FAQs

Buying, selling or investing in real estate can appear complicated, so we've put together a series of frequently asked questions to answer some of your everyday queries.

Q. What's involved in buying a residential property?

A. Buying a new home is not only an exciting time but, probably one of the largest purchases you're likely to make, it can also be seen as one of your best long-term investments - so it's important that you get it right. This means doing your homework and making sure that the property you will eventually is buy is the right one for you in terms of price, location, value, size and lifestyle. There are two main ways to buy a home - by private treaty or by auction. As a buyer, the choice is not really yours, as it is the seller who decides the most appropriate method to use to sell their property.

Q. What's The First Home Owner Grant?

A. To offset the impact of the introduction of the goods and services tax (GST), the Commonwealth has requested that the States and Territories assist first homebuyers through the establishment of the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG). The First Home Owner Grant applies from 1 July 2000. Each State and Territory Revenue Office is responsible for administrating the grant it's respective jurisdiction. For more information visit: www.firsthome.gov.au

Q. What are my options for buying an investment property?

A. It is generally excepted that the average investor feels more confident with real estate as a place to secure their future, believing that over all it will outperform cash and fixed interest deposits, particularly for the medium to long term. Many Australians prefer to invest in residential property, as it's a tangible, "bricks and mortar" asset.

Q. What Are Property Tax Allowances?

A. Property tax allowances are a valuable aspect of any property investment due to their ability to enhance an investor's return and produce a better cash flow. However, a high level of expertise is required to ensure that investors obtain maximum allowable entitlements.

Property tax allowances form part of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997 (ITAA 1997) and provide an opportunity for owners of income producing property to reduce their assessable income. There are a number of property tax allowances available to property owners, investors, and developers, including allowances for building structure and depreciation on plant. Property tax allowances are often simply referred to as tax depreciation. For more information visit www.deppro.com

Q. What Are The Rules For Overseas Buyers?

A. The Australian Government's foreign investment policy has been developed to encourage investment in Australia and ensure that such investment is consistent with the needs of the Australian community. The Government recognises the important contribution offshore investment makes to the development of Australia's industry, resources and community. For more information visit: www.firb.gov.au

Q. How Do I Get My Home Ready For Sale?

A. First impressions do count when selling houses! It is critical that potential buyers get that "good first impression". Preparing your property for sale gives you a major advantage over your competition. A little attention to important details can make all the difference to a potential purchasers impression of your home.

Q. How Do I Determine The Value Of My Property?

A. If you've decided to sell your property you have some critical decisions to make, that include ascertaining the current market value of your home. For most people their residence is also their single largest asset. It is important you choose a Real Estate Agent that will attain the best possible price, in the shortest possible time, with the least inconveniences to you.

Before putting your home on the market you should review our Sellers Tips for advice on how to prepare your home for sale and achieve the best price possible. We will happily provide a Market Appraisal for you at no cost and without obligation.

With our experience you can be confident that your property will be advertised in the most appropriate fashion national publications as well as community and area newspapers can stir a lot of interest. But the "advertising mix" is only part of the strategy that you and your experienced sales team will decide on.

If you would like a full presentation of our marketing services, including a free comparative market analysis for your property (a report detailing the likely market valuation of your real estate property), please contact us