Author: Kylie Davis

Prepare for plumbing issues this winter

Plumbing is one of those elements in our homes that gets little attention until something goes wrong. But, did you know that colder weather can play havoc with drainage and pipes? As an experienced agency and property manager in our area, we see three common plumbing problems that can be caused by inclement and colder…
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Tips to fix a bad case of mould

The rainfall generated by the El Nina weather system has given homeowners many challenges, from plugging roof leaks and finding sunny days to mow the lawn to battling ugly, furry mould that suddenly appears on walls and ceilings. Many cases of mould can be attributed to the damp weather and lack of ventilation throughout the…
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Maintenance hints for wet weather preparation

The rain that has been our almost constant companion on the East Coast this year has made the ground so wet that it could start affecting the structures of some homes. State capitals Sydney and Brisbane have been inundated with more than 1,200mm and 1,500mm respectively, and many regional areas have been hit harder. Cairns…
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Setting the negotiation table

When you sit down to negotiate the purchase of a new home, do you know what’s on the table?  Are you about to have a conversation that’s only about money, or is there more to talk about? This type of conversation is most common in the Australian market after a property has been passed in…
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Stay warm while reducing your bills

It’s amazing to think winter is already here; just in time for our electricity and gas prices to increase.  Escalating energy costs, plus rising food and fuel bills, suggest there’s never been a better time to adopt a few basic measures to keep your home warm during these cold months. A well-insulated home is highly…
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Turn up the heat outdoors for a winter sale

When you’re preparing to sell your home in winter months, don’t relegate your back garden and entertaining area in favour of improvements indoors. You can make your garden appealing with just a few inexpensive touches that will win over prospective buyers despite the falling mercury. Two favourite improvements are the installation of a pizza oven…
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Rental shortages make now a good time to consider investing

Favourable conditions for property investors are again emerging as rents rise and higher interest rates start to take the heat out of the market. Weekly rents increased 4.7% in the 12 months to March. That’s the strongest growth in almost eight years, according to the latest REA Group’s PropTrack rental report. The low number of…
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7 hot selling tips for a cooler market

Successful sellers will be adjusting their expectations this winter as we begin to experience a cooling real estate market after a 12-month period of record-breaking prices. Higher inflation and interest rates are starting to temper buyers’ exuberance, but it doesn’t mean selling your property is a bad idea.  In fact, it’s probably quite the opposite,…
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Don’t panic about higher interest rates

The recent 0.5% rise in the target cash rate set by the Reserve Bank is not a cause to panic or shelve your plans to purchase a new property. It’s just part of the reality of our financial lives. The cash rate has increased to 0.85% to calm any chance of uncontrolled inflation and a…
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Three simple tips to kill mould after the rains

The record rainfalls we’ve experienced have caused many homes to feel and smell damp and even suffer from mould. Mould is unsightly, releases a lingering odour and, most importantly, is unhealthy. Luckily, it’s not a giant headache to put right. A combination of dampness creeping into your home and insufficient ventilation causes most mould problems. …
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