I've been there, it took me 3 years to convince my hubby to invest.  (the property I was interested in doubled in that time).  If he had of gone along with me we would be $1,000,000 better off today.  He knows that now and trusts my decisions.  I would book him into property education courses with yourself, make him attend home opens with you, visit a wealth education adviser and visit an acccountant to discuss your plans.  Also, make a note of what properties you're interested in, as they go up in value show him the results you can achieve.  He might be stuck in the attitude of, work your a off and be poor."  (like my hubby)  Now I find the deals, show it to my husband, and he says "yes".  At times he has put the brakes on and I'm grateful for that also.  If you can't convince him at this boom, you may learn heaps and benefit from the next one.  All the best, m

Call the ATO and ask them.  As far as I know you can ammend for 5 years. You cannot deduct stamp duty.  I've never had mortgage ins. so no idea.

When you change from PPOR to IP vice-versa you need to have a valuation done so you can correctly apportion CGT when/if you ever sell property. 

i'm not sure that Geraldton is the best place to purchse right now.   I think Perth units within 5k's of city would perform better.  Geraldton sounded good to me till i visited and realised how windy it was.  And you really need  to be careful which suburb you invest in.  I wouldn't go for the cheapest suburb, I would only invest in centre if I could get a good buy.

Hi sauvemechanic, I haven't personally had any dealings with property managers (I self manage).  Robin Spinley from Genesis Asset Management was recommended to me though so they may be worth a try?  She does Bassendean area so I'm sure she'd do Mt Lawley also.
http://www.genesisassetmanagement.com/minigen/default.asp?contentID=2

I do think it is worth considering.  I'm living in Perth but homesick for family /friends in Bris.  When I visited a while back I felt like I was visiting the desert.  I was considering if I were to move back I would probably be more likely to move to Northern NSW or Maleny.  I do like my nature/greenery/gardens.  x

Thanks guys, you're so knowledgeable!  P.S.  I'm not into wrapping though

Terry, is that a new thing in past few years?  How do you get a licence?

Thanks Jason.

Excellent post fliptolid.  My thoughts also.  As a property owner YOU need to take control.  Don't leave it up to a PM to choose tradesman, do your own research.   If you come across shonky workmanship or outragous fees for services deal with it on an individual basis and get over it.   Most tradies are good, and when you're happy with their services keep them as part of your team.