Buying property is exciting and often wonderfully life-changing. Off-the-plan apartments have become an increasingly popular way to enter the market, move up the property ladder or downsize to simplify your life. It’s important to understand how purchasing off-the-plan differs from buying an existing property at auction or through private treaty. Off-the-plan buying can allow you…
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Buying a home has many complex aspects that carry substantial liability and are best handled with the advice of a professional. Yet, selecting an adviser can provide its own challenges. When purchasing you have an option to choose a solicitor or conveyancer who specialises in property law to complete your settlement. Knowing where the responsibilities…
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The fun you can have renovating your kitchen is almost beyond imagination these days. Design options and colours from which to choose are head-spinning and full of potential to help create a loving, warm home. And if you love a touch of tech, then the latest appliances and gadgets will blow your mind. The humble…
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Rendering is one of the most popular options to brighten the street appeal of a brick house or apartment block. Over the past decade, many suburbs have been fundamentally changed in character by owners who have either rendered existing houses or rebuilt with a render finish. But is it a good investment? Render gives a…
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A fire in your home can happen at any time, but the danger increases with the setting of wood-burning heaters and the use of candles to create a cozy atmosphere. Most fires start in the kitchen and are caused by neglect. You set something on the stove and then get distracted by a phone, children,…
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Many investors will put their money into an apartment, especially when they’re at the early stages of building their property portfolio. With apartments generally more affordable than houses, this can make sense for many. However, investing in a house also has significant advantages. Most have higher rental returns because many tenants have families and want…
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If the home you own is one of Australia’s favourite architectural designs – Federation, Queen Anne or a Californian bungalow – then you’ll likely know all about tuck-pointing. It’s the art of restoring bricks, mortar and stonework by grinding back loose or compromised materials and replacing them seamlessly so your home looks as good as…
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Successful investors regularly assess their portfolio for potential improvements to enhance tenant appeal, increase rental income and grow the capital value of their assets. A keen eye for potential improvements is a valuable asset when inspecting rental properties to buy. Take notice not just of the quality of the building but any simple, low-cost potential…
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A property manager with local knowledge is hard to beat when selecting who should look after your rental. The best ones will maximise your return on investment and minimise the stress of tenant issues. They will know price trends, have a list of potential tenants and use trusted tradespeople and service providers who’ll keep your…
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An empty rental property burns a hole in your pocket as an investor so you need to minimise this risk by drawing up a pre-leasing plan with your property manager to find a new, trustworthy tenant as soon as the current one leaves. Good tenants who pay their rent on time are gold, and you…
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