We have a great contact here in Sydney who is one of the leaders in setting up SMSF's.I know this post is old, but there has been a lot of changes in attitudes by Banks towards these and you can set up an SMSF and buy an investment property quite easily now.

Hey PeteWhat state are you in?We don't do much in Melbourne ourselves as we don't feel the numbers are there.When looking for an investment you need to consider 3 main factors. InfrastructureGovernment SpendingPopulation GrowthGrowth on your property will be totally relevant to how much of those 3 factors exist.If you have a little Infrastructure,…[Read more]

It would probably be best to put all your money in on your property purchase and then once you have the property loan approved, then apply for the car loan.Car loan companies like that people have property as extra security, Banks don't really like any extra debt that isn't theirs.It will come down to your servicability so you will need to check…[Read more]

From the sounds of it, you are not a developer, but are looking to do some sort of developing.Word of advice, no matter how many numbers we give you to help you figure out your costs, your costs will blow out. I've been in the Real Estate game for almost 20 years, and I would get involved with developing for quids.Just be VERY careful and it would…[Read more]

Personally I would not be looking at Perth. Not to say that it isn't a great place. There has been many great stories of growth, but it is a VERY long way from the rest of Australia. This does tend to mean price fluctuations, when they happen, can be extreme.A  forgotten city that would be better to consider would be Adelaide. VERY good value for…[Read more]

There is a lot of info out there, just remember, most people who write these books might have done well, but their journey was something that worked at that time, but doesn't mean it will work as well in this environment. The world is a VERY different place since the GFC and the rubber really hits the road now when it comes to having a solid approach.

Fixing your rate gives you a fixed cost, and in business (which is what you are in, the business of Investment properties) this is a good thing. You can budget better and weather any interest rate change.The down side is your locked in, so if you need to sell or refinance for some reason, it can be costly to get out.

I have had some "dealings" with TIC. Basically if you're happy to get advice from mums and dads rather than an expert then that's up to you.They are known through the industry as the Investors Cult, as most people who are involved with them can get somewhat brainwashed and their one size fits all policy really isn't the right way to go. The fact…[Read more]

Fixed rates are normally based on different markets than variable rates and this sometimes means than aren't really effected by any reserve bank changes (not that seem in control of rates anymore anyway)

Terryw is right, the lenders see it more like a commercial transaction and they will restrict the LVR (loan to value ratio) as they consider it higher risk, and rightly so, as they normally are.

Still plenty happening in Australia, just need to know where to look.2012 I believe could be a great year for property investors as a lot of the locations we are focusing on are only just starting to kick off on their projects this year. That coupled with the $10K QLD government grant being extended to April 31st and the likely hood of interest…[Read more]

You need to ask yourself what is your end game? What are your trying to achieve by buying an investment property?These type of rent "guarantees" are for people who are scared and want something positive to hold on to, but JacM is right, capital growth will be awful and you will look back in a few years and be wondering what you were thinking.

Nicki73 wrote:
Does anyone have any info on the Blacks Beach Cove development whether its got good rental potential?  I'm still unsure on whether to invest in Gladstone or Mackay, we are buying as an investment property to rent out.Also been looking at Calliope??

Hi Nicki73Plenty of info on Blacks Beach and also Calliope, pm me and I can help y…

Hi AnonI'm a big believer, especially if your single, in renting where you want to live and buy where you can make money.Structuring your investment purchase to be as cash flow neutral as you can is a great way to still maintain your quality of life, yet still be in the market and making money.Another thing to be careful of is not buying something…[Read more]