Longstanding Gold Coast and Canberra developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> is continuing to roll on with its Glitter Strip apartment pipeline, seeking to return to Mermaid Beach with a new 68-apartment development.

Morris, founded by Barry Morris in 1978 and one of the Gold Coast’s most prolific apartment developers over the past two decades, has filed plans for a 12-storey mixed-use building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-seabeach-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">34-36 Seabeach Avenue</a>, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.

The 1,227 sqm site occupies a prominent corner position at Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, opposite the Mermaid Plaza retail and office precinct and around 140 metres walking distance from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> has designed the project, which will comprise 68 apartments across a mix of 48 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom residences.

The building will rise 12 storeys, reaching a maximum height of 36 metres, with the apartments accounting for a total of 156 bedrooms. The development application also seeks approval for short-term accommodation across the 68 apartments, while two office tenancies are proposed at ground level.

The plans show 108 car spaces across the development, with parking accommodated at ground level and within a three-level basement accessed from Seabeach Avenue.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2175c99-12fd-4a3c-9be1-89bbf258a90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.41%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=iNLzWcE6gaAE76rafhEXfHve.4g4Se0p" />

Resident amenity will be concentrated on level two, where Fraser &amp; Partners has designed a recreation deck with a swimming pool, 90 sqm pool terrace, outdoor barbecue area and gym.

The broader communal offering will also incorporate landscaped spaces, with the planning documents noting the amenity has been designed to provide areas for recreation, social interaction and outdoor living.

The proposal would continue the transformation of the Gold Coast Highway corridor through Mermaid Beach ahead of the arrival of the light rail.

The site is zoned Neighbourhood Centre and sits within the Mermaid Beach/Broadbeach Light Rail Corridor neighbourhood plan. While the prescribed building height is 24 metres, the site is identified within an Urban Neighbourhood context providing for a 50 per cent height uplift to 36 metres.

Planning documents describe the stretch of the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Nobby Beach as increasingly characterised by medium and high-rise development, with the proposed Morris tower joining projects including Ventura, The Alfred, Oceans and Otto.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911f193f-e381-4a55-be08-58be87fcf978" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=oxVvLJaY.SOXEdXrIcogfyEXDfvCmmpM" />

The development would mark Morris Property Group's latest investment in Mermaid Beach, where it has already delivered two apartment projects.

Otto, at 1 Bondi Avenue on the western side of the Gold Coast Highway, comprises 70 apartments across nine storeys. The project was completed in 2019 and includes a residents' gym, recreation deck and swimming pool.

Morris also developed Oceans at 46 Ocean Street, a nine-storey, 70-apartment build-to-rent development completed in 2019. Oceans was the group's first build-to-rent project and incorporates commercial space at ground level.

The two existing Morris projects sit further north along the same Gold Coast Highway corridor as the proposed Seabeach Avenue development. Fraser &amp; Partners' planning analysis specifically identifies both Otto and Oceans among the established built-form precedents surrounding the site.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14925119-7b71-4812-8149-340317512c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%203.00.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aEJqYuw_nTCjcin17BSD0piB1EFotTlj" />

Mermaid Beach represents only part of Morris' considerable Gold Coast footprint.

The family-owned developer has been particularly active in neighbouring Broadbeach, delivering projects including Sierra Grand, Eclipse, Synergy, Qube, Koko, Opus and Malo, while its current pipeline includes Maison and the two-tower Crest development.

Further south, Morris has also developed a string of projects in Burleigh Heads, including Element, Boardwalk and Sandbar, while Essentia expanded its footprint north into Surfers Paradise.

The Seabeach Avenue application has been lodged by PMM Broadbeach Pty Ltd and seeks a development permit for a Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, short-term accommodation and office uses. Zone Planning Group prepared the planning application, with Fraser &amp; Partners commissioned as architect.

The project comes as the developer continues to expand its Gold Coast pipeline while retaining a significant presence in Canberra. Morris now has more than $2.5 billion of development in its national pipeline and has delivered more than 7,000 homes during its near five-decade history

Joel Robinson

First look: Morris Property Group returns to Mermaid Beach with new Seabeach Avenue apartment development

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.

55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.

The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376250]

55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.

Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.

The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376253]

At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.

The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.

A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.

Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.

“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.

55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.

Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]

Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.

The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.

55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152579]

Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]

For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]

“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]

Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]

From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

The Maybelle brings 27-storey parkside tower to market near North Strathfield

First Home Buyers

<html><body>
Searching for an investment property or a home loan was not stressful for 76.3% of those surveyed in RAMS’ latest First Time Investor Survey 2014.
However a quarter of respondents said that they still don’t know where to start. There were also a number of pet peeves listed by new buyers.
In particular, the RAMS survey found three common property descriptions that first time buyers detested so much, that they would apparently seek legislative action to never see again.
The top three property descriptions that those surveyed wanted “outlawed”:
<ul>
<li>"Hot Property"</li>
<li>"Water Glimpses"</li>
<li>"Renovator’s Dream"</li>
</ul>
Source: RAMS.
According to the survey results, first time investors initially turn to real estate websites (38%) before trying a friend, family member or colleague (24%) and then looking to a real estate agent (23%) for assistance in finding their first investment.
The survey uncovered a majority of first time investors (51%) said that they would prefer researching their first investment property to having dinner with the in-laws (15.4%) or completing a tax return (11.2%).
A majority noted that they were looking for somewhere in a quiet neighbourhood, new appliances and fittings and close to public transport. The main purposes of the investment was potential capital group, followed by current low interest rates and tax benefits.
RAMS CEO Martine Jager said that first time investors are becoming savvier and increasingly using the resources available. However, she noted that face to face expert advice is still one of the most valuable tools.
Despite the lack of stress in searching for a property, 43% noted that rising interest rates are a concern and their long-term ability to pay for the property, as well as bad property management, were areas of worry.
“Despite first time investors being wary of rising interest rates, they do not appear to be overly sensitive to such increases, with their intention to invest only deterred by larger rate rises,” Jager said.
“The survey results showed that interest rates would have to rise by 2% before first time investors would start to rethink their strategy – which means, given recent fixed interest rate cuts by some lenders, even if the rate direction changes suddenly, there could still be at least a year of strong demand left in the Australian property market,” she explained.
“The survey results show that while investing in property is not a taxing exercise, there are still aspects of the search and buying process that are unappealing to buyers.
“It’s not surprising to find that most first time investors cite exaggerations with property descriptions as their biggest pet peeve when trying the find the right property to invest in. After all, buying a property is not just a financial commitment it is also a big investment of your time, and misleading listings can be discouraging and frustrating.”
Jager noted that first timers were mainly looking for cheaper entry points into the market.
“For many, this means buying a modest property in more affordable suburban areas which have good capital growth potential.” 
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

