For first home buyers, it’s the million dollar question: Should you go hard and buy the very best property you can afford? Or be more conservative? 

Two experts, Stephen Villios, a RAMS Home Loan Specialist from Unley in South Australia and property guru Frank Valentic, weigh in. 

More to gain, more to lose?

Stephen says while there’s lots of factors to consider, it ultimately comes down to simple mathematics. 

“Obviously, the higher the value of the property you buy, the more you stand to gain when that property goes up in value over time,” he says.

“You have the option of growing more wealth with a property that’s worth more, that’s just a fact,” Stephen says. 

“But, and this is a big but, there is absolutely no point doing that if you’re going to over-extend yourself and risk getting into difficulty; especially with your first property purchase,” he adds. 

“Looking at it purely from a financial perspective, my advice if you can afford it is to try to purchase at around the median house price in the state you’re purchasing in, because by definition, that’s the most marketable price bracket when you come to sell,” Stephen says.

Spend well under or well over the median, and the pool of potential buyers shrinks, he adds.

The median price is generally the most marketable price bracket when it comes time to sell. Picture: realestate.com.au

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Stephen says buyers need to look closely at what they can realistically pay back, to ensure they don’t get into trouble.  

Frank – the founder of buyers’ advocacy service, Advantage Property Consulting, best known for bidding at auctions on TV show The Block – says it’s better to start small. 

He suggests property newbies follow the KISS principle; “keep it simple, stupid!”

“Buy something small and ease your way into the market, rather than overcommit and find you’re mortgaged to the roof, eating bread and water and not enjoying life,” Frank says.

“If you push yourself to the absolute maximum, you could end up defaulting on your mortgage and the bank could repossess your home for not keeping up with payments,” he says.

Starting small, purchasing a one-bedroom apartment, is a smart way to get onto the property ladder. Picture: realestate.com.au

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Frank warns against borrowing everything the lender will give you. “I think it’s better to get a pre-approval and whatever that maximum borrowing capacity is, go to 60 to 70% of that,” he says. 

“I definitely think buying an entry-level property, that will do you for three to five years, is the way to go,” Frank says. 

“That’s what I did when I bought my first house in Brunswick East. I lived there for five years, it doubled in value, and I then moved to a suburb where I really wanted to live, ” he says.

Starting small, finishing big

Picture: It may not be the Taj Mahal, but a smaller property can get you onto the property ladder. Picture: realestate.com.au

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Buying within your means has many upsides, Frank says.

“The advantages are that you may then be able to buy a property that is good value and ticks a lot of the boxes, without overcommitting and which you can potentially re-sell in the future and upgrade to another property,” he says.

“If you can afford to, you could upgrade if you are an upsizing family and you have kids and need more space than you had in your first property.” 

Compromise is the big disadvantage, Frank says. “You may need to compromise on the type of property you may be buying at first. It may not tick all the boxes that you want,” he says.

“You don’t buy the Taj Mahal first up. Buy the smaller property and then build up to that second better property.”

Information in this material is general and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and you should consider whether it is appropriate for you.  You should also obtain independent professional advice relevant to your financial circumstances. RAMS Financial Group Pty Limited does not endorse or assume any responsibility for the advice, content or services provided by any third party referred to in this material. RAMS Financial Group Pty Limited ABN 30 105 207 538 AR 405465 Australian credit licence 388065. Credit provider and issuer of RAMS deposit products: Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714

This article was originally published on
15 Jan 2018 at 9:00am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

There are many reasons you might want to find out who owns a property or piece of land. Suppose you’re on a walk in Nashville, TN, and you pass by a home that you instantly fall in love with and want to buy. Or maybe you’re researching an empty lot, tracking down a landlord, or looking into a potential investment. Whatever the case, finding out who owns a property is often easier than you think.

Many property records are publicly available, and with the right tools, you can uncover details in just a few steps – just make sure the website you use is legitimate. From online searches to government records and real estate experts, this guide breaks down 12 effective ways to help you find out who owns a property.

