I run a referral marketing and direct sales business, and I help people set up their own home-based businesses following the same model. Always happy to work with people who aren't afraid to put in some work to develop a substantial additional income. If you'd like to discuss this with me, send me a private message with your contact details and I'll give you a call.

Have a great day!
Leila

Kylie,
That's a brilliant post. I agree 100%.

Leila

Hi All,
A general note on Maribyrnong (not Edgewater). Be cautious when purchasing in close proximity to the Maribyrnong River as much of the adjoining area is flood prone – can usually tell these spots by low house prices and not much redevelopment. Can find out where the flood plain is by looking at the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay either at the Council offices or at http://www.dse.vic.gov.au/planningschemes If you aren't concerned about the flood plain being there, there are also limitations on redevelopment and you can find out more about this from Melbourne Water.

Edgewater is NOT flood prone. Much work was done by the developer to ensure this is the case.

Have a great day!
Leila

Another option would be to buy with a friend or family member …. obviously want to get the terms right though.

Hi Jenny,

Most govt depts I have dealt with have a written policy and/or process for handling of land sales. Ask the dept you are dealing with for a copy of this. In my experience they are happy to oblige. There may also be governing legislation that you should familiarise yourself with.

First thing you need to establish is why they own the site, and whether the need for ownership still exists. If this is the case, write a letter stating that if the land becomes surplus, you would have an interest in purchasing it, so they can keep this on file if things change.

If the land is surplus, definitely make your request to purchase in writing. It’s likely that you’ll need to make a case as to why it should be offered to you and not as an open market sale. Make sure you tailor your letter to address their policy guidelines – this would make it easier for them to make a case on your behalf.

Based on your description of the site, it sounds to me like they’d get their best return at a public auction and would be inclined (if not required by policy/legislation) to do this.

However, it may be that your request gets them looking at disposing of a piece of land that was way down their agenda (i.e. sell sooner), and at least you’ll get an opportunity to purchase at auction/private sale that you wouldn’t have had for a long time if the property remained under their radar.

In defence of govt departments, the reason land sales often take time is because there are strict auditing requirements to ensure that land owned by public authorities isn’t sold “under the counter” at “mates rates”, thereby ripping off the ratepayers/taxpayers whose money purchased the land in the first place. Personally, I appreciate this protection.

Good luck and I hope your plan falls into place!

Leila
[smiling]

Wow, what a discussion! And, of course I couldn’t resist joining in with such an articulate group [specool]

When I first read this thread, Simon had just posted his first response. I took his remarks to be a little tounge-in-cheek and highlighting a valid question about gender exclusiveness. I’ve always believed that no matter what field you’re in, it’s good to ask questions about why people make the decisions they do and to question assumptions. In the end I wholeheartedly believe it’s what will make you successful!

I think Simon should be respected for the point he raised – I think you’d agree given the reaction he’s received – that it took some courage and effort to continue with the discussion.

Ultimately, I think people like to network in environments where they’re comfortable and that’s what Bec is trying to arrange for herself and others. I can totally understand where she’s coming from, and would love to be involved in such a group. Of course, I’d enjoy being involved in a group which includes men, especially if they’re as enlightened as the male contributors on this thread!

Well, that’s my 2 cents, have a great day people!

Leila
[smiling]

Frank,

My house has really elaborate (large!!) ceiling roses that take up about half the ceiling, and wide decorative cornices. Any tips on the quickest and easiest way to paint these and get a good finish?

Thanks,

Leila
[biggrin]

I don’t know of any DVDs but Bunnings regularly runs DIY sessions on tiling. Would be worth giving this a try especially because its free!

Good luck,
Leila

Ptn,
Is is a water, sewerage or drainage easement? I assume there is a pipe in the ground? If there is a pipe in the ground, in some instances they can be relocated (at the developer’s cost). Definitely seek further advice on this from someone experienced in these matters, as suggested by others on this thread. Unless of course you’ve already done this …

Also, in instances where water authorities have unsuccessfully tried to negotiate easements with land owners, caveats are often placed on titles instead. Something to look out for in future …

Hope all turns out for the best!

Leila