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While there are plenty of DIY jobs that are suitable for the novice there are a few jobs that you should never attempt both for the safety of your family and your home, not to mention the possibility of voiding your home insurance if you do. Let’s explore those renovation jobs you shouldn’t do. Waterproofing Bathroom leaks are the number one fault that the Builder sees when carrying out building inspections, generally these are caused by faulty installation of waterproofing. While it seems as though this job should […]

For buyers and sellers, there are few moments more disheartening than seeing a property pass in after auction. Both parties have plenty to lose in this situation with the next stop a round of often daunting negotiations. But take heart! Post-auction discussions often end in great satisfaction for everyone involved. “Passed in” explained A property passed in is a no-win scenario for buyers and sellers, with neither pleased about the price – the buyer because it’s too high and the seller because it’s not high enough, […]

It sounds like a dream deal: buy a second house without a big bank account. Is this really possible? Using the equity on your first property, it is. It’s a smart move that many people have benefited from but as a real estate agent, we suggest you consider all the pros and cons of equity purchase, sooner rather than later. What is equity? Equity is the difference between the current value of your house and all the cash you still owe your lender. Think of it […]

Young people are staying at the family house for longer than ever before and may be in their mid-20s before they decide to leave the nest. Hopefully, these more mature years will mean they’re working to pay rent to their parents, can do their own laundry and cook basic meals. But either way, the first-time move can be both exhilarating for its freedom and frightening for its responsibility, especially financially. Here’s how to make sure you’re well prepared for what lies ahead.  But first, finances Before […]

I’ve never had a huge budget for decorating my home, there are simply too many other things to spend my money on. But that has never stopped me from having well decorated spaces, nor should it stop you. Instead we should all be able to celebrate our own unique style without breaking the bank. So what is the secret to making low cost decorating work without looking like you shopped at the cheap store? Read on and find out! We’ve all seen those gorgeous homes that […]

You’ve just bought an investment property and excitement and anticipation is high. But with your short-term bank balance possibly in the red, you may be tempted to disregard landlord insurance. On the other hand, you’ve bought this property to enjoy greater financial security, so why risk not having extra cash protection? Is this landlord insurance worth it? As with any insurance, you may pay for landlord insurance without ever encountering the risks and dangers your policy covers. Then again, you might, and as real estate agents, […]

House hunters, I know it’s easy to become immersed in the stress and excitement of buying or selling your home. Yet whatever else you might miss on your to-do list, don’t forget to choose your conveyancer early on. As crucial as us, your real estate agents, to the property process, no conveyancer means no possibility of moving into your new home – or selling it either. So, where to start?  What is conveyancing? When you’re dealing with as much cash and fine print as pervades property […]

Investors may find it simpler to buy property close by, or at least in a location they know and trust. Yet it can be incredibly worthwhile to widen your pool of possibilities into another state or region.  New ideas Reaching out to an alternative area gives you a range of new options to consider, such as different laws better suited to your financial position. The area may also offer cheaper prices, better rental potential, more appealing locations or higher-calibre homes. You can target your preferred demographic […]

Spring is just around the corner and with the warmer, sunnier weather comes the busiest time of year for real estate. So, if you’re keen to sell, don’t waste any time preparing your property for new owners – while remembering COVID-19 could add to possible issues. But first, fundamentals…. Research your local region and talk to real estate agents in your area for advice on how the property market is performing, especially regarding COVID-19. Read up on industry experts’ recommendations and opinions. Don’t forget COVID-19 is […]

Apartments can make ideal homes but the differences between them and a detached house may surprise, especially if you’ve always lived in a standard home. So, which property will satisfy you and your lifestyle? Yes to less? With less space than a house and a lower purchase price, apartments suit time-poor couples and singles on a budget. Reduced room ensures precious weekend time is not spent on household cleaning and utility costs are lower. Commutes are minimised, with these small places often having easy connections to […]

Our busy lifestyles don’t leave much time to enjoy relaxing in the great outdoors. But this doesn’t mean your next real estate purchase shouldn’t have an alfresco area, even if you’re not a top-notch green thumb. Your bank account, your mind and body, and your friends and family, will all thank you for the space. Darkt o light For starters, a deck, balcony and patio will considerably expand your living space while adding a surprisingly large amount of natural light to dark rooms. If you love […]

Yet again, Victorians are struggling with COVID-19 lock downs from home schooling their children to night curfews and panic grocery buying, leaving the rest of us wondering if we’ll be next. But even before this sad second wave, we as real estate agents were being swamped by concerns from people of all ages and backgrounds. The result: we’re quickly learning to be counsellors as well as agents. If you’re one of the many people striving to earn a living in a COVID-19 world, the stressors can […]