With six strategically located offices across the top of the South Island, Summit combines over 30 years of local expertise with comprehensive property management solutions and specialised real estate services tailored to our unique regional market.
Our experienced team of sales professionals and property managers are supported by skilled managers who ensure every client receives personalised, results-driven service.
As the Top of the South's market share leader, we connect more buyers, sellers, landlords, and tenants than any other agency giving our clients a clear advantage.
The latest figures from the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand show the property market across Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough remains steady overall, with modest price growth and continued buyer activity in key price brackets.
Prices Continue to Edge Up
Median property prices increased across all three regions compared with the same time last year.
Nelson: Median price rose 4.5% to $744,000Marlborough: Median price increased 2.0% to $663,000Tasman: Median price climbed 7.9% to $847,000Across the wider region, the combined median price now sits at $751,000, reflecting gradual growth rather than rapid market movement.
First Home Buyers and Investors Most Active
Buyer activity in February was led by first home buyers, particularly those searching for homes under $800,000, alongside investors returning to the market.
Open homes for newly listed properties attracted good attendance early in the month. However, overall enquiry levels softened slightly after the first couple of weeks.
A Market That Favours Buyers
Current conditions continue to favour buyers, largely due to increased property choice.
With more listings coming to market, buyers have greater opportunity to compare options and take time making decisions. Vendors are increasingly adjusting price expectations to align with market conditions, although some sellers who purchased during stronger markets still hold higher expectations.
Sales Activity Lower Than Last Year
While prices have remained relatively stable, the number of sales has declined compared with February last year.Across Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough there were 192 sales in February, down from 250 sales in February 2025.Properties are taking slightly longer to sellThe median days to sell in Nelson, Tasman, and Marlborough is currently 54 days, which is higher than the 10-year February average of 45 days. This reflects a market where buyers are taking a more considered approach.What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
Overall, the local property market remains stable and balanced.
Buyers currently have more choice and negotiating power.Sellers who price their homes realistically and present them well are still achieving strong results.With listing numbers continuing to grow, market activity will be closely monitored in the months ahead.If you’re considering buying or selling, speaking with a local expert can help you understand where your property sits in the current market.
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Source: REINZ - New Zealand Property Report - February 2026
As we kicked off 2026, the property market across the Top of the South showed a mix of movement and steady conditions.
Key Market StatsJanuary typically sees lighter foot traffic compared to the peak selling months, and this year was no exception. Attendance at some open homes was quieter later in the month, though early-month activity remained solid.
Who’s Buying?First home buyers continued to be the most active group across the region, closely followed by owner-occupiers. With rising interest rates and a notable supply of properties under the $1 million mark, the market remains favourable to buyers.
What This MeansAfter a busy end to 2025, the start of the year saw more measured activity. Buyers are taking time to weigh decisions, while sellers are generally pricing with market realities in mind.
As we move into autumn, many in the industry will be watching how interest rates and buyer confidence shape the next phase of the market.
Stay tuned for more local insights and updates as the year unfolds.
Data Compared to January 2025, REINZ Monthly Property Report (January 2026) Published February 2026.
If you’re investing in property, you’ll likely hear the term rental yield. Simply put, rental yield measures how much income a property earns compared to its value. It’s a helpful way to see how hard your investment is working for you.
At Summit Property Management, we help investors understand the numbers so they can make confident decisions.
Gross rental yield is the annual rental income expressed as a percentage of the property’s value. It’s a quick calculation and doesn’t include expenses.
Formula:
Gross Rental Yield = (Annual Rent ÷ Property Value) × 100
Example:
$600 per week × 52 weeks = $31,200 per year
$31,200 ÷ $700,000 × 100 = 4.46% gross yield
Gross yield is useful for comparing properties, but it doesn’t show the full picture.
Net rental yield takes things a step further. It deducts costs such as:
RatesInsuranceMaintenanceProperty management feesThis gives you a clearer view of your true return.
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Before purchasing an investment property, research comparable rentals, understand demand in the area, and obtain a professional rental appraisal. Calculating both gross and net yield will help you make informed, confident decisions.
If you’d like a rental appraisal or expert advice, contact Summit Property Management today.
Whether you're a first-time investor or experienced property owner, we understand the challenges you face. Our focus is representing your interests while maximising your investment returns through professional, dependable property management services.
Find out moreThinking about a career in real estate? Summit Real Estate offers the region's premier training and support system to fast-track your success in the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough property market.
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Read latest issueSummit's NZ Realtors Network membership ensures your property reaches qualified buyers nationwide while maintaining our deep local market knowledge and community connections that deliver superior results. Local expertise. National reach. Proven results.
Find Out MoreAcross the Top of the South and every corner of our region, our salespeople are renowned for providing exceptional service because our clients deserve nothing less.
Managing thousands of rental properties throughout the top of the South, the region's trusted name in property management saves you time and money, so you can make the most of yours.
With a team of over 100 strong in 6 locations throughout the Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough a friendly Summit branch is likely not too far from where you are.