I’ve just been informed that this technique of “Offers above $x” is in use in Queensland for rental properties and is to be banned by the Government. It can’t be long before its use in selling goes the same way.

In Melbourne, a rule of thumb return, net, is considered reliably to be 80% of your gross rental. The lost 20% covers outgoings and is about right over time in my experience.

Don’t forget Landlord Insurance, it’s your defence against “tenants from hell” and is worth every cent.

Three kinds of residential that banks hate: Motel style units, studios or bedsitters and company share apartments. Many lenders also have a “minimum floor area” filter before they’ll consider lending.

One way out, for exceptional deals only, is if you have other investments, gear them up to buy a motel unit or similar, for cash.

I hesitate to…[Read more]

When I first bought in ’73 the interest rate was about 7.5%. Within a couple of years it was over 12%. Prices did not go down at all. People don’t give up their home that easily, banks were extending loan periods instead of upping repayments and, because higher interest is usually accompanied by inflation, equity was increasing.

Demand is…[Read more]

Hastings has to be the goer in Melbourne. The Citilink puts Melbourne Airport only 60 minutes by car and population is increasing very quickly. Much municipal expenditure as well as commercial.

I too, am looking for similar. I have found that web-site listings are poor because many of the properties are not taken off when sold. My best source has been the local town newspaper if there is one. The supplements are timely and have better pics.

The best way of all is to nail down your area and go and see agents personally AND MAKE THEM…[Read more]