Got another report turned around by Mike in less than 12 hours – thanks so much!

Hi all,I went with BMT for my tax depreciation in the end (based on reco's here and hearing about them in The Age). I got two quotes for two properties: an existing apartment block was quoted at $400 + gst and a house they had not visited before was quoted at $600 + gst. The apartment block was cheaper because they had previously visited…[Read more]

Thanks for the recommendations guys – looks like I have a few options going forward once I get the laundry reno'ed into a bathroom.Crash – any update from your guys? How did they go?

Hi Luke, thanks for that info. Do you remember how much they charged?

Thanks Crash – I'd be really interested in hearing about your experiences.

I found this for VIC, which seesm to have everything I need. http://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/CA256EB5000644CE/page/Renting?OpenDocument&1=910-Renting~&2=~&3=~Thanks for the help – I think it was just a matter of knowing the right terminology to Google!

Thanks for the replies all. It doesn't sound like something I will need (everything has been fairly straightforward, and there are no other interested parties), so I think I'll keep my $250 and put it towards a few slabs of beer instead

Probably because if I lodged the caveat myself I believe it's < $100, but if they do it for me it's $250? I'm a little skeptical – hence the question!

Also looking for a surveyor in the Melbourne region (who can service the northern suburbs i.e. Pascoe Vale) who can draw up a depreciation report. Anyone know of anyone, and general costs?

ChristinaM wrote:
Can anyone recommend companies to do building, pest and asbestos inspections, who can do a thorough job?We're in Melbourne (inner north). The property we're looking at is 60-70 years old and needs a good look at…Thanks.

I used Aussiespect to do my property inspection (http://www.aussiespect.com.au/) and I was really happy…[Read more]

Thanks for the rough guide on costs Skipper. I'd definitely have to get someone in because I have ZERO skill or tools for the job. It will be a good indication, as I'd like to revamp the main bathroom at some point when funds allow too.

Katidee, hopefully your husband will still be available end July! I'll msg you closer to the date when I actually have access to the property for a quote. Cheers.

Haha, and yet no one is posting anything yet! I guess I'll start.I recently purchase a property in Melbourne and needed a quick Buliding + Pest inspection done. Wasn't sure who to go to, but reading up on other forums and the like, decided to go with Aussie Spect (http://www.aussiespect.com.au/)They managed to look over the property within 2 days…[Read more]

Thanks for the speedy report Mike! I only emailed you this morning and got it within 2 hours. Very helpful and informative. Many thanks

Thanks for the explanations guys! Will have to go down to the Commonwealth Bank tomorrow about switching over ASAP

I'm in a similar situation to you Francesco – I purchased a city apartment, but am currently renting with friends. My apartment is currently renting out for more money than the mortgage repayments (yay!)I can't see myself moving back into this property, but I also can't see myself selling it (as it's such a nice little cash earner!). But maybe…[Read more]

I purchased a 2 bedroom city apartment  in 2008. It was small, but came with a car park. I lived there for a year, then moved elsewhere and am now renting it out.I found that when it was advertised I got a lot of international student applications. These students are willing to pay top dollar – e.g. the rent they pay covers my mortgage repayments…[Read more]

I'm looking around the same price bracket you are Rachie, but more North/West. Atm my aim is Preston, but I think a 3 bedroom there is a little out of my reach Is there any particular reason you've chosen Ringwood + Mont Albert? Potential gains, or just prefer the area?

Work out on your current income how much your home loan would be and how much you would have to repay on the mortgage each month. Almost every single bank with a home loan with have a calculator that tells you this rough amount. Then start putting that money aside into a separate savings account and DO NOT TOUCH IT! Set up an automated bank…[Read more]

Thanks for the feedback guys. To answer the questions:- I don't want to rent forever. Ideally I'd like to settle down into a property I love (I don't love my apartment!) and do the whole raising family thing.- I just turned 26. I don't currently do any additional super contributions- I'm pretty secure in my employment, but have had thoughts of…[Read more]