design suggestions and look at pricing implications of the various options and building specifications.

“Depending on clients’ needs, we help them choose a suitable section or land-and-house package. We can obtain competitive quotes for clients who have already had plans drawn by an architect or architectural designer or, for those who are starting from scratch, we assist in choosing a plan and arrange to have it designed with state-of-the-art, 3D views.

“Understandably, people are extra careful in today’s economic climate but we have a good handle on which companies can be trusted by the way they operate, their integrity and their stability. We don’t like people being let down, so we only deal with top-notch companies that have been around for a long time.”

Helping clients make decisions as required Dean even extends her service to shopping trips.

“Building companies usually have standard specs and if clients want to change anything, they need to organise it themselves. If they want a different toilet or taps, for instance, I will go to various plumbing centres with them and help them choose well.

“Every choice can have technical ramifications, so clients appreciate having someone to offer advice and bring up points they may not have thought about.”

In addition to supporting clients building their own home, O’Hara & Dean help with new investment properties, which Dean says make an attractive option, due to their affordability and capital gain, especially with current reductions in land prices and interest rates.

“Building any house can be nerve-wracking, particularly for people who haven’t done it before, but using our experience and skills makes it as stress-free and enjoyable as possible.”

• O’Hara & Dean is at 238 Barrington Street, Spreydon, Christchurch. Phone 03 943 3657 or see oharadean.co.nz.