The three property descriptions that first time investors want "outlawed"

<html><body>
PARTNER CONTENT
In discussions regarding buying property the question of what type of property to purchase invariably comes up. People have predispositions towards one type or another, although generally it’s toward a house. But in today’s property market, is a house a smarter option over a strata-titled property such as an apartment or townhouse?
The two main objections encountered regarding strata property come down to not wanting to pay strata fees (or levies), and land accruing value faster for capital growth. The concern regarding strata fees could be considered as understandable, until you look into what they actually are.
Strata fees cover the daily costs and maintenance of the common property within the complex. This includes your parking, gardens, stairs and lifts, exterior walls and recreational facilities (pool, spa etc.), amongst others. It also covers the insurances and rates for these areas, as well as any electricity and water costs. A sometimes unknown component of a strata fee is the compulsory savings plan, also known as the sinking fund.
The sinking fund is there for any expected, and unexpected, repairs within the complex’s common areas. This could range from new carpets in the entry foyer, to damage as a result of structural movement. Overall, the components that form strata fees can generally be aligned to similar costs involved with holding non-strata titled property, sometimes less due to the number of owners contributing to the potential expense.
With comparative expenses regarding ownership costs, the issue of land having greater capital growth should be looked at. Unlike apartments, houses generally have useable land that contributes towards rising values. Established dwellings in good suburbs are fetching higher prices, however with block sizes shrinking nationally, the likelihood of a new house creating growth by being improved (subdivided, developed or renovated) is growing slim. This restriction of use, as well as a social shift in lifestyle choice, is changing the way houses are being viewed. In fact, <a href="https://www.rpdata.com/research/monthly_indices">RP Data</a>’s Home Value Index shows that apartments, rather than houses, have experienced higher growth in the past 12 months in all major cities except Sydney, Melbourne and Darwin.
Strata titled properties are also generally located closer to commercial and retail centres, and include amenities that are not found in comparably priced houses. Rather than leaning toward a specific property type, consider whether that type of property is suitable for the demographic of the area. Each location is going to have a type that will appeal and support levels of growth better than others, especially if there is an employment node within the area that also supports that demographic. In some areas a house may be suitable, in others a townhouse or an apartment.
Overall, don’t rule out apartments or strata-titled properties despite your predisposition towards a house. Because the next generation of buyers is also here: The hard-working, time-poor, social and inter-connected Gen-Ys that want to be near cafés, transport and amenities are looking to buy. They want to continue the lifestyle they lead and to them, that means strata living.
ANDREW HERBERT is partner of <a href="https://myfirstplace.com.au/Property-Observer" target="_blank">My First Place</a>.
My First Place is offering a buyers club to support buyers in finding their property.
For First Home Buyers there’s a package worth $4,200 that covers solicitor fees, mortgage application fees, building inspection, insurance and utilities.
For investors the package is worth $3,350 and it covers solicitor fees, mortgage application fees, building inspection, landlord insurance and a depreciation schedule.
</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

House v apartment: What's the best option for your first investment?

