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Home / New Zealand

Max Key's property investment portfolio includes another Auckland transformation

NZ Herald
14 Dec, 2021 12:07 AM3 mins to read

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Max Key's property in Mt Albert has been transformed.

Max Key's property in Mt Albert has been transformed.

Max Key has won praise for his efforts in flipping an Auckland property - but it's not the first time the young developer has made a lucrative sale.

Key took to Facebook yesterday to announce that he had sold what he described as his "first project" but it is understood that the young developer has also sold another Auckland home.

The property in Mt Albert, which Key purchased for $1.4 million in June last year with help from his parents, was transformed after the original home on the site was pushed back and another house added at the front of the section.

The Mt Albert property seen before development (rear view). Photo / Ray White
The Mt Albert property seen before development (rear view). Photo / Ray White

It is understood that the original home at the rear of the property has sold and the other house, billed as having "vintage vibes" and marketed asking for inquiries from $1,750,000, is under offer.

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Key snapped up the property, which sits in the Mt Albert Grammar zone, for $1.4m last June, which was 22 per cent about its council valuation at the time.

The property now, featuring two separate homes (front view). Photo / Ray White
The property now, featuring two separate homes (front view). Photo / Ray White

Azel Saralaeva from Ray White said that potential buyers had noted the high quality of the renovation and it attracted a lot of comments. "It wasn't a rush job. It was definitely one that was taken with a lot of skill and care."

Yesterday Key announced that he had sold a property in Glen Innes that he converted to three townhouses.

He was praised for the execution of the renovation by some online.

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"Did a great job turning 1 ugly house into 3 beautiful homes for first-time buyer," one person wrote on Twitter.

"Could have built 3 x 3 storey monstrosities. Well done, they are cute!"

Another took a dig at the Labour Government's efforts in the housing market, writing: "That's how you do KiwiBuild".

Max Key's development in Glen Innes. Photo / Supplied
Max Key's development in Glen Innes. Photo / Supplied

These sales are unlikely to be the last for the son of former Prime Minister Sir John Key.

Max Key is listed as the director of multiple companies with an apparent interest in property development.

In his post to social media celebrating his Glen Innes sale, Key hinted at his future moves.

"But after hours of blood, sweat and anxiety-ridden tears, I can proudly say we've sold our first development and are progressing into bigger and better things," he wrote.

"On reflection, this project not only taught me about the intricacies of the industry but the qualities within myself. Thank you to all the contractors, family and friends who supported us throughout, I can't wait to see what the future brings for MTK Capital! Onwards and upwards!"

Champagne lifestyle

Video posted online showing one of the homes on the Glen Innes section gives a glimpse of the sort of property being developed by the young mogul.

It shows a well-appointed home with restrained styling - and a touch of luxury.

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Max Key has won praise for the finishing of his Glen Innes properties.
Max Key has won praise for the finishing of his Glen Innes properties.

As the camera sweeps through the small property we glimpse a bottle of Taittinger champagne on the table before we glimpse, through leaded windows, an outdoor setting complete with imported sparkling water.

There was criticism from some that Key was only able to make his property moves due to his privileged position, but others disagreed.

"He has actually done a nice job," said another support on Twitter. "There is no need to rag on him because he has a rich family."

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