People buying newly constructed property in NSW valued up to $600k will get a 50% stamp duty cut.

The changes come into force from July 1, 2009 and will be reviewed December 31st.

I'm not sure about other states, but I'll be looking into that in the morning.  For more information on the NSW cuts,, visit:
http://more.nsw.gov.au/articles/50-stamp-duty-cut-new-homes-kick-start-housing

Sure  Richard,

We had a private offer from one of our insto banks that we work with to pick up units in an undervalued property trust which they funded at 60% – the return was actually a little higher than that and took about 3.5 yrs.  It's come back a little since those guys gave us the testimonial, however we managed to pull most of our clients out.  It was the gearing that did it more so than the return.  One of the best investments we've ever recommended.  When I retire, I'm sure I'll look back and remember it as one of my top 10.

That being said, we picked up some undervalued (distressed) commerical for some clients who just walked out of the office about 10 mins ago… they will exit after probably two years with ~$520k from $200k down in Dec last year.

We've got private placement going on the moment that is 35% below the unit price (NTA recently revalued by the bank) – but these are for private consumption and can't be advertised (sorry, no enquiries please).

If only we could do that every time – we anticipated good returns, but sometimes they just blow you away! 

Ah ha,  yeah.

Amazing grasp of sales statistics you have there.

All I can say is take things at face value, do lots of research, and where possible get an independant point of view. 

I hear all too often that you should never get emotional about your money – listen to the emotions, they might be telling you something.  Listen, but don't be lead.

Another $0.02 worth from me  

Banks will typically go off the historic purchase price, so if you paid $350k for it, in their eyes that's what it is worth, and they will say you have no equity. 

However, your true equity in the property is it's current valuation minus what you owe on it.  For starters, you can get an agent in the area to give you an appraisal (usually free) which will give you some idea as to what it coudl be worth. 

If they give you a number considerably higher than you paid for it, you can get the bank to revalue the property and potentially increase your credit limit (subject to approval criteria). 

I’m over the whole “my car is flashier than yours” – so I ride a scooter now and pass all the Mercs & Porches on the way into the office while they’re sitting still in traffic