<html><body>
Real estate experts, commentators and industry members are regularly listened to carefully for tips and information on where to invest next and how the market is performing, among other advice.
However, every expert had to start somewhere. Property Observer asked a number of industry experts about their first homes, where they were, when they bought them and why. The results, which span across Australia, are a fascinating insight into their first step on the property ladder.
TERRY RYDER - <a href="https://www.Hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">Hotspotting.com.au</a> <img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Terry-Ryder.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
<ul>
<li>Location: <a href="/news">Bundamba</a> in Ipswich City in the south-west of the Brisbane metropolitan area.</li>
<li>Price purchased for: $25,000</li>
<li>Year purchased: 1981</li>
</ul>
 Do you still own the property? 
No, I sold it in 1984 for $40,000 (which was 60% growth in three years, proving that ugly real estate in downmarket suburbs can show exceptional capital growth). I then bought a house in the eastern suburbs of Brisbane for $50,000, which I later sold for $110,000.
Why did you buy that property? 
It was what I could afford at the time: a small weatherboard box on a noisy road in a fairly dismal suburb, but it was affordable and it was close to a commuter train station.
Did you renovate?
No, no renovations.
Why did you want to buy? 
I was fed up with being mistreated by landlords, so I decided to buy my own place.
TODD HUNTER - <a href="https://www.wheregroup.com.au/" target="_blank">wHeregroup<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/hunter-profile-2.png" alt="" style="float: right;"></a>
<ul>
<li>Location: <a href="/news">Cronulla</a>, Sydney NSW</li>
<li>Price purchased for: $112,000</li>
<li>Year purchased: 1993</li>
</ul>
 Do you still own the property? 
No I don't, it sold for $256,000
Why did you buy that property? 
It was my first home, a one bedroom unit very close to the water with a tandem car space. It started a love for property for me that is still there.
Did you renovate? 
Paint and carpets only.
Why did you want to buy? 
It was my first home and my parents instilled the property bug in me early as I purchased when I was 19 (after much saving for the 20% deposit is set up costs with my girlfriend... There was no first home owners grant then either).
ANDREW WILSON - <a href="https://apm.com.au/" target="_blank">Australian Property Monitors<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Andrew-Wilson.png" alt="" style="float: right;"></a>
<ul>
<li>Location: <a href="/news">Camberwell</a>, Victoria</li>
<li>Price purchased for: $95,000</li>
<li>Year purchased: 1986</li>
</ul>
 Do you still own the property? 
No. Good growth as purchased at bottom of the cycle before the 1988 boom.
Why did you buy that property? 
Great location, big block in a sleeper street - but in original condition (plenty of upside potential).
Did you renovate? 
I completely renovated and rebuilt.
Why did you want to buy? 
I’m Australian – the aspiration for home ownership is in our DNA.
MICHELLE COLEMAN - <a href="https://www.wfinancial.com.au/" target="_blank">W Financial<img src="/images/authors/fullbody/coleman-uly24-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;"></a>
<ul>
<li>Location: <a href="/news">Quinns Rock</a>, WA</li>
<li>Price purchased for: H&amp;L for $95,000</li>
<li>Year purchased: 1995</li>
</ul>
 Do you still own the property? 
No, I bought it with my partner at the time.  He does actually still own the property and it is estimated to be now worth around $550,000 to $600,000.
Why did you buy that property? 
It was what we thought we could afford at the time (that was closest to the beach of course), but also we thought the area would have good growth.
Now I look back with all my knowledge with finance and investing and wonder how we could have made our decision that way!
Did you renovate? 
We had to do some landscaping as it was house and land.  
At one point I really wanted a spa - it wasn't ever fully installed (when I was there) but I'd sit in it anyway.
We didn't have fences though at the time, so random people in the neighbourhood would wander by to have a chat.
Why did you want to buy? 
It's the great Australian dream; I wanted that like everyone does. That property didn't quite go to plan, but it did give me an appetite that has made me the investor I am today.
Article continues on next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
BRAD BEER - <a href="https://www.bmtqs.com.au/" target="_blank">BMT<img src="/images/2014/08/15/Bradley-beer-aug-15-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;"></a>
<ul>
<li>Location: The property is located slightly to the west of the main city of Newcastle in a suburb called <a href="/news">Georgetown</a>, NSW. It’s quite close to the Newcastle Knights stadium and the University of Newcastle, right near a bus stop and 300 metre from a Coles.</li>
<li>Price purchased for: The property is a four bedroom, one and a half bathroom house on 400 odd square metres of land with a big shed in the rear. I purchased it for $170,000. The current rental of the property is around $440 per week.</li>
<li>Year purchased: 2002</li>
</ul>
Do you still own the property? 
I still own the property, which has been well-performing since the day I purchased it. In fact, I’m generally a believer in not selling property, particularly when it has demonstrated a great deal of growth. I haven’t actually sold a single house to date.
Why did you buy that property?
I actually went to Newcastle University myself, so I was familiar with the area which I still think is quite a good area. I wanted to invest into property and someone I knew who was buying property was looking at the area and brought it to my attention.
It looked pretty rough when I bought it, so we negotiated hard because it was originally listed at $198,000. I also liked that it had a sizeable shed, because I thought I might have been able to use it in some way for storage purposes – every man needs a good shed in his life!
Did you renovate? 
I renovated it a couple of different times actually. When I bought it in 2002, I basically spent the first few months on a pretty decent internal renovation. I pulled the kitchen apart and discovered that it was full of cockroaches, it was an absolute mess, even the bathroom was a mess – it was all in pretty bad shape. So I got stuck into it and put together a new kitchen and a new bathroom.
I also had to put in new flooring and piers, and completely reline the bathroom. I polished floor boards, I painted, I basically just spruced up the whole of the inside. Even though I didn’t change any of the internal walls there was still a fair bit of work to be done, but I probably only spent about $20,000 because I did just about all the work myself.
I worked nights and weekends in the middle of winter in the freezing cold, but then about six months later we did a re-evaluation and it came in at about $240,000. This was great because I hadn’t done any exterior renovations by that point, so it had still gone up even though it still looked pretty bad from outside. There was probably also a bit of market movement around that time which would have helped, so I was able to leverage into my second property pretty quickly.
Then in about 2005, I did a fairly extensive external renovation also. It had those old forever boards on it, which I ripped off to put new weatherboards around the whole of the house. I painted the roof and did a fair bit of landscaping, adding in a picket fence, a new driveway – just basically renovated the whole of the exterior. In 2007 I revalued it at $425,000.
I’m still going on it. About three years ago I put on a new roof because it was old and needed replacing. It probably needed replacing when I bought it actually, but I’d just patched it up and put up with it for a while until I could do it properly.
Why did you want to buy?
I’d been at BMT for about three or four years by that point, and had the opportunity to learn a great deal about investing in property. I’d also been to a number of different property seminars then, and have been to a lot more since, and believed I wanted to invest into property based on what I’d learnt about investing in property to generate wealth. I’d also saved up my deposit by then and so was just ready to go.
Essentially, being at BMT and being surrounded by investors all the time, learning about investing in property and the fundamental ways to do that – I decided: right, now it’s my turn.
VICTOR KUMAR - <a href="https://www.rightpropertygroup.com.au/" target="_blank">Right Property Group<img src="/images/2014/08/15/kumar-aug-15-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;"></a>
First home:
<ul>
<li>Location: <a href="/news">Currans Hill</a>, NSW</li>
<li>Price purchased for: $137,000</li>
<li>Year purchased: 1998</li>
</ul>
 Do you still own the property? 
Yes. It was valued by the bank last week at $420,000. I lived in this untill 2006 and it is currently rented at $410 per week.
Did you renovate?
Removed carpets and put in floating floorboards because of my allergies. Also starting painting the trims at one stage, following a Peter Spanns renovation seminar in 1999, they are still half complete! During tenancy the only works I have done has been to replace a powerpoint... having said that I will now probably jinx myself!
First investment property:
<ul>
<li>Location: <a href="/news">Campbelltown</a>, NSW</li>
<li>Price purchased for: $70,000 (two-bedroom unit)</li>
<li>Year purchased: 1999</li>
</ul>
 Do you still own the property? 
No, I sold it in 2001 to fund the business startup for $185,000.
On purchase it was rented for $130 per week, on sale it was rented for $230 per week with the same tenant. Under the current market value it would be around $290,000.
I wish I hadn't sold and had bought more of these units back then!
MARGARET LOMAS - <a href="https://destiny.com.au/dotnetnuke/en-au/home.aspx" target="_blank">Destiny</a><img src="/images/authors/fullbody/Margaret-Lomas3.png" style="float: right;">
My first investment property, a one-bedroom unit. It had a green shag pile carpet and a weird T-shaped lounge, which we sectioned off with a wall to make a second bedroom.
<ul>
<li>Location: <a href="/news">Cabramatta</a>, New South Wales</li>
<li>Price purchased for: $28,000</li>
<li>
Year purchased: 1980 
</li>
</ul>
Do you still own the property? 
Back then no one understood leveraging.  I sold it to buy a three-bedroom townhouse in <a href="/news">Macquarie Fields</a>. In the two years we owned it, it grew by $6,000. That's probably pretty good!
Why did you buy that property?
My dad said we had to get into the property market, I was 20 and engaged.  It was the only area we could afford.
Did you renovate? 
We painted it, and added a shower screen to the tiny bath but that was all.
</body></html>

