This is a very interesting discussion. Many feel it is based on opinion, while some feel it’s the same thing. However, there is a difference between repairs and improvements. Property investors this is a snapshot for you. This will help you know what’s tax deductible and what is not. What is a repair? Put quite simply, a repair replaces a part of something that’s already there. This has occurred...
Most would assume that the Reserve Bank of Australia's (RBA) role is to announce the official cash rates. This is most certainly public knowledge where they announce it on the first Tuesday of 11 months of the year. However you'd be surprised how much responsibility the RBA has on our economy. The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) is Australia's central bank and derives its functions and powers from...
Time to upsize during the tail end of property market correction The Real Estate Institute of Victoria’s latest data reveals that the median house price for Middle Melbourne is sitting at less than $900,000 for the first time in almost three years, creating upsizing opportunities for aspirational house hunters with the goal of buying in to some of Melbourne’s most sought-after postcodes. REIV...
The general cost of living has increased steadily over many decades. Over that time, the largest contributors to household spending has changed. So what are the the biggest living expenses? According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) the three biggest living expenses incurred within a household are: Housing – 20% Food – 17% Transport – 15% Does that surprise you? Or is...
According to the The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) :- The proportion of vacant properties in metro Melbourne was 2.2% The proportion of vacant properties in regional Victoria rose to 1.6%. The weekly median rent for houses in metropolitan Melbourne was $460 a week The weekly median rent for houses in regional Victoria also rose to $350 a week. Disclaimer -...
Many successful property investors monitor their portfolio annually. They take note of their income & growth returns and look at what equity is available to expand their existing portfolio. Many first time property investors become complacent to owning one as they have limited resources to professionals who can help them. In this market insight, we take the opportunity to explain what equity means...
APRA changes make borrowing easier. Post the federal election, the mood in the property market looks active and very promising. There are many good indicators that indicate we are entering a new property cycle. A move that’s going to make it easier for everyday Australians to qualify for a loan. One of those indicators is the recent announcement from Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA)....
Tax time is approaching for the year ending June 2019. Now is the right time to consult your accountant and ensure your financials are in order prior to lodging your tax return. We encourage property investors to act promptly. The Australian Tax Office (ATO) has said "they’re going to be looking much closer at your tax returns this year". The ATO conducted a random sample audit identifying 90% of...
We are the first to admit we were very lucky to experience a very long extending summer in Melbourne. That warmer weather is coming to an end and we now welcome the winter. It's not unknown knowledge that utilities expenses have crept up in price over the last 3 years. Here we offer you some energy saving tips to help reduce your bill this winter. Don't heat the entire home - If you have a spare...
When it comes to property buying, there are many types and forms of real estate available. One popular type of property is the house and land package. So what is a house and land package and why is it so popular? There are two types of house and land packages You buy your vacant land and later build your home with a construction loan. Buy the house completed on the developer’s land. The second...