When buying a brand new Apartment it is very common to see a storage cage included. There are many benefits of a storage cage and here we explore them. A storage cage is often built with chain-wire or a welded mesh frame. A storage cage can vary in shape and size but they generally don’t exceed 6m3. They can be built from floor to ceiling or to a nominated height (such as an over car bonnet). Some can...
When buying off-the-plan not much can happen in the way of settlement until the vendor has received a certificate of occupancy. Your property must pass a series of inspections. These inspections may include a variety of reviews such as a fire safety check, an electrical or plumbing inspection and any other general building inspections What is required for a certificate of occupancy? In order to obtain...
Buying off-the-plan is a great way to enter or introduce yourself into the property market. However, can you sell off the plan before settlement? As buyer's advocates we source many properties for buyers and help them settle in the best means possible. However, during the construction phase, some buyer's personal circumstances change. These are often unavoidable and can cause their finances to...
Co-ownership is a beneficial and affordable way for self-managed super funds (SMSFs) to acquire real estate. Superannuation law allows super fund members to co-invest within their super fund. The new Tenant in Common Exchange (ticX) provides an uncomplicated trading platform for co-owners. Until the development of ticX there was no trading platform for the sale and acquisition of tenants-in-common...
Are you ready to build a new property? Is it for investment or to occupy? Regardless of the purpose, how do you choose the right builder is critical to gaining longevity, low maintenance and a well-presented property. How to choose the right builder Your motive may differ from others. You may want to miminise some costs for an investment property or you may want superior workmanship to raise your family....
Once you have nominated your house design, floor plans, builder and received your building permit, it’s time to watch your home start building. This is a very exciting time, but it can be a nervous one if you are not aware of the build process. In this article we take the opportunity to highlight the different construction stages to minimise your nerves and help you enjoy this special...
The Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) is an Australian government department. They assesses applications from foreigners who would like to buy a property in Australia. FIRB makes recommendations to the Treasurer on those subject to the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act 1975 and Australia's foreign investment policy. Who needs an approval from FIRB? Foreign investors A foreign investor is...
When buying a place to live we are spoiled with choice. Do you buy a cheaper old home that needs fixing or do you pay top dollar for a newly renovated home? Building a brand new home is a particularly popular choice. This is very evident with first home buyers and owner occupiers looking to live in a home for a long period of time. Here is a list of reasons to build your own home: Longevity -...
The housing market in Victoria has experienced some price reductions in the last 12-18 months, but here are several good reasons why it is about to turn around and why now might be the best time to buy property. Reasons why it's time to buy property: Reserve Bank of Australia announced a 0.25 per cent rate cut in June 2019. With a further hint of seeing another rate cut as early as next month....
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)....