Where the experts bought their first homes

<html><body>
Buying your first property can be nerve-wracking and in the public arena of an auction, even more so.
While purchasing a home is a big deal, it doesn't need to be the source of sleepless nights and endless stress. Here's our step by step guide to buying a property at auction.
<ol>
<li>
Attend auctions - lots of them If you thought researching your first home was all about finding your dream home, in your dream area, within your dream budget, you were wrong. You also need to know how to go about buying your dream property.  There are only so many articles on how to bid at auction you can read (even if they're <a href="/expert-insights/buying/twelve-tips-for-bidding-at-property-auctions">really good ones</a>).  What you really need is to go out and watch some auctions. Not one or two, but many - at least a dozen. Get a feeling of what the buyers are in your prospective area. Are they all nervous first home buyers making it on their own, like you? Downsizers? Well dressed hipsters bidding on their first homes, with their mothers standing slightly behind them, to the left?  Take note of the bidders - they're your competition. Get familiar with the terminology - do you know what a reserve is? A vendor bid? Did you realise that the reserve can change?  Viewing lots of auctions will also allow you to see how far prices tend to go above the price guide, if they do. What looks like a $400,000 property on a listing website might look like a $600,000 one to some on auction day. Use the opportunity different styles of various auctioneers, too. 
</li>
<li>Set your limit It's good to know well in advance how much you can afford to pay on auction day. There are lots of online calculators provided by lenders that will help you determine how much you can afford to borrow and pay for your first home. Remember, when it comes to budgeting for a big purchase, it pays to be prudent - keep in mind future career changes and any babies that might be on the way. It's not a bad idea to build a small buffer into your maximum - don't lose out on your dream property because of a bid that's $1,000 over your "limit".  Keep an eye on the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/what-does-a-home-really-cost-for-a-first-time-buyer">hidden costs you might not have factored in</a> - there's more to purchase costs than just the deposit.  </li>
<li>
Identify your potential home Once you've done your research, figured out where you can afford, driven around lots of suburbs and probably adjusted your expectations a little, you've come across a home you really love at an open for inspection. Chat to the real estate agent and keep in contact. If there isn't a price guide listed on the advertising material, ask them for an indication of what the vendor wants. Go to subsequent open for inspections and arrange some private inspections too (more on that later). 
</li>
<li>
Secure your finance. Unfortunately, there is occasionally a discrepancy between what you think you can afford and what your lender thinks you can afford, after they've had a look at the property in question, your income and your credit history. Before putting in a bid at auction, you'll need to know how you're going to pay for your new house. No finance, no purchase, and when you place the winning bid, you'll need to put down a deposit - there's no backing out, unless there's a built in cooling off period (which is best avoided and may require you forfeiting part of your deposit). Decide on <a href="/expert-insights/buying/getting-your-first-loan-heres-what-you-need-to-know">the kind of loan</a> you want and<a href="/expert-insights/finance/a-quick-guide-to-home-loan-pre-approval"> get pre-approval for your loan</a> from the bank. While this isn't a guarantee that you'll get a loan, it's about as close as you can get. And while you're at the bank, get a cheque book. You'll need one to put down your deposit. 
</li>
<li>
Order an inspection. About a week out from the auction day, you should order a building inspection for the house. Just because it has four walls doesn't mean it's stable - there could be issues with the roofing, asbestos or structural damage. An independent <a href="/expert-insights/investing/the-importance-of-building-inspections-in-property-transactions">building inspector should be able to spot the things you can't</a>, and hopefully can save you from ending up with a dud.  Make sure you <a href="/news/how-to-choose-a-building-and-pest-inspector">choose a building inspector who is independent and reputable</a>. While you're at it, ordering a pest inspection can also be worthwhile - pest inspectors might spot termite damage that will cost you a lot of money down the track. 
</li>
<li>
Have a lawyer or conveyancer look over your contract. Seeing as this will probably be the first time you've seen a property contract, it's best to bring in the experts (actually, we recommend always getting a lawyer to look over your contract.) 
</li>
<li>Figure out your strategy Now you <a href="/news/understanding-auction-talk-patrick-bright">know your auction lingo</a>, it's time to prepare yourself on how and when you will bid. Part of this may be putting in an offer before the day. However, when you get to the auction, should you dive in with the early slam-dunk all-cards-on-the-table bid, or wait until close to the bidding has stopped? Much of this will become clear to you as you watch other bidders in action in step one. However, it'll make you feel that little bit better if you know when you'll be likely to bid and what the plan is if there are quite a few other keen bidders. If you're not entirely confident, you <a href="/expert-insights/investing/engaging-a-buyers-agent-will-level-the-playing-field">may decide to hire a buyer's agent</a> to act on your behalf, some of whom employ a number of strategic tactics they have learned over years of bidding at auction, such as bidding in unusual increments.</li>
</ol>
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Buying your first property at auction: A step by step guide

