There are many tips for buying a property, but there’s one essential element that no one can avoid – getting your finances in great shape before you start. Knowing what you can afford is a critical element of finding your first home or the next one that takes you higher up the property ladder. The…
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There’s never a wrong time to upgrade a deteriorating bathroom. A great-looking bathroom will add value and enjoyment to your home, but the job must be done properly or it will cause more problems than it solves. Bathrooms must be thoroughly sealed to prevent leaks that can undermine the surrounding timber structure and cause major…
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Buying your dream home can come with a list of costs that do not have to be a nightmare if you plan in advance and budget for them. These expenses can amount up to 10% of a property’s value. Sometimes, it can feel like someone always has a hand in your pocket. Some costs, such…
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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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