That was the challenge facing Tommy’s Real Estate when the agency listed 73-75 Hawker St, otherwise known as St Gerard’s Church and Monastery.
“It’s probably the most unique building we have marketed,” Tommy’s Sales Director Nicki Cruickshank says.
“We have sold a number of churches over the years, and we did sell the Air Traffic Control Tower a couple of years ago — that was pretty unusual and also attracted a lot of interest at the time.“
She says marketing a property of St Gerard’s magnitude requires more planning by the agent and marketing department.
“Establishing the target market is key, and making sure that the reach is there. The response to the marketing has been incredible across all platforms.
“We are part of a worldwide group called Leading Real Estate Agents of the World with reach into 52 countries.
“We’re also part of the NZ Realtors Group, have a close association with Barfoot and Thompson in Auckland, and have our own local reach with our large presence in Wellington City.
“So far we have had over 85,000 views on websites, which surpasses any record we have ever seen before in Wellington for any property.
“Just to put into perspective, we would normally get 4000-5000 views per property. “
Nicki believes St Gerard’s would be the most valuable site outside of the central city, and not just because it covers about 2433 square metres.
“Any site that has such stunning views, close proximity to the city and great sun is really the ultimate site.”
She says prospective buyers have been well informed about city values and aware of the required earthquake strengthening and restrictions imposed by St Gerard’s Heritage One category listing.
“The agent, James Copeland, says feedback has ranged from ‘an opportunity not to be missed’ to ‘a project just too big’.
“However, everyone that he, and all of our Tommy’s agents have taken through, have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of seeing the property first-hand.
“Although we have had a number of enquires from overseas, and some investors down from Auckland to have a look, I would suggest it is mainly established Wellingtonians that have done well in their lives, perhaps looking to give something back to the city and looking to restore so that it remains an icon for generations going forward.
“It is a building you can see from all over the city, it is the first icon you notice when driving into Wellington on State Highway 1 and while lit up at night you can see it from the air when returning to Wellington.
“A number of people have commented to James that it makes them feel like ‘they are home’ when they see it.
“The tender closes this Thursday, so hopefully we will see this iconic building go to someone who will turn it into something great!”
View the listing here: http://bit.ly/3mSG9XK
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