<html><body>
One of the biggest hurdles for many prospective first time home buyers and first time investors is affording the initial deposit.
While those who already own a home or asset have the ability to either sell or use any equity they have built up, novice investors will be required to stump up a sum of money to get their foot onto the property ladder.
However, short of "buying a cup of coffee less a week" (which is real 'advice' doled out to first timers on a regular basis), what are the actual savings tips that will let you get ahead?
Here are some collected tips on how to boost your savings, push up that deposit and see yourself purchasing a property sooner than expected. There are two basic areas to improve here – earning more or spending less.
Earn
<ul>
<li>Sell unwanted goods</li>
</ul>
If you're an average person in your 20s or 30s you will likely have accumulated a lot of unwanted "stuff". That is, clothes that you don't wear (often with tags attached for the shopaholics), outdated mobile phones, laptops and other electronics, and gifts you never wanted or never used. A bit of time and effort online can quickly turn these into extra space in your current home and cash in your pocket. Websites such as eBay and Gumtree require you doing very little other than uploading a description and some decent photographs. Also try Twitter and Facebook shout-outs.
<ul>
<li>Use your skills wisely</li>
</ul>
While you may not be able to take on that second job, you can still use your skills for some cash. Whether it's writing a freelance article, or creating art to sell online, there are some ways to have sideline projects. Former Property Observer journalist Nicola Trotman has <a href="https://luluscandles.com/" target="_blank">Lulu's Candles</a> - an online vegan soy candle shop - and a number of staff write freelance articles.
You may also be able to fix computer problems, or even teach people (many Community Colleges are looking for people to teach short courses and the demand for private tutors rarely eases off) or perhaps you can bake cakes to sell them to friends or at stalls. Online sites such as etsy.com can be really helpful, as can different markets that often allow you to set up a stall for a small fee. Remember to use flyers in your local area to advertise your services.
<ul>
<li>Do odd jobs</li>
</ul>
While it can be tedious to go from person to person to find out if there's anyone who might be willing to part with a bit of money in return for someone to do the run to the shops, there's now an online solution. The website <a href="https://oneshift.com.au/" target="_blank">One Shift</a> is getting even more popular as a way to get quick short-term employment for a little bit of extra cash.
<ul>
<li>Rent out your space</li>
</ul>
If you have a spare room (or garage space), or you could bring another tenant into your rental to share costs, then either of these can be a practical temporary option.
Tips on how you can save money by spending less are on the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Spend less 
<ul>
<li>Home brand/basic brand everything</li>
</ul>
From medicine to baked beans, and from iPods to clothes, there's a generic brand available. If you're in savings mode then you should take full advantage of these cheaper alternatives. While they may not be quite as nice, it's rare that the extra cost actually translates into the product truly being that much better. Make sure you weigh the pros and cons up first. 
<ul>
<li>Keep a coin jar </li>
</ul>
Take out your cash from the ATM (and avoid those pesky $2+ charges at 'other' ATMs) for the week and spend no more than you have. Try to leave the credit and EFTPOS cards at home when possible and limit online buying by having a separate card and separate account where you can limit the money that you put in. Keep access to funds at a distance and provide obstacles, and see yourself spend less.
<ul>
<li>Cancel your unnecessary costs</li>
</ul>
Do you really use that gym subscription? Be honest with yourself about what services you are using and what you can cancel. If having a gym membership is important to you, then keep it, but if you're going once a fortnight then question the cost. Also consider your memberships to organisations, costly subscriptions to titles you may not read and other money drainers. See if there's a way you can minimise these costs as well - are you on any plans that you can bring down a level (or increase, if you're going over every month)? 
<ul>
<li>Get gifts you need</li>
</ul>
If your birthday is coming up, ask for things you'll actually use. Maybe get them to pay for your gym subscription or thr sunglasses that you've needed instead.
<ul>
<li>Shop around</li>
</ul>
You likely hear this one all the time, but if you can give your shipping trip a bit of extra time it'll be worth it. Most shopping centres have a Woolworths and a Coles, so pick up both brochures and look for deals. Keep an eye out for reduced food, and when it gets reduced through the day. Remember to consider secondhand goods and books as well - just as we mentioned selling your secondhand items above, you can also pick up the things you need far more cheaply on these sites.
<ul>
<li>Rent or borrow, don't buy</li>
</ul>
Your library, DVD rental (or iTunes rental) and your acquaintances can be used to good effect when saving money. Instead of buying that DVD you'll watch once for $25, go and pick up a $5 rental. Sign up to your library for books, CDs and DVDs (they also have magazine sections and regularly host free events). And ask friends when you need a bigger item. Perhaps you need a steam cleaner or you find yourself needing an unusual kitchen appliance - ask around and see if anyone can lend you one for the task. Consider sharing items such as books and magazines among friends as well - circulating these luxury items can save you a significant amount in the long term.
<ul>
<li>Use less or use what you buy completely</li>
</ul>
It sounds hard, but it's often just a case of looking a little closer at how you go about your day. If you have food leftovers, see what you can feed to your animals (check for allergens and unhealthy items first - such as avocado, dairy, raisins and more being dangerous for dogs). You might be able to turn some of the food into "other dishes", such as turning a curry one night running into a pie the second night, or turning spaghetti bolognaise sauce into a lasagna. However, these tips do not just apply to food - have a look at your other costs too. Consider using a two-in-one shampoo/conditioner, or toothpaste/mouthwash (a new product we've seen) that can often cost substantially less than buying and using both.
Some further tips and suggestions are on the next page. Please click below. 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Extra suggestions
<ul>
<li>Make the most of rewards points</li>
</ul>
Keep an eye on rewards cards and free store cards that can get you access to deals and offers. Ensure there aren't any excess costs to sign up and be a 'member' that may outweigh the benefits. Ensure you only use coupons when you were already intending to buy the item (or when it turns out to be the more economical alternative). There are a number of decent loyalty cards that can provide some significant benefits.
<ul>
<li>Track your spending using an app</li>
</ul>
Keeping an eye on what you're spending and where can be half the struggle. Luckily, if you're a smart phone user, then you can just download an app that will help you keep an eye on it. Consider MoneySmart if you're unsure where to start. For non-smartphone users, a simple written diary of costs and every time you purchase an item will do just as well - as will an Excel spreadsheet that you can update.
<ul>
<li>Check if you're using the best savings account</li>
</ul>
You may be on an interest rate that's low, or an account that charges excess fees when you take money out. Ensure you know the fine print for your accounts, and always check with your banking institution to see if there's a product that may better fit your personal situation. Many have multiple savings-style accounts.
<ul>
<li>Look towards DIY first when you need to fix something</li>
</ul>
You'd be surprised how many YouTube videos and online tutorials there are explaining how to fix some of the most niche items. We've heard of people using online tutorials to build fireplaces, fix car windows and more. While you want to make sure it's not another example of a "false economy" and that you will actually save money (and won't put yourself in danger), it's always worth seeing if you can reduce labour charges by doing it yourself.
<ul>
<li>Check your tax</li>
</ul>
Are you claiming all the exemptions you are entitled to? Sometimes not using an accountant is truly a false economy, and you really want to make sure you maximise your tax return. See the <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/Deductions-you-can-claim/" target="_blank">claimable deductions by profession</a> to ensure you have put everything on the list. Keep your receipts in order or recorded as you go.
<ul>
<li>Don't miss out on special offers</li>
</ul>
If you are looking to buy something online, the first thing to do is type the name of the shop or item into Google and search for 'coupons', 'promo codes' and 'offers' to see if anything comes up. Once or twice out of 10 you might net yourself a 10% decrease, an added bonus or even a free ticket. You might also want to sign up for free online newsletters (get yourself a 'dummy' email to send these to) for comedy clubs and different events and you'll often see significant reductions being offered to online members last minute. Just be wary that you don't buy anything you weren't initially intending to due to seeing the advertisement.
<ul>
<li>Don't forget to argue</li>
</ul>
If you have an unfair fine - put in a call (and take photos for evidence). They can only say no. And if you have done the wrong thing, pay it on time before it gets out of hand.
YOU MIGHT ALSO WANT TO READ <a href="/expert-insights/finance/getting-a-bigger-home-loan-seven-tips-to-boost-your-borrowing-power">Seven tips to boosting your borrowing power</a>
</body></html>

