There is a lot of misleading information out there about things economic and it seems even more so when you combine property and taxation. Negative gearing is a case in point. Australia is a one-off? For example, it has been stated that Australia is the only country that allows for negative gearing deductions. But this…
Are you wondering what your serviceability is and how banks calculate it? Well…if you’ve been looking for a loan for your home or investment property, I’m sure you’d have come across the term “serviceability.” When taking out a loan, the amount your bank will lend you will depend on a few things. Along with your…
In recent weeks I have noticed something interesting when speaking with potential clients. More specifically those who are existing homeowners and perhaps have one or two investment properties. Their homes have performed strongly on most occasions, but in many cases, their investment properties have struggled and in some cases, fallen behind. It got me thinking,…
With all the talk about homes being unaffordable and with capital city property markets achieving record price growth, first-home buyers and indeed, first-time investors must save up a hefty deposit to get a foot on the property ladder. Many are finding it difficult – because there are a lot of sacrifices involved. Essentially, they must…
Over the past few years, the Australian property market has seen a pronounced disparity in price growth between houses and units. Historically, houses have always commanded higher prices and demonstrated superior value growth compared to units. Data from the last four years confirms this trend overwhelmingly. However, recent developments indicate that this gap may be…
Believe it or not, Melbourne has one of the highest populations of millionaires in the world. But it has also been named one of the most unaffordable cities in the world to buy a home. And a recent report from the Australian Taxation Office revealed that two of the richest suburbs in Australia are in…
I received a question from a reader asking what would make a superior investment. An apartment in a blue-chip location, or a house for the same price albeit not in a blue-chip suburb. Will houses always deliver better returns? In general, houses often prove to be superior investments, mainly due to their higher land value…
Did you know that you have many options when it comes to deciding the entity that should own your new property? Most property buyers, even seasoned investors, default to simply buying the property in their own name, but this is not always the best and most financially savvy choice. The legally recognised owner of a…
The latest release from US-based consultancy Demographia has captured global attention yet again with its 20th annual International Housing Affordability Report. This study delves into the affordability of housing across 94 markets in eight countries, including Australia’s five largest cities. In his article in The Conversation, Simon Kuestenmacher discussed the report’s findings. He said that…
When you’re buying property in this market you need to move fast. Days on the market are short at the moment (although they are starting to stretch). Property prices are still rising, although the pace is slowing, and if you’re sifting through the available properties when you find “The One” you need to be ready…
