A new law designed to help first-home buyers has come into force recently. First-time buyers will now be able to increase their savings in the Federal Government’s First Home Super Saver Scheme from $30,000 to $50,000. Almost 27,000 Australians have been using the scheme, which allows them to make voluntary contributions to their super that…
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With the market stronger than ever, there’s never been a better time for buyers to learn the basics of assessing a property’s price before making an offer or attending an auction. Valuation is not a perfect science. You can never tell in a booming market when an auction will perform to expectation or go stellar…
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One of the challenges with preparing your home before a sale is the essential declutter designed to help give prospective buyers the best possible impression of your property. Nothing impacts on a buyer’s perception of room size more than clutter. Not only is it unsightly, it leaves buyers with the impression the room isn’t big…
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Finding asbestos can be a distressing experience when you renovate or buy given its well-documented history as a toxic material. Asbestos is a natural substance of thin fibrous crystals that if inhaled attacks the lungs, causing them to stiffen with deadly consequences. You might find asbestos in any pre-1990 home, as the material was used…
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The decision to downsize is often emotional, requiring you not only to say goodbye to the family home that holds so many memories but let go of possessions that no longer have a place in your life. Downsizing remains an important option for those approaching later years and looking for less stress. Once the kids…
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Installing a brand new bathroom is a great way to prepare your house for sale and achieve the maximum possible sale price. Brand new bathrooms and kitchens have the most impact on buyers during inspections, and they will certainly set your home apart from most of the properties currently for sale in the neighbourhood. Planning…
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When the heat in a booming property market eases down a notch, sellers need to become more competitive to maximise the value of their homes. Some buyers may feel they have the whip-hand, thinking they can low-ball you because the banks predict rising interest rates. But that’s not true if they’ve set their heart on…
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Deciding when to sell your home which is so often your great financial asset, is one of the biggest decisions directly affecting your wealth. Sometimes, a sale will be forced due to personal circumstances or a change in employment. But if you have a choice in the timing, then it pays to study not only…
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With so much attention on the current election campaign and the prospect of higher interest rates, it’s easier for first-time buyers to decide to wait and see where the market is heading. But that can be a mistake. Instead, you should focus on your own game and stick with your ambition to enter the property…
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Americans continue to spend billions of dollars every year upgrading their homes. Remodeling can be a great strategy if you’re thinking of selling or renting out your place as if you have the work done with care, there’s little doubt you’ll achieve a better financial outcome by investing in this way. Bathrooms and kitchens are…
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