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 »

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 »

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 »

Predictions that the Australian property market will burst continue to run rampant as the country faces the greatest credit-fuelled real estate market it’s ever seen. The market has seen a drop off in investor confidence and the repercussions of this are being felt from buyers to sellers with falling auction clearance rates and plateauing property prices in Sydney and Melbourne.

Here are our tips for property … Read more »

Australia’s lifestyle, environment and potential return are the top reasons why Chinese investors invest in property here. Chinese investment into Australian property has more than quadrupled in the past five years.

China has recently overtaken the United States as the largest foreign property investor in Australia, with $12.4 billion being spent on the Australian property market.

It’s a huge boost to the Australian economy, with Chinese buyers helping drive the real estate … Read more »

The Reserve Bank meeting in early December declared that the cash rate will remain at 2%. Most of the experts on the panel agreed that Australia’s improving economy will be the most likely reason to keep the cash rate as it is.

However, commentators are suggesting that 2016 will be much more difficult for both borrowers and lenders.

“It’s going to be tougher for households next year and it’s not just borrowers … Read more »