How Real Estate Agents Can Turn a ‘Risky’ Plaster Home Into a Selling Point

Your guide to explaining plaster homes with confidence

If you’ve been in real estate for any length of time, you know the reaction:

“Oh, it’s plaster… I’ve heard those are nothing but trouble.” or "Oh its a leaky home."

Plaster homes in New Zealand often come with an unfair reputation. While some have had issues, many are solid, well-built, and perfectly sound — and with the right presentation, you can turn that “risk” into a unique selling point.

Here’s how to address buyer concerns head-on and present plaster homes with confidence.

1. Reframe the Conversation Early

The moment a buyer spots plaster cladding, they may start thinking about “leaky homes” and costly repairs.Your job? Shift the focus from fear to facts.

Key talking points for open homes and conversations:

• Not all plaster homes leak — many are completely watertight.

• Modern repairs and maintenance methods make these homes just as reliable as any other cladding type.

• Plaster offers a sleek, seamless look that’s hard to match.

2. Get the Right Evidence in Place

Buyers don’t just want to hear reassurance — they want proof. This is where a pre-sale plaster maintenance report from a trusted specialist (like Edge Group) can be your secret weapon.

A professional report can:

• Highlight the home’s current condition.

• Show evidence of regular maintenance and care.

• Recommend simple repairs to be completed before listing.

When buyers see documentation from an independent expert, they’re more likely to trust the property and the process.

3. Present the Property in Its Best Light

A little pre-sale attention goes a long way:

• Repair hairline cracks to remove any perception of structural issues.

• Repaint for a fresh, modern look that photographs beautifully.

• Clean the exterior so it’s spotless for viewings and marketing photos.

These relatively small steps can make a huge difference to first impressions — and to your eventual sale price.

4. Know Your Buyer Education Points

When talking to buyers, keep explanations simple, confident, and positive:

• “Like any home, plaster needs regular maintenance — but with the right care, it’s just as durable as brick or timber.”

• “This property has been professionally inspected and any necessary work has been done before listing.”

• “The seamless finish of plaster means fewer joins, which can actually make it easier to keep moisture out.”

5. Partner With a Specialist You Can Trust

At Edge Group, we work with agents across Taupo to:

• Provide independent plaster maintenance reports.

• Complete pre-sale repairs and repainting.

• Help overcome buyer objections with facts and evidence.

We’re not just here to repair homes — we’re here to help you sell them faster, for more, and with fewer last-minute surprises.

Ready to turn that “risky” plaster home into a standout listing?

📞 Contact Edge Group today to book a pre-sale plaster home inspection or maintenance quote. We’ll give you the confidence to market any plaster property — and give your buyers the confidence to make an offer.