Mastering your deposit: Tips to boost your savings

<html><body>
Hi Margaret,
I am buying my first home at 30, having rented before this with a friend.
I have got about $50,000 saved as a deposit and some other money set aside for costs, and have been given the option to either buy on my own or with the friend I’m renting with.
What are the benefits of buying with him and should I be considering it?
Thanks,
G.
Margaret's answer on the next page. Please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Dear G,
I am often asked by many investors whether or not they should be buying property with a friend, a sibling or with a group of other investors.  It’s a common thing for people to buy property with a spouse, and if you think about that, you are already taking the good with the bad when it comes to a life partner. Sharing real estate is only another facet in the complex fabric of life.
When it comes to a friend, you could be tossing up buying together for a number of reasons.  It could be that you can’t afford to go alone, or can’t save enough of a deposit.  Another reason may be that you feel more confident buying with someone else than you would alone.  Whatever the reason, it might seem like a good idea at the time, but like a lot of good ideas, it can all come apart later on.
If you are tossing up whether or not to buy with someone who is not your spouse or life partner, it can help if you go in with your eyes wide open. 
Here are just a few of the things you must know:
<ol>
<li>
You can trust yourself, but.... You probably know that you can afford to meet the repayments, and that in times of stress you have enough money to be able to see through until the good times.  You know that your job is secure, and so you will always have a steady income flow.  But can you be as sure about the person you are planning to buy with? It is easier when it is your spouse – when you get married or choose to live together it is always for better or worse.  And it may seem easy when we are talking about a brother or a sister, a mum or dad or son or daughter (although often that is not the case). However, when it comes to friends you can never be sure how much of what they are telling you is actually true.  It’s amazing how quickly someone’s circumstances can change, and the last thing you need is to be left holding all of the commitments on a property whose title you only half own.  
</li>
<li>
Difficult financing arrangements Where all parties are bringing in the same amount of money as a cash deposit, and a joint loan, secured by only the property in question (the one being purchased) is accessed, this may remain relatively simple. All parties pay their required portion of the debt, receive their share of the income and complete separate tax returns claiming their own tax deductions. Where differing amounts are provided by each person, or where the other party may be borrowing against the equity they have in another property and bringing in their deposit via another loan from elsewhere, things get tricky. All bills will then need to be divided up according to the original allocation and the tile will need to reflect the different proportions of ownership. The risk increases too, if one party is using a loan for their deposit – it creates a higher risk of that person not being able to manage their repayments. It is useful to note here also that, when you sign mortgage documents for a debt where another party is involved, you become jointly, and severally, responsible for the repayment of that debt.  If the other party takes off to Rio, you cannot call your bank and offer to repay only your half, or to keep repayments on only your half going.  You become responsible for the entire debt, while at law you still only own half (or your share) of the property. 
</li>
<li>
What’s yours is mine – including all your debt! Since you become jointly and severally responsible for any loan you take out with other people, the commitment for the entire loan, rather than half of it, may be considered when establishing your serviceability with a bank.  So, you may have a loan of $300,000 with two other people, and your share is $100,000, but a bank may consider that you have a commitment to the entire $300,000. Conversely that same lender will only consider the income on your third of the property, since you only own a one third share. This may limit your ability to borrow additional funds to undertake more borrowing to buy investments in your name only, and could hamper your ultimate progress. 
</li>
<li>
Using the growing equity Imagine if the equity in your shared property grew so quickly that you were ready to buy again soon – but you decided that you did not want to buy with that person again. Unless you are prepared to liquidate, lose a fair portion in capital gains tax and start again, unfortunately you may have difficulty using this equity to invest further. 
</li>
<li>
Time to get out – but do you both agree? Your life suddenly changes.  You meet the perfect partner and want to move to the country, you are offered a divine job overseas for 20 years, or you simply want to cash out and take a Harley around route 66.  If your timing does not coincide exactly with that of your fellow property owner, you may not be able to take advantage of this great new opportunity because you cannot realise your assets.  Unless you are both ready to make a major change, owning property with others can often prevent you from taking on a great opportunity which may come along out of the blue. 
</li>
<li>
When you are doing all the work. Owning a property is not without its hard work.  If you suddenly find yourself doing all the work, it may seem like an unfair thing that you are only accessing your title’s share of any growing equity.  You may believe you are entitled to a greater share, but at law, this is not possible.  You cannot really know the capacity of another person to do their bit until after the deed is done, and by then it may be too late.
</li>
</ol>
In summary:
If there is absolutely no other way for you to get into the market than to do it with another, non spouse person, then at least sign a partnership agreement at the commencement of the deal in which you cover every possible eventuality and agree to a procedure to manage it. Going in with your eyes open may prevent a major disaster in the long-term. So will not investing with others at all!
Regards,
Margaret
Have a property question? <a href="mailto:askmargaret@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">Ask Margaret!</a>
</body></html>

mlomas-KC9MUPZ6Ca

Should I buy a property with a friend? Six things to consider first: Ask Margaret

