Against the stunning backdrop of Picton, our annual Summit conference delivered far more than just corporate training. With 80+ attendees—including Summit real estate licensees, Summit property management team, and our management team—gathered together for professional development, it was our chance to collectively sharpen the skills that make the difference when markets shift, when that "sure thing" needs more time, or when we need to pivot our approach entirely.
This year's summit focused on the theme "How to Sell More to Residential Investors," featuring three exceptional speakers who brought both expertise and inspiration to our annual training intensive:
David Palfreyman - Auckland
Real estate coach and trainer who transforms agents from zero to hero with content-rich interactive sessions.
Dr. Alia Bojilova - Auckland
Performance psychologist and former NZ Army officer delivering masterclasses in resilience and high-pressure negotiation.
Ed McKnight - Auckland
Property economist and co-host of The Property Academy Podcast, turning complex market data into practical investment advice.
Beyond the exceptional learning and professional development, our annual summit created unforgettable moments of team bonding and memorable entertainment. As the military saying reminds us: "You don't rise to the occasion—you sink to the level of your training." Our Summit conference ensured that level reached new heights for everyone involved.
Summit is literally behind the team—our logo is featured on the back of the FPC and NPC shorts throughout the season. Just like on the field, in property, it's all about position, support, and achieving great results. With six offices and the largest team in the region, Summit is here to support you every step of the way.
Go the Mako!
Owning rental property can be profitable, but managing it yourself isn't always the best choice. Here's when hiring a property management company makes sense.
6 Signs You Need Professional Property Management1. Your Property is Far Away
If you don't live near your rental property, you need someone local who can:Handle emergencies quicklyCheck on the property regularlyKnow reliable contractors in the areaMeet with tenants face-to-face when needed2. You Don't Want the Hassle
Managing rental property involves lots of tasks:Collecting rent every monthFinding and screening tenantsHandling maintenance and repairsDealing with tenant complaintsFollowing landlord lawsIf this sounds overwhelming, hire a professional.3. You Want to Stay Out of Tenant Drama
Many landlords prefer to avoid direct contact with tenants. A property manager handles:Difficult conversations about late rentComplaints and disputesMove-in and move-out inspectionsEvictions if necessary4. You're Too Busy
If you have a full-time job or other commitments, property management takes time you might not have. Professional managers work while you focus on other things.5. You Can Afford the Cost
Property management typically costs 8-12% of your monthly rent. Many owners find this worthwhile because:It saves time and stressProfessionals often get higher rentsProperties stay rented longerYou avoid costly mistakes6. You Own Multiple Properties
The more rental properties you own, the more sense professional management makes. It's much easier to have one company handle everything than juggle multiple tenants yourself.What Good Property Managers Do
A quality property management company will:
Find and screen good tenantsCollect rent and handle late paymentsCoordinate all maintenance and repairsConduct regular property inspectionsHandle legal issues and evictionsProvide monthly financial reportsHow to Choose the Right Company
Look for a property manager who:Knows your local rental marketHas good reviews from other landlordsOffers clear, fair pricingUses modern technology for communicationHas proper licenses and insurance offeringThe Bottom Line
Hire a property management company if you value your time, want less stress, or lack experience with rental properties. While it costs money, good management often pays for itself through higher rents, fewer vacancies, and avoiding expensive mistakes.
Ready to learn more?
Contact Summit today for a free consultation to see if professional property management is right for your rental property.
At Summit Property Management, we know trust is earned through clarity. That’s why we’ve rolled out industry leading video inspections — giving landlords a front-row seat to your property's condition, from wherever you are.
No guesswork. No blurred lines. Just real-time walkthroughs, expert commentary, and peace of mind delivered straight to your screen.
"Thank you for the very detailed and accurate video inspection. This is an excellent record of the interior and exterior condition of 13 Milton Terrace. I believe this method of reporting on rental properties to be first class. Cheers"
— Henri, Investment Property Owner Picton
"I’ve found the video inspection tours to be invaluable — they provide a comprehensive view of how well our house and section are being maintained”
— David, Richmond Landlord
For a clear view on your investment, Contact a local Property Manager
The market! The market seemed to hit a bit of a wall mid-May, after 2-3 months of sustained high levels of activity on all price points. Our higher end stock has slowed a little this month but our first home market is still ticking away nicely! As we write this we are about to present 8+ offers on a property, this property is well priced, presented and promoted, that’s the key! Winter will go quickly and following that we should see the best periods in Real Estate for our region than we have seen for a few years, bring it on!
Number of Sales May 2025
Number of Sales May 2024
Average Number of Days to sell
Average Sale Price
Nelson
85
70
45 Down 25
$685,000 ^2.2%
Tasman
83
52
47 Down 4
$790,000 ^1.3%
Marlborough
80
36
40 Up 4
$650,000 Down 5.1%
Source: REINZ May 2025 New Zealand Property Report. Data Compared to May 2024.
The Power of Numbers
When it comes to real estate, size matters. Summit Real Estate has the largest sales team in the Top of the South, and that scale directly benefits you. With 50+ agents working together across six local offices, we bring unmatched market reach, expertise, and buyer connections to every property transaction.
Our networked approach means every listing is exposed to more potential buyers, increasing competition and achieving better results. We don’t just work as individuals—we collaborate across our team to match buyers and sellers, ensuring no opportunity is missed.
Having the biggest team also means more local knowledge. Our agents are deeply connected to the communities they serve, providing insight into market trends, buyer demand, and pricing strategies that deliver the best outcomes.
Whether you’re selling, buying, or investing, choosing Summit means choosing a team with proven success, the widest reach, and the power to get results.
Ready to make your move? Contact the team today.
Summit recently celebrated its 33rd Annual Awards, marking another year of market share growth, company expansion, and individual success. We continue to sell and manage more properties than any other agency in the Top of the South. Thank you to our entire team - this achievement is a true testament to your dedication and hard work!
We ended the financial year on a high note, with twelve of our team members achieving Champion Status:
Congratulations to Vicki Weetman, whose continued energy and positivity earned her the Excellence in Real Estate award, and to Ryan Horncastle, who received the coveted Rookie of the Year award for his excellent sales results.
Our Property Management team continues to set the standard in the region with several new innovations introduced over the past 12 months. Congratulations to our top performers: Avei Douglas and Sarah Crawford.
We also recognised the loyalty and long-standing commitment of several team members:
Samantha Buys,
Viv Smith,
Michael Fox, and
Bevan Dixon.
A long-service acknowledgment was presented to Val Cooper—thank you for your contribution, Val. Congratulations to our Richmond Office, who once again took out the title of Top Office for Sales and Property Management—a great achievement and well-deserved recognition for the whole team.
Last year, we celebrated a major milestone—20 years and 1,000 editions of the Summit Weekly, which remains a powerful tool for connecting people with real estate opportunities. This success is made possible by the strength of our team, our full-service approach, our far-reaching marketing—and most importantly, by you. To every client who has trusted us to sell, manage, buy, or rent—thank you. Your continued support keeps Summit at the forefront of the market, and we’re truly grateful you chose us.
David Turnhout, Operations Manager
Summit Real Estate is thrilled to announce the appointment of Rob as the new manager of our Picton office, bringing a unique blend of sporting excellence and real estate expertise to the Marlborough Sounds property market.
Before transitioning into real estate, Rob was a highly accomplished professional golfer, where he honed the focus, patience, drive, and commitment that are essential for success in his current career. These same skills seamlessly translate into his work as a Real Estate Sales & Marketing Consultant, where he consistently strives for excellence.
Working alongside his partner Sophie, Rob brings 100% dedication to everything he does. The same energy and determination he once devoted to his sporting career are now focused on helping clients achieve their real estate goals. Whether facing a challenge in his professional life or personal interests, Rob's enthusiasm and motivation are evident from the moment you meet him.
As a devoted father of four, Rob understands the importance of home as the heart of family life. This drives his passion to help his clients find not just a house, but a place where they can truly feel at home.
Based in our Picton office, Rob and his team serve clients throughout the Marlborough Sounds region, including waterfront properties, lifestyle homes, and investment opportunities across the stunning Sounds area.
Contact Rob Ilott and the Summit Real Estate Picton team today to discover how their dedication and expertise can help you achieve your real estate goals in the Marlborough Sounds.
Learn more