Just liquidated my own Melbourne property since I stand to make x3.5 the cashflow, x20-30 the diversity and hedging in Japan. (With 5% of the portfolio as holiday/short-term lets, so possibly higher).

As for capital growth, in melb. it’s been growing at app. 2.5% p/a for the last 3 years (which is superb, all things considered, but its in a…[Read more]

I would first familiarize myself with the process regardless of realtors – read a bit about the property purchase and rental process in Texas, there must be a few governmental and organizational (meaning non-profit) websites out there – then you'll be able to confirm your knowledge with the realtors to "test" them, and also not appear out of your…[Read more]

Finally, thank you, terry, you're a gem )

Any new info there? Also very interested in finding out.

I think the look, feel and building specs of these projects can also say a lot about whether the developer sees a future for the place, or if they're in it for a quick, short buck. Something that looks like a glorified, 2-story caravan park is very rarely there with any long term intent. Something that's clearly cost a few extra dollars to build…[Read more]

Quote:
There are a lot of small companies operating in Atlanta and they can be slow to move and communicate.

I'd venture that's not always the case, I actually found smaller, savvier companies are often a lot quicker and more responsive on their feet than the bigger ones – there's a lot of overhead and a lack of personal attention involved in…[Read more]

That fund come with a fixed rate of return, Jay?

Respondent wrote:
My response to you is know what you are speaking of when you make comments. 

instead of butting heads, wouldn't you be better off spending the time and resources addressing the complaints of your (seemingly large number of) disappointed clients? Or, just a thought, sign your comments with a name and means of contact, so you…[Read more]

I think Richard may be right there…here's another link discussing the issue – http://thedunnthing.com/tag/s67a/

General initial advice claims no issue, as long as everybody's aware that properties in a SMSF have to be liquidated for any splits to other funds to be made in future.

meaning, if you split up, careful planning and execution is required.

otherwise, no particular issues noted.

Nice to see you guys talking, at least. Any resolution, Col?

No argument regarding Spain, definitely never advocated buying or even researching seriously on a 3-week holiday either. All I'm saying is that moderation in views and a balanced perspective is required. Australia is safe (legislation and social profile are at least), and probably reasonably well placed appreciation and asset protection wise as…[Read more]

Also, can't help but wonder, how long is that particular site there destined to last? Oil fields are no different than mines, of which we are now beginning to experience the downside of here in AUS. Sure, great income for 4-5 years, all but guaranteed – but with a very dubious life expectancy following that.

Daunting at first and requiring extensive research or connections, yes, but a gamble? I beg to differ- or at least not more of a gamble than your own back yard. There are many countries where the correct infrastructure setup will enable anyone to invest much more safely than in their countries of origin.

In Australia's case for instance, almost…[Read more]

My meeting's next week, will keep you posted.

I know you meant this as a joke, but Lybia is actually very high on alot of radars at the moment. So are Spain and Italy. I know, they don't come with guarantees for regulated environments like Japan or Australia, they're scary foreigners, and they aren't deemed as safe as a term deposit in a big league bank or a bar of gold or platinum in the…[Read more]

gazmatazz wrote:
. My two properties are both in Mackay

good buy, I think mackay, like Gladstone, will prove to be a bit of a gold mine in coming years (barring a major crash). When did you get in there, and did you manage to get them positively geared (if you don't mind my asking)?

jayhinrichs wrote:
 We sure got spoiled EH ( thats Canadian for ain't that so)

in Australia too lol…or maybe just Queensland, not sure…

Have a friend who's looking at Italy, Spain and France atm (shut up, freckle). Would be interesting to hear some feedback from someone who's purchased in any of those countries. From first glance, it seems France is the most regulated but also most heavily taxed and most complicated financially, Italy has a lot of red tape but generally the…[Read more]

They've been advertising in biggerpockets.com too, until mid-2010, then seemed to have disappeared. Sorry to hear, best of luck with the pursuit.