News and Blog

News and Blog

PROPERTY - CHECKLIST FOR BUYING A PROPERTY

Aug 29th, 2018 • Industry NewsHome Loans

PROPERTY - CHECKLIST FOR BUYING A PROPERTY

What you need to Consider when Buying your Second Property

Aug 1st, 2018 • Investments

Owning two properties is a great financial ambition and with Australian house prices on the rise, doing so has great potential to improve your financial situation in the long term. But please don’t be fooled - just because you have done it once before doesn’t mean it will be easy! Buying a second property also requires hard work, discipline and effort. Here are some financial pointers to help with the process of buying your second property.

Should I Buy An Investment Property Now?

Feb 12th, 2018 • Investments

Last year saw some major curveballs thrown to property investors, which may have left you wondering whether a property investment strategy is the best way forward. These changes included the tightening of controls on banks for investment lending by APRA, particularly for interest-only loans, changes to negative gearing laws, and there was a slowing capital growth trend in some parts of our property market throughout the year.

But despite these uncertainties, if you are in a good financial position, right now could be a good time to invest in property. Here’s why.

National rents are on the rise

Deciding if an investment property is a viable investment often depends on the rental market for the property. For many investors, this is more important than how quickly the property makes capital gains. The good news is that rental rates are on the rise, according to the latest CoreLogic Rental Report. It found that over the December quarter, all capital cities except Canberra experienced a higher annual increase in rents over the past year, compared to the same period for 2016. The same was true for regional markets. If the rent covers the expenses and generates cash-flow, you should be in a good position to hold on to the property until its capital growth value meets your target for selling.

There is less competition amongst investors

In the past, foreign investors gave a lot of competition to local investors which has tended to drive up prices. Sales in new developments are now capped at 50% to foreign investors – and investors are only permitted to purchase new build properties if they are a permanent resident of Australia. This could potentially leave the market open to opportunity – particularly to those prepared to invest in established homes. What’s more, further penalties may apply to foreign buyers if they leave their investment properties vacant.

Savvy investors could come out well ahead

If home values in the market you are considering are slowing, you may have more capacity to negotiate the price with the seller and perhaps snap up some bargains. According to CoreLogic, previous downturns have seen the annual number of sales fall by around 20-25% from peak to trough, and with fewer buyers in the market, sellers may be more willing to drop their price.

Some markets are booming

Just because dwelling values may have declined a little in some markets, it doesn’t necessarily mean this will happen in all of Australia’s property markets. Some locations are still making excellent capital gains – the key is to do your research and find the right property in the right location. Take Tasmania for example – Hobart experienced double-digit value rises last year, ending at +11.5%!

Keep in mind that lenders are very specific when valuing a property. They make an assessment right down to the suburb, street and house. You should do the same. Consider the capital growth potential and the rental market.

A fall in prices won’t spell disaster if you get your finances right

Whilst analysts are expecting a general slowdown in national housing market conditions in 2018, the beauty of property investing is that you can usually weather the storm (if there even turns out to be one). Experienced investors know the property market will always fluctuate – so being in control of your finances so you can control when you sell is key. A good loan strategy is just as important as your buying strategy, so talk to us about your finances to ensure you’re in a secure position before you make your next move.

We can help!

In a softening market, a savvy property investor will take a longer-term approach. It’s important to be aware that if you are taking a short-term approach to property investing, falls in home values are more likely to affect you. If you’re planning to renovate and sell or flip properties quickly, you should be careful about the costs involved. If the value of the property should fall, you could potentially make a loss, so talk with us about these costs before you get started.

As your mortgage broker, we’ll help you crunch the numbers and make informed decisions, then line you up with an investment loan that suits your individual needs. Property investment is still a reliable way to grow wealth - interest rates remain near historical lows and if needed, you can still access competitive interest-only loans with our help, so please get in touch today!

This article provides general information only and has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. We recommend that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances and your full financial situation will need to be reviewed prior to acceptance of any offer or product. It does not constitute legal, tax or financial advice and you should always seek professional advice in relation to your individual circumstances. All loans are subject to lenders terms and conditions – fees, charges and eligibility criteria apply.

Source:
https://www.corelogic.com.au/resources/


Could a Deposit Bond Help You?

Feb 5th, 2018 • Industry NewsHome Loans

Could a Deposit Bond Help You?

3 ways to start growing your nest-egg using real estate.

Sep 11th, 2017 • Industry News

Besides providing a cosy nest of your very own, buying a property can potentially open up a world of wealth building opportunities – for your long term benefit! Whether you’re buying your own home or an investment property, home ownership could be a good move to help you get ahead financially. So get ready to start feathering your nest! Here’s a few reasons why real estate can be used as a powerful wealth generator.

Investing in Commercial Premises through an SMSF

Aug 18th, 2017 • Industry NewsInvestments

Investing in Commercial Premises through an SMSF

5 rules for your business plan

Jul 19th, 2017 • Industry NewsBusiness Loans

5 rules for your business plan

Property can be a challenge

Jul 18th, 2017 • Industry News

Property can be a challenge

What to look for at an open house

Jun 15th, 2017

What to look for at an open house

3 Auction Strategies That Really Work

Feb 14th, 2017

The experience can be exhilarating and exciting, but it can also be frustrating and disappointing if you miss out on your dream property after months of looking for the right one. That’s why it’s a great idea to organise your finance through trusted mortgage and finance brokers like us, prior to the auction. And if you’re still on your auction L-Plates, fret not. Here are 3 tried-and-true auction strategies that really work.