Westpac has launched New Zealand’s most comprehensive online tool for Kiwi home buyers – www.homeclub.co.nz.
HomeClub is the first online resource of its type in New Zealand.
It allows users to collect, compare and store properties in which they are interested and provides valuable information like QV valuations, comparative sales, multiple views of the location with Google maps, mortgage calculators and easy contact with loan specialists.
Westpac Retail Bank General Manager Gai McGrath said that HomeClub is an example of utilising technology to make life easier and simpler for Kiwis.
“It is the way we are evolving, using technology to add value for our customers beyond the traditional services. Homeclub is a New Zealand first, and soon Kiwis will be able to complete the entire home purchase process within Homeclub – outside of physically viewing the property,” she said.
According to Ms McGrath, more than 80% of New Zealanders search for property online, and over the past two years Westpac has seen a 30% increase in the number of home loan enquiries coming through its website.
“New Zealanders have moved on from the more traditional method of acquiring key information from scouring property magazines, beating the feet around open homes, spending time sourcing land valuations and other information and then going about the purchase process. Using HomeClub, these can be achieved in just a few clicks,” Ms McGrath said.
Easy & Efficient
HomeClub builds on Westpac’s existing relationship with TradeMe, and allows users to import their TradeMe property watch list into their HomeClub profile.
Ms McGrath said users appreciate the fact that HomeClub allows them to quickly sort through and narrow down to properties they can actually afford.
“Owning their own home has long been a priority for Kiwis but the process can often be a test of stamina. HomeClub can help smooth the process considerably. By building a unique and comprehensive online hub where users can access and collect all the key information they need in one place as they assess the viability of a property will save time and stress,” she said.
Ms McGrath said that HomeClub taps into the Kiwi property obsession and will have broader appeal than just for those actively house hunting.
“Even if people are not necessarily looking at buying right now, HomeClub will be just as useful for keeping up with the Joneses, seeing how their current property compares to others on the market in the same area, or looking to see what their next move might be,” she said.
Homeclub.co.nz is free, open to all New Zealanders, and capability will continue to be added to the site.
