Rental yield is a measurement of potential future rental income on an investment, and is generally calculated as a percentage based on the investment’s cost or market value. Rental yield can be used to compare properties and ascertain which option is better.

In Australia, we’re seeing a rise in rental yields, and while a good indicator on a sound investment, an investor shouldn’t rely solely on … Read more »

In the wake of the Chinese stock market falling, American interest rates rising, and the Australian dollar falling, some commentators have predicted weak property performance for 2016. Commentary about facing a recession or similar economic circumstances to the global financial crisis are running hot.

However, as Ross Gittins, Economics Editor at the Sydney Morning Herald, has suggested this ‘doom and gloom’ is in fact overstated. While … Read more »

As a property investor, it is important to become familiar with the tax benefits available to you. When a property is being used for investment purposes, the Australian Tax Office allows investors to claim the decline in value of the building by way of a tax deduction. The total amount that can be deducted is calculated on an individual basis.

The most efficient way to claim … Read more »

72 per cent of investors only own one property in Australia. This represents a lost opportunity considering the best way to unlock the financial benefits of investing in property is to own multiple assets. The key to building a strong portfolio is tapping into your equity, which can be converted into cash for deposits for future investments. But starting this process can be overwhelming, often discouraging investors to … Read more »

Diversification is a common strategy used by property investors looking to grow their portfolio. The strategy involves investing in properties that differ in price, location, and style – ultimately minimising risk whilst maximising growth opportunities. A diverse portfolio will help balance external factors – both positive and negative – that the market may endure over a long period of time. By having assets spread across a number of … Read more »

Gentrification was a term coined in the 1950s to describe organic population shifts witnessed in London’s inner neighbourhoods. It involves a process whereby higher income investors displace lower income residents of a neighbourhood or suburb, ultimately changing the character and physical appearance of the area.

It’s important not to confuse gentrification with urban renewal; a process of clearing and rebuilding or renovating properties in urban slums. … Read more »

Being a first home buyer is no easy task. The sea of processes and procedures can be overwhelming and stressful. For people wishing to enter the property market, a common question is “should I buy an investment property, or my first home?”. The answer depends on the purchaser’s long-term financial goals. But is there a way to do both?

Four things to consider when seeking out your first … Read more »

When investing in property there are various different loan types that you can come across including fixed term loans, variable-rate loans as well as being able to use an offset account. An offset account has the potential to save you thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars during your mortgage lifetime. So what exactly is it and how can you use it? Alex Goldhagen from iBuyNew explains.

What is … Read more »

The Australian Government has now introduced a new Visa stream called the Premium Investor Visa (PIV), which allows foreign entrepreneurs and innovators to gain access to a permanent residency in Australia for a minimum $15 million investment. Applicants of the PIV can apply by invitation only from the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. The Visa represents a new opportunity for those with proven success to secure a permanent residency … Read more »

Being a landlord involves more than collecting rent and managing repairs. Over the years, the balance between tenant and landlord rights has been a constant pendulum swing; with both parties believing their rights could be improved.

As a landlord it’s imperative to understand both landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities. Knowing the process and protocol in your state will see you navigate your way around legislation correctly, ultimately staying away from … Read more »