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
So you were born between the late 70s and the early 90s - chances are housing affordability and home ownership is at the top of your list of priorities. We hear many of you asking, "How can I get in to the market?" It's too expensive; it's dominated by investors; I'm doomed to renting for the rest of my life.
However, this doesn't need to be the case. Here is how to crack it:
<ol>
<li>
What to do if you think you can't buy The worst thing you can do is make the assumption you can't buy and assume you have to rent. Chances are if you can be approved for a rental agreement, there is a chance you can be approved for a mortgage. Before you count yourself out, collect all of the funds you have that could be used for a deposit. Take note, that you don't need to put all of your equity in to your home. Take a longer mortgage out and take advantage of fixing your interest rate at the current very low levels. 
</li>
<li>
Make sure you bring an agent in from the outset  If you want to buy, you need to learn from experts. Agents live and breath the market daily, so call three or four local agents in the areas you are looking. Stipulate your price range, your must-haves, and your readiness to act. Then let them do their work. Tell them how much contact you want to achieve, if you are specific on only one type of property, tell them that is the only time to contact you.  
</li>
<li>
Remember to wait.... It's not urgent  Once you've made the decision to buy, remember that this is something that will take time. There is not a transactional element involved here, but do remember that whilst it most likely is your largest investment, don't be scared. Too many people sit back and wait for the 'perfect home', which doesn't exist. Speak to people who have been through the process and ask what worked for them, and what didn't. Set up alerts so it doesn't consume your life.  
</li>
<li>
Pick the neighbourhood, not the house  Before you start trying to pick a home, drill down on the hard facts of where you want to live. If there are multiple areas, try a map search with multiple suburbs. Before you do this, there is no use in looking at houses. Once you have concluded which areas you want to live in, and have factored in your approved budget you will be working with realistic purchases that are worth you spending your time on. 
</li>
<li>
Use the inspection wisely  Most people turn up to an inspection and walk through, for first home owners, because homes are generally small they finish this in five to 10 minutes. If you are serious, start thinking bigger picture. Measure walls, spaces and ask questions. Ideas such as if you can knock walls down, the expected monthly costs associated with a house of that size, and viewing the home with a builder are all ways to ensure you have a plan of attack, not just to live there, but also to add resale value.
</li>
</ol>
Todd Schulberg is marketing engagement and digital strategy executive at <a href="https://www.homely.com.au/" target="_blank">Homely</a>.
</body></html>

Five tips to help Gen Y buyers crack the market

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
Independent Australian Senator Nick Xenophon is planning a legislative <a href="https://nickxenophon.com.au/media/releases/show/home-affordability-a-super-idea/?Stage=stage" target="_blank">push</a> for first home buyers to be able to access their superannuation savings to pay for a house deposit, mirroring a similar policy in Canada.
As with Australia and Canada, home ownership in New Zealand continues to be seen as a birthright and there is concern about home affordability as house prices, in the main centres at least, continue to rise.
When New Zealand’s workplace-based retirement savings scheme - KiwiSaver - was launched in 2007 the government included several incentives to make the scheme more attractive. One of these was the ability to withdraw contributions to enable the KiwiSaver member to purchase his or her first home.
The government also offers a first home deposit subsidy of NZ$1,000 per year of KiwiSaver membership, with a minimum of three years and a maximum of five years. Both benefits were in response to concerns that the deduction of KiwiSaver contributions from a young person’s pay packet would restrict their ability to get on the home ownership ladder.
How it works
Withdrawing savings for a first home becomes an option after three years or more of KiwiSaver membership. The member’s own contributions can be withdrawn, along with those of their employer. However, the government’s contributions, comprising a NZ$1,000 kickstart for new members and a member tax credit of up to $521.43 per annum, cannot be withdrawn.
The availability of the deposit subsidy is more restricted, with limits on income and the maximum purchase price of the property. Both benefits are only available for the purchase of a first home, with very limited exceptions, and never for an investment property.
These incentives were important in making the controversial scheme more palatable to the public. However, research has shown these incentives are less important to KiwiSaver members than the other government incentives. (Although this is likely to reflect the fact that many members will have already purchased their first home).
Incentives aren’t helping affordability
The benefits for first home buyers do little to assist with home affordability, which relates to the ongoing cost of home ownership. The latest <a href="https://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/learning/colleges/college-business/school-of-economics-and-finance/research/mureau.cfm">report</a> from Massey University’s Real Estate Analysis Unit found home affordability across New Zealand had deteriorated by 7.6% over the year to May 2014.
The benefits are also likely to have limited impact on house prices overall, particularly given the purchase price restrictions associated with the deposit subsidy. Certainly no restraining impact has been indicated, with house prices continuing to rise and ongoing concerns of a housing bubble in New Zealand.
While the benefits could also potentially help push prices up by increasing demand from first home buyers, there is no evidence this has occurred. The purchase price restrictions associated with the deposit subsidy will help curb any potential inflationary impact on house prices. The persistent increase in house prices, particularly in Auckland, continues to be driven primarily by immigration and speculation.
However, KiwiSaver’s first home benefits do assist New Zealanders into their first home by helping them meet the minimum deposit levels required to be able to obtain a loan, something made more difficult with the introduction of loan-to-value ratio (LVR) limits by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand in October 2013. (This has meant that 90% of a bank’s new home loans require a deposit of 20% or more).
The most recent figures available pre-date the LVR changes, but show that more than 10,000 New Zealanders withdrew savings of more than NZ$120 million from their KiwiSaver accounts to assist with their first home purchase in the year to March 2013. In addition, nearly 5,000 subsidies worth more than NZ$15 million were provided in the year to May 2013.
While it’s likely some KiwiSaver members have simply taken advantage of the availability of these benefits, for many young people they will have been vital to helping them achieve their goal of home ownership.
It could be argued that allowing withdrawals from KiwiSaver accounts defeats the purpose of retirement savings. While we know that the earlier you start saving the better, the reality is losing three to five years’ worth of contributions at a relatively young age will not be a disaster – and the retention of the government contributions means the member does not go back to square one as a result of the withdrawal.
Helping young people to help in retirement
While the lifetime benefits of renting versus home ownership continue to be debated, the <a href="https://media.nzherald.co.nz/webcontent/document/pdf/201333/RetExpBudget_Report_Aug2013.pdf">New Zealand Retirement Expenditure Guidelines</a> identified the financial benefits for retirees who own their own unencumbered home, compared to those who are renting. This suggests assisting young people to make their first home purchase will provide benefits for them in the long-term, and improve their retirement prospects.
Another reason to support home ownership is that it provides more secure accommodation for families, compared to renting. Fundamental changes to the property rental market in New Zealand would be needed to change this.
However, there is a large difference between a 25-year old withdrawing three years of contributions and a 50-year old withdrawing 10 years of contributions –the latter will be significantly disadvantaged in terms of retirement income. To counter this it would be sensible to restrict the withdrawal amount or the age at which withdrawals can be made from the scheme.
While the ability to use KiwiSaver savings to achieve a greater level of home ownership has been a successful policy in New Zealand, there is a strong case for introducing some limits to protect its underlying focus on retirement.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/29950/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="line-height: 1.3em;">
Claire Matthews is director of academic programmes at <a href="https://www.massey.ac.nz/massey/home.cfm" target="_blank">Massey University</a>.
Claire Matthews has received funding from Finsia. She is affiliated with the Fin-Ed Centre, NZCU Baywide and the New Zealand Association of Credit Unions.
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.
</body></html>

cmatthews-j6ptUweXhR

New Zealand's experience shows that tapping super is unlikely to improve affordability

