Category: General

Understanding the Impact of Loan Policy Changes on Homebuyers

In the ever-evolving landscape of real estate finance, policy changes regarding loan fees can have significant implications for both potential homebuyers and current homeowners. Recent developments in loan fee structures serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of mortgage policies and the importance of staying informed about these changes. Loan fees, which can include…
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Where to start when you want your home to be ‘smart’

Today’s news feeds seem to feature endless articles on the promise of emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. It can be both awe-inspiring and a little scary. The technology that can turn your house or apartment into a “smart home” is just as cool and can be an excellent investment, helping to…
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How to buy a solar system to reduce bills

Installing solar power has become an increasingly popular upgrade as we dig ever deeper into our pockets to pay electricity bills. But trying to keep up with solar technology can feel like a full-time job.  Solar companies are regularly releasing more efficient panels. Solar tiles are starting to take hold in the luxury market and…
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New data indicates price revival on way

Confidence continues to return to the property market despite the continued pressure on mortgage costs, according to the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. It looked at the number of new loans that are being issued and found an uptick of 4.9% for March compared with the previous month. That represents a value…
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Six cleaning errors that make your home dirtier

There are few more essential steps in preparing your home for sale than ensuring it is sparkling clean. Nothing deters prospective buyers faster than walking into a home to find it dirty or untidy. When cleaning your home in preparation for a viewing or open house, it is essential to focus on the kitchen and…
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How the Federal Budget will impact the property market

Many investors and homeowners will have kept a keen eye on the recent Federal Budget to see if it will ease some of the challenges caused by 12 months of interest rate rises implemented to tame inflation. This snapshot looks at the Budget’s leading programs aimed at encouraging investors, helping first-time buyers and committing to…
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New ATO rules on work-from-home expenses

Since the Covid-19 pandemic reached our shores, one of the big points of focus for many buyers has been finding a property with space to work from home comfortably. Anyone who perched around the dining table, jostling for space as their children did their homework, knows the importance of work-from-home space. The Australian Taxation Department…
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Your veggie patch can turn heads this winter

With the chilly weather fast approaching, it’s the perfect time to start planning winter crops in your back garden. And if you’ve never thought of popping a few veggie seeds into pots or creating a vegetable patch, this may be the ideal moment. The brisk conditions we’ve been experiencing are perfect for so-called cold-season crops,…
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Avoid these seven bad DIY habits

Discipline around maintenance is essential to keep your home in great condition as neglected properties can cost a lot of money to put right before a sale. A worse result is when a property fails to reach its value potential because it’s rundown. While many buyers may be home-hunting for a fixer-upper, more want a…
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Winter’s here, so it’s time to plan a swimming pool!

Owning a swimming pool is one of those dreams that go hand-in-hand with the Great Australian Dream of owning a home on a quarter-acre block. If you’re looking for a new home right now, should you only consider properties with a pool or be prepared to install one after you’ve moved in? Swimming pools do…
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