Amid all the fees and charges of a home loan comes stamp duty. Also called transfer duty, this one-off state and territory government tax levy applies to several everyday situations, such as vehicle registrations and insurance policies. However, stamp duty is most well known for its application to property purchases, including holiday homes, investment property…
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Settlement day can be a highly stressful, but exciting event, especially for first-home buyers. But preparation is key to a worry-free settlement day. What is settlement? Settlement day is the transfer of a property’s legal ownership from the seller, or vendor, to the buyer, and usually occurs around four to six weeks after property contracts…
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Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, a seasoned investor, or simply curious about the nuances of property transactions, the terminology used in the real estate industry can often seem like a foreign language, leaving many feeling overwhelmed and confused. This guide to some of the most frequently used terms has been designed to help you speak…
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Insurance claims can be a tough part of the cleanup process if you get hit with a natural disaster. If you live in flood, cyclone or bushfire-prone areas, it is wise to ensure you have the correct insurance cover, and that it is up to date. Coverage in high-risk areas can also come with a…
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Mulching is a key task for all green thumbs , but why do gardeners love mulch? Easy. It’s the perfect combination of plant defender, weed deterrer, moisture protector, soil guardian, temperature regulator and garden beautifier. Yes, all these qualities can be found in highly scented bags from the local nursery or garden warehouse. Be warned…
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Moving house is recognized as one of life’s most stressful events – up there with divorce and death. Yet 8.2 million Americans moved between states in 2022, according to US Census Bureau estimates released in November 2023. If you need to execute a fast property shift, stress levels can rise even higher, but with efficiency…
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Touted as being the warmest on record, this winter also included freezing arctic blasts in January across most of the country while the south-east experienced a mid-March return to winter after warmer spring temperatures. As a result, American gardens, and especially lawns, are now needing extra help after such a unique, and damaging, season as…
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Towels are one of the most-used items in a home. And even though we’re clean when we use them, they are certainly items that need a good, regular wash. But did you know there is a good and bad way to wash a towel? Whirlpool, Martha Stewart, Better Homes and Gardens, and The New York…
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The Dude was right! Rugs can strikingly add to the ambience of any room in moments while adding both a focal point and surface protection. These additions can also be easily moved or removed altogether, depending on the season, and don’t have to break the budget. Size and position When it comes to rugs, size…
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Cushiony comfort will bring sleep relief faster than you can say snooze and fresh, plump pillows make a bed feel inviting. But finding the perfect pillow can be a nightmare, especially when there are so many possibilities to choose from. The Sleep Foundation recommends buying a new pillow every 18 months as they can quickly…
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