<html><body>
Finance commitments are on the rise for those buying new homes, and it appears that first home buyers are making themselves seen again with the second consecutive rise now being recorded, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data.
Master Builders Australia chief economist Peter Jones pointed to the 2.2% seasonally adjusted rise as something that will “inspire continuing confidence” in residential building.
“The latest housing finance data for June also means that the rate of growth is up 10% seasonally adjusted through the year,” said Jones.
“First home buyer commitments rose for the second consecutive month, a positive sign for the industry that may herald a continuing return of first home buyers to the market,” he said.
Meanwhile, Housing Industry Association economist Diwa Hopkins said that this follows significant declines in the December and March quarters, but that the June 2014 quarter is now recording an uptick – at a modest 1% pace.
“Over the full 2013/14 fiscal year new home lending increased by 12%. With lending rates remaining very low, turnover in the established home market has risen, as have home prices. The residential construction industry has responded strongly to these signals,” she said.
“In terms of new home lending being a leading indicator of residential building, today’s housing finance figures suggest home building activity should continue its strong recovery as we progress through the second half of the year.”
However, CommSec chief economist Craig James pointed to loans for new home building hitting a four year high, with first time buyers lifting to 13.2%, and also noted that the number of owner occupier commitments generally was up by 0.2% in June, but the value increased by 1.8%. He noted that this was the biggest rise in seven months.
First home buyers’ loan commitments are still below the long-term average of 20%. Across Australia, the average home loan was $327,000, or 7.4% up on one year prior.
</body></html>

Loans to new homes on a high, first home buyers re-emerging

<html><body>
First time investors, and even seasoned property buyers, can often fall into the trap of thinking that just because it sounds cheap it means it’s a good investment. 
While everyone loves a low entry level price, it just isn’t always the case that it's an astute buy and you’d be wise to look beyond the median price when considering areas in which to purchase.
Median prices in themselves are of limited usefulness. Be sure to understand how this figure is put together before reading median price lists (<a href="/expert-insights/investing/how-to-determine-the-median-house-price">this article here will give you a kick start</a>).
You’ll notice in the list of 40 suburbs we’ve put together that they are wildly below the state and territory averages, and for this reason some are in undesirable areas, some are in the middle of, quite frankly, nowhere and others have suffered for other reasons.
Zeehan, for instance, is an area frequently discussed by Property Observer editor at large Jonathan Chancellor as <a href="/expert-insights/letter-from-the-editor-property-investing-isnt-about-the-sexy-sales-pitch">somewhere investors purchased en masse</a>. They were speculating about property growth based on news that a mine was opening up. When it did, and subsequently closed just months later, prices crashed down again. It’s unsurprisingly now the cheapest suburb, based on median price, in Tasmania.
Some suburbs will be unable to shake off the factor holding their property prices back for many years. Whether it’s stigma, which has the potential to be changed, or distance from employment that doesn’t appear to be altering any time soon, be honest with yourself about why the locality is cheap, and what chances there are that this will ease.
It may be one of the cheapest properties you ever buy, but it may also work out to be one of the most expensive in terms of opportunity cost.
Be prepared to educate yourself, learn about the market, and go in with a critical mind.
It's also worth remembering not to follow the crowd. While <a href="/expert-insights/buying/where-are-victorian-first-home-owners-applying-for-grants">this list here might be where Victorian first home buyers are currently purchasing</a>, it doesn't mean it's right for you.
Turn over page for the 40 cheapest property markets.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Here are 40 suburbs, the five cheapest by state and territory, and their median prices as per the latest RP Data statistics.
Click on each of the suburb's headlines to see more statistics and local details about their property markets.
ACT
<a href="/news">Charnwood</a>
$390,000
<a href="/news">Macgregor</a>
$430,000
<a href="/news">Richardson</a>
$432,000
<a href="/news">Ngunnawal</a>
$434,000
<a href="/news">Holt</a>
$445,000
 
NSW
<a href="/news">Collarenebri</a>
$55,000
<a href="/news">Mugindi</a>
$65,000
<a href="/news">Binnaway</a>
$65,000
<a href="/news">Lightning Ridge</a>
$75,000
<a href="/news">Ardlethan</a>
$79,000
 
NT
<a href="/news">Zuccoli</a>
$240,000
<a href="/news">Tennant Creek</a>
$255,000
<a href="/news">Mount Johns</a>
$263,000
<a href="/news">Johnston</a>
$290,000
<a href="/news">Katherine South</a>
$300,000
 
QLD
<a href="/news">Cunnamulla</a>
$40,000
<a href="/news">Richmond</a>
$79,000
<a href="/news">Monto</a>
$98,000
<a href="/news">Morgan</a>
$131,000
 
SA
<a href="/news">Hawker</a>
$90,000
<a href="/news">Nangwarry</a>
$90,000
<a href="/news">Peterborough</a>
$90,000
<a href="/news">Coober Pedy</a>
$104,000
<a href="/news">Gladstone</a>
$128,000
 
TAS
<a href="/news">Zeehan</a>
$60,000
<a href="/news">Queenstown</a>
$68,000
<a href="/news">Rosebery</a>
$76,000
<a href="/news">Gagebrook</a>
$118,000
<a href="/news">George Town</a>
$128,000
 
VIC
<a href="/news">Kaniva</a>
$73,000
<a href="/news">Ouyen</a>
$75,000
<a href="/news">Jeparit</a>
$76,000
<a href="/news">Nyah West</a>
$78,000
<a href="/news">Pyramid Hill</a>
$82,000
 
WA
<a href="/news">Norseman</a>
$35,000
<a href="/news">Leonora</a>
$36,000
<a href="/news">Southern Cross</a>
$82,000
<a href="/news">Mount Magnet</a>
$83,000
<a href="/news">Kellerberrin</a>
$90,000
</body></html>

First Home Buyers

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

First Home Buyers

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News