Just thought I would throw this one out there. Where I currently live, my employer pays 75% of my rent as an incentive which saves me $7800 a year. I have researched the town and to me everything stacks up to make investing in a property here well worthwhile. The problem is, if I buy a house within 75 km of the township for investment or ownership I then lose my rental assistance. House prices range between $80 000 -$300 000 and average rent is $200/week.
Would anyone see it as worthwhile foregoing their rental assistance rental assistance to invest? I can invest in other areas but I am a fair way from anywhere for that to be an easy option.
Ian, can you invest in another entity – say a family trust? I don’t know if I would be too keen to forgo that sort of a benefit – especially as the CG is not as rampant as it has been, and you would have to find that and more money to pay for all the costs etc.
I’m in the same situation here in Sydney. I am on subsidised rent until August 04, and believe me you need it here. Also part of my deal is that I will be reimbursed stamp duty, legals on purchase so I would be mad not to purchase. I have another 3 years before this option expires. I posted the same question a month or so ago regarding buying or renting. What I intend to do is selectively buy some more IP’s, some LO’s and commercial property. When my subsidised rent runs out in August I will pay the nominal rent. Considering the yield here that investors get it’s laughable buying at this time, I believe the market will soften/fall, then I will purchase using the cash positive funds from the IP’s to service the home I wish to retire in here in Sydney.
Actually spider, you have just reminded me that if I do purchase property here, my employer subsidises the cost such as stamp duty etc.like yourself. Will have to look into it.