Q&A
WITH NEW OWNERS OF LANDMARK HOMES AUCKLAND SOUTH & FRANKLIN
Prestigious building franchise, Landmark Homes Auckland South & Franklin recently came under the new ownership of Michael and Colleen Walters who have extensive experience in the home construction business including local developments. ‘New home’ hunters will find them to be knowledgeable and committed to meticulous craftsmanship and service. SOUTH asked the Walters about their plans for the company’s future. What is it about Landmark Homes which compelled you to buy the franchise? Landmark Homes has always been renowned for quality homes with a strong sense of tradition. We decided the opportunity to buy such a respected company was too good to miss – being at the coalface of designing and building contemporary homes which, nevertheless, encompass both character and superior workmanship made sense to us. What building or associated background experience do you bring to the company and is it a full time job for you both; if so what roles will you will? We have both been in the industry for quite some time in various roles including owning, at one time, our own plumbing and roofing company in Whangaparaoa. Michael is a craftsman plumber by trade and through his extensive knowledge of the roof sector, he also sits on the boards of RANZ (Roofing Association of New Zealand). The company will be managed by Colleen who has worked for a leading group house builder for the past seven years so, taking on this role, makes sense. Those who know Colleen also know she is more than capable of fulfilling the role and will be supported by an experienced team and subcontractors. The nationwide catchphrase for Landmark Homes is, ‘Don’t just Build a Home, Build a Landmark!’ What does this mean to you? Each home we build is unique just like its owners. Discerning home hunters usually want a house which is different from others. In order to provide them with a
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New franchise owner, Colleen Walters (right) with new home consultant, Bonita Lim. Photos Wayne Martin
true ‘Landmark’ we see our role as bringing their vision and ideas to life while guiding their choices where needed. We want to give every client the opportunity to have a home which reflects who they are and fits seamlessly with their lifestyle. To do this we are committed to building high spec, award-winning homes which exude quality while we also consult with and inform our clients from go to whoa. How will you go about delivering on your build priorities? We work with a team of architects, builders and subcontractors including colour consultants and interior designers to achieve homes which encourage everyday family living complemented by on-trend fixtures and fittings to suit taste and personal style. In addition each client is assigned a project manager to work directly
with them through the build to ensure any queries or issues are dealt with quickly, appropriately and entirely to the client’s satisfaction so that the whole build is stress-free and fun, too. Building a new home is exciting and we aim to maintain that excitement and delight throughout by using an experienced, sensitive and highly skilled team.
also close to many new building developments.
Your Landmark Homes franchise is now based in the Old Karaka Church at 458 Karaka Road, Karaka, formerly operated as a fashion, homeware and gift store. What made you choose this location and unique building for your office?
What do you now see as your ongoing build philosophy?
It is indeed a beautiful building and, in keeping with our own company name, it is – a landmark! We felt that made it an appropriate fit for us. Hard to miss, it is well located with ample off street parking on a main route from the motorway to Pukekohe and is
As a former church its ethos would have been to treat people with respect and dignity whilst always offering a warm welcome; that is a philosophy we, as the new owners of Landmark Homes Auckland South & Franklin also wish to perpetuate.
Obviously to deliver homes which have style, are built to exacting standards, offer customised options as well as build value and are the ‘home’ clients want for themselves. Most Landmark Homes are ‘design and build’ but if clients choose an existing plan it can be customised to maximise sun and views and, importantly, to include the clients’ wishes while respecting their budget. We understand that not www.southmagazine.co.nz
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