The latest conducted research by David Hensher and Corrinne Mulley of Sydney University confirmed that people commuting by public transport to the city prefer taking the train system. The three (3) main public used transportation systems are trains (railway), trams (light rails) and buses. Taxi and Urber transit are other highly used forms of transport, but we want to reflect on the public transport...
What is land tax? This is a question often asked by serious property investors who already have or in the process of accumulating an investment property portfolio. It is the taxpayer's obligation to advise if they are subject to land tax . This is based on self-assessment by submitting either a land tax registration form or a land tax variation form. Unfortunately failing to submit these forms or...
Buying an investment property is a wonderful achievement and an excellent asset you could own. It is likely among the most expensive assets you will ever own. For this reason, it is important to protect it. Landlord cover is one was to do this. It is very common for a landlord to rely on it generating a regular income stream through monthly rent. Therefore investors need to acknowledge the importance of...
We all live busy life styles, but its without doubt an exciting time to be living your life in Melbourne. We are very spoilt for choice, from good schools to great cafes. One common theme we experienced last year (2017) was the growing love for an open floor plans. Many years ago a kitchen was seen to be nothing more than a place to cook. Open floor plans have changed kitchens forever. Having a nice...
New properties have become quite environmentally responsible or eco-friendly. They also feel good when you walk into a new place. Buying a new property, regardless if it’s an Apartment, House, Unit or Townhouse, have many in-built features that will not only please you but have you take a step further to being a little more eco-friendly. Floor to ceiling windows – many new Apartments and...
Once you have purchased an investment property, there are a few important items to consider. One of those items is selecting a Property Manager. A property manager essentially manages your investment property. There service consists of sourcing a tenant, regularly inspect the property, manage maintenance issues and collect rent to name a few. Given the time needed to complete these tasks and the strict...
The benefits of an owners corporation. An Owners Corporation was previously known as Body Corporate. We prefer to look at Owners Corporation with a pragmatic approach. Strata fees are in place for a reason. They are shared costs between residents for mandatory fees. These fees would typically include building insurance, public liability insurance and any legislation-based payments. These fees are...
Many years ago, many buyers purchasing apartments and townhouses were acquiring them for investment purposes. However, it’s becoming a more preferred choice for many Melbournians to buy these types of residences to occupy rather than invest. Married couples wanting to stay close to the city are regularly looking for spacious Apartments and Townhouses, while many sole occupants prefer it. The...
With a rising population density and continued demand for residence within close radius of the CBD, a car space has become a highly sought after feature. Car spaces in Melbourne and Sydney have sold for an alarming price of well over $100,000. The question remains, is a car space worth the additional cost or is it better to pay less and rely on the public transport system. Whether it’s a space on...
Rent – The true core of real estate. Investing in real estate should be a buy/hold approach. The traditional way that provides moderate returns while having the opportunity to use the rent to escalate the loan repayments. TV reality shows often falsely indicate that successful real estate is a quick turnover from buying a home, renovating it, and reselling at a much higher price, but this is far...