That is interesting because the latest house we bought has the underneath enclosed in asbestos ripple roofing, well painted on the outside but raw inside.

As soon as we can, we will remove it. Is there an easy way to tell if it has asbestos in it?

Wylie

We had some feral tenants evicted last year, but can’t remember the technicalities. Sorry I can’t help more, but if you ring first thing Monday, the RTA will set you straight and you can get the forms done right away.

The forms can be downloaded to your computer and you fill them in and print them out straight away, so if they are already in…[Read more]

If you have a lease document which states they should be paying two weeks in advance then they are in breach already. If so, issue the appropriate “remedy to breach” form which gives them seven days to remedy the breach. If they do not, issue the “notice to evict” form.

I have typed this information from memory. To make sure you do the correct…[Read more]

Asbestos roof usually has a large undulating wavy profile. I think it is called “Super 6” or something like that. It is a larger wavy profile than tin or similar.

Unpainted it is an ugly grey, and painted, it looks painted and usually not shiny like zincalume.

Wylie

I wouldn’t allow them until next week if they are behind now. I don’t recall without looking back but from memory, we had to give notice to remedy breach, then wait a certain number of days before issuing notice to vacate. You must be really careful you give the correct notice.

Ring the appropriate place (Residential Tenancies Association in…[Read more]

Our PPOR had an asbestor roof, in really good condition, well maintained and painted, although that is only the bit you can see.

We had it replaced for two reasons –

1. Having a real estate agent in the family, we know that many people are put off by an asbestos roof because they know that replacing the roof is an expense they will be up for…[Read more]

Don’t know which state you are in, but we had a situation similar last year when tenants just stopped paying rent until we had the water into the house tested. Reckoned he could see worms in the drains and in front of his eyes. Turned out he was on drugs but BCC tested the water for us for no cost. Most scary thing visiting that house with the BCC…[Read more]

Just to balance out the other side of the argument. We have only ever had one positive cashflow property, which we reluctantly sold to reduce debt and consolidate.

We have always bought negative cashflow because we stick close to Brisbane city in our local area which shows good growth. We are not saying that outer areas are not good, but we know…[Read more]

Why not buy something cheap that you can do up and make some money. Do it a few times (if it is something you enjoy and can do yourselves – even better) and make some profit while you are young and don’t have any children.

Once children come along (if that is what you plan) then you could look at settling somewhere more to your liking.

Wylie

Could I suggest that rather than talk to your bank, you talk to a loan broker. They may find you some deal which will cost you less in LMI and other costs.

I am in Brisbane and if you want our broker’s name, send me a private message, but there are several on this forum who obviously are very good as they are always being given a good wrap by…[Read more]

I know that in Coorparoo we have two blocks with two queenslanders with character housing and demolition control restrictions. Our town planner told me each house we put in the back needs 300 sq m. I suspect it depends on the mood the person you talk to is in and where the moon is in the sky as our street is in a similar area and the house across…[Read more]

If you live in the house for six months, claim the FHOG and then go to the UK for five years, my understanding from reading this forum if that you can live in it again when you return and up to that point, you would not incur any gains tax. I assume you will not be buying in the UK.

Once you are back and have established it as your home once…[Read more]

I wrote the initial post and certainly did not mention newbies. It was mentioned later in another post and I am certain it was meant tongue in cheek.

After all, we were all newbies once, and I wish I had had this forum to read 25 years ago. I still have questions although I don’t regard myself as a newbie as such. We can all learn, no matter how…[Read more]

I bought the CD from the Reno Kings website. I have entered some figures and found some errors, both ways. I haven’t yet contacted my bank as I have several loans more to run through the checker and I want to double check my figures before I start demanding some money back.

I also, don’t really know about the errors in my favour. Do I ‘fess up to…[Read more]

Sounds great, but I would be wary about why the price is so much lower than similar properties. Do you know the reason?

Wylie

Hi Frank.

I am curious about what sort of test you have every two years, if you don’t mind sharing.

We have renovated, painted or fiddled with about 30 houses in 30 years, our own and my parents, some more than once. I feel sick to my stomach when I let my mind dwell on the fact that we have pulled out asbestos without knowing it was dangerous,…[Read more]

What about brick edged coloured concrete. Looks good and is cheaper than many other types.

Wylie

We manager our IPs, all in the same suburb as ours. I am happy to help with any queries, but have never had to take over from an agent. Perhaps call the RTA and ask them whether Dr X is right.

RTA is very helpful and if they can’t help you, your solicitor should be able to.

Good luck

Wylie

We also watch this show and I have to say it in no way glamourises the process of renovating. Quite the opposite.

I think they are really clear about the costs. The fact that at the end the renovators make a profit (or not) before tax cannot be made any clearer because everyone’s tax position is different.

Sarah also does spell out at times that…[Read more]

Good grief!!

I often watch in amazement at Property Ladder and wonder about the homeowners taking on the plumbing and electrical work themselves. Plumbing can lead to a mess at worst but electrical could mean bye-bye. I suppose with the money they save, their family could buy a nice burial plot.

Wylie