What do today’s downsizers actually want, and how can builders better meet that demand? Find out what the research is telling us, and how Sentinel Homes is helping homeowners downsize their homes without downsizing their expectations.
Are modern homes quietly pulling families apart? Stu Shutt explores how thoughtful home design can bring Kiwi families back together.
Whether you were born and raised on the farm or are just starting to consider a move to the country, rural property opens up more than just space; it opens up options. While additional considerations such as service provision and site access may apply compared to standard suburban sections, rural properties provide significantly more possibilities across the board.
In New Zealand, subdividing your section is an increasingly popular way for landowners to make a smart investment and create opportunities for their families. However, for those in the know, the process is notoriously complex, with a range of factors to consider to ensure regulations are met and that you’re making the best use of the land you have.
Many of us dream of escaping the rat race and getting away from the hustle and bustle for a more relaxed rural lifestyle, with wide open spaces, community vibes, and a little bit of peace and quiet. But for those looking to make this dream a reality, it can be pretty daunting to find somewhere that provides the lifestyle they crave, alongside the modern, comfortable home they’ve always wanted. That’s where we come in!
It can be tricky to work out what really makes one home builder different from another, and what that means for your build experience, the quality of your finished home, and how it’s going to work for you and your family in the long run. So we asked Sentinel Homes Managing Director, Stuart Shutt, to break down what sets Sentinel Homes apart and why so many Kiwis choose them for their mid-market home builds.
The end of the year is coming fast! And even though December feels like a mad rush to the finish line, we wanted to take a minute to pause and take a look back at the past year and reflect on what we’ve been up to in 2025. So to do this, we thought we’d look back and recap our five most popular blogs from the year, and highlight some of the key achievements, ideas, and expert advice that struck a chord with Kiwis looking to build their dream home with Sentinel.
When it comes to building a dream home, we all wish that we had an unlimited budget to play with. Unfortunately, this is rarely the case! However, with some honest conversations, smart decisions and clear vision you can still get the home you’ve always wanted for a price that works for you.
For Sentinel Homes’ newest franchise owner, Ethan Moser, life is all about balance – whether it’s managing two distinct regions or keeping up with his energetic twin boys. Based in Taupō, Ethan brings a hands-on approach and a safe pair of hands to the local building scene.
When you hear the word ‘value’, your mind probably jumps straight to budgets, affordability, and costing spreadsheets. Although this is obviously one of the most important factors for anyone looking to build a home, true value goes way beyond just the numbers.
The House of the Year awards are back for another year and that means another year of awards for our collective Sentinel Homes trophy cabinet, with our builds across the country being recognised for their craftsmanship, innovation, and quality.
It’s no secret that there have been a lot of challenges in the wider economy in the post-Covid lockdown years, which may have made some people hesitant to consider building their own home. But for those in the know, there are plenty of reasons why now is the time to get in quick and take advantage of some truly beneficial market conditions.