How to find out who owns a property

1. Search online
2. Ask the county tax assessor
3. Contact the county clerk
4. Search the registry of deeds
5. Visit the local library
6. Use a title company
7. Pay for an online service
8. Consult mailing list brokers
9. Talk to an agent or investor
10. Ask a lawyer
11. Chat with neighbors
12. Knock or leave a note at the door

First, find the address

Before you start searching for ownership details, you need to find the exact address of the property and/or land (aka “real property”). Here are three ways to find it:

1. Go in-person: Most homes and some properties have visible addresses. Take a walk or drive to search for the address yourself. 
2. Online map tools: Programs like Google Maps or Redfin.com make it easy to figure out a property’s address. If you know exactly where the parcel of land is, zoom in on its location and the address should pop up. The satellite view can also give you a better idea of the entire plot’s terrain and features.
3. Parcel maps: If other methods don’t work, your next step is to look at a parcel map. Parcel maps are a great way to identify properties and their boundaries. These detailed maps are often available for free through county assessors’ offices or GIS websites but vary by state and county.

If you’re searching for a specific property (not just a house), you may also need its property identification number (PIN)—also known as a parcel number—which is separate from the address. A PIN is usually located on a property’s tax bill or assessment notice, so going to your county can be a good place to start. Unfortunately, there are 3,143 counties across the 50 U.S. states, many of which use different property identifiers, so the number can be challenging to find. 

Once you have the address (and property number, if needed), you’re ready to start your ownership search.

1. Search online

The easiest way to find out who owns a property or house is to search for the address or property number online. Websites like Whitepages offer reverse searching services, and real estate platforms like Redfin have ownership information at the bottom of most listings in every city (Nashville or Chicago, for example). Keep in mind that information may be incomplete and inaccurate. 

Another option is to go to your county’s website and look for a property that way. Many counties have online portals with all of this information in one easy place. If that doesn’t work or if you’re looking for more details, it’s time to dig a little bit deeper.

2. Check the local tax assessor’s office

A majority of people who own private property must pay property tax on it (usually excluding churches, libraries, schools, and religious buildings, among others). They pay these taxes to their county, which are collected by the county treasurer (often called the collector’s office). The county assessor determines a property’s true and fair value and retains a record of them. 

So, if you’re wondering who owns that property next door, the best place to start is by going to your local tax assessor’s office. Assessors provide free, easy, and comprehensive ownership data for every registered property in their county. You’ll also get to see any special assessments associated with the property, like loans and other financial information. However, the information may be outdated depending on when it was registered. 

Check with your local government office, call their information line, go to your city hall or meeting place, or email the office if you have any questions.

Some properties aren’t listed with tax assessors for numerous reasons—perhaps it’s unregistered land, there was an administrative error, or nobody has ever paid taxes on it. If the county assessor couldn’t help, your next step is to contact the county clerk, sometimes called the register of deeds, recorder of deeds, or recorder’s office.

The county clerk often has a record of property deeds. When you find the deed, it should have the signature of the property owner, as well as the address and contact information. Depending on how long ago the deed was recorded, it may be out of date. 

Most of the time, the information is available online, but this varies by location.

4. Search a registry of deeds

Depending on your area, you may be able to ask and manually search through the local registry of deeds. This is most common in New England and isn’t available everywhere, so contact your county if you have questions. If you look through it yourself, remember that some states have separate registry districts, which adds a layer of complexity. 

5. Visit your local library

Your local public library can be a good place to research property records. Some libraries have old city directories, historical archives, maps, and other materials that list who owned or lived at certain addresses. Librarians can help you find these resources and point you to useful records or databases.

6. Use a title company

If the county can’t help you figure out who owns a property, your next step is to go to a local title company. Title companies are experts at locating property information. They don’t typically become involved with a transaction until the property is under contract to be sold, at which point they search the property’s title and identify any issues with the current owner’s title.

If you’re willing to spend, some companies offer pre-contract searching services for a fee. Check with local title companies to see if they offer such services.

7. Pay for an online service

If you’re committed to buying an abandoned property or empty lot, paid online property search services can be a great option for finding the owner. Many property data tools can pinpoint the current owner and even provide contact details and information about the land registry, so long as you provide the address or even just the owner’s last name. You may also discover any existing liens or debts, which may help guide your next steps. 

However, online services can be expensive and are often complicated and full of jargon. If you take this route, prepare to invest a significant amount of time and money.

8. Consult mailing list brokers

Mailing list brokers are a paid online information-gathