Tag: country_au

Young women finding it harder to break into property market

The gender pay gap continues to constrain female ownership of property, according to a new report released by the leading real estate researcher, CoreLogic. Challenges to gender equity in property ownership were most significant among the Gen Z cohort, according to CoreLogic.  While more than half of Gen Z males owned a dwelling (51.6%), only…
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If rates start to fall, what’s the best mortgage deal for you?

Selecting the right mortgage when you’re a first-time buyer can be challenging. You’re confronted with so many choices by the big banks and other lenders. Speculation is building that mortgage rates will begin to fall within the next 12 weeks. After 18 months of increases, you may feel that this means now is the right…
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Market momentum shows no sign of easing

Property values across Australia continue to climb as more buyers enter the market in anticipation of possible falls in interest rates later this year. Average prices edged 0.6% higher in February, according to the Home Value Index gathered by the leading real estate research organisation, CoreLogic. It was the most substantial monthly gain since last…
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Budget design updates for every home

With so many stores and websites offering budget-buy home décor offerings, it’s easy and cheap to give your space a lovely uplift. By thinking in simple and basic terms, a mini-renovation can have surprisingly dramatic results. New tapware Changing tapware is not necessarily an easy job but if it is already damaged or old, a…
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Ins and outs of body corps

The difference between strata titles and body corp, including levies or fees, can be confusing. But for property owners, it’s crucial to understand the concepts. What is a strata title? A strata-titled area is a complex or building comprising townhouses, units or apartments. However, detached houses in an estate can also be strata titled. When…
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Making the most of your garage

While most garages are used for cars, storage and tools, there’s no need to keep these items crammed together in a messy and dirty array. Better yet, garages can be completely transformed into a home office, gym, hobby room, teenage retreat or guest room. Homeowners happy to stick with a thorough reorganisation of their garage…
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Lessons for achieving a green thumb

Gardening grows people’s outdoor imagination, creativity and joy as few other hobbies can. Better yet, both homeowners and renters who have never tried gardening before can succeed at this pastime with experience not always required for success. Green Thumb Lesson #1 Don’t be crushed by failures as even the wisest gardeners have them. Just like…
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Dealing with noisy neighbours

A dream home can quickly become a nightmare if you have to cope with noisy, insensitive neighbours. Whether it’s late-night parties or barking dogs, there is literally no getting away from this issue. These tips may help you find a way to resolve your differences. Talk to difficult neighbours first Although it may be awkward…
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Keeping up with smoke alarm legislation

Smoke alarms have been mandatory in Australian residential homes since around 1995,  and there is good reason for this. These critical early warning detectors can help residents and their pets stay safe from fire  24/7. Yet while smoke alarms are one of the most important inclusions in a home, they’re easily forgotten or ignored when…
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How to design your backyard studio

Are you thinking of building a small granny flat or stand-alone studio in your backyard? Part of the fun is coming up with some great interior design looks once the construction is completed. The trick is to consider its purpose first, followed by budget, size and accessibility. And you don’t have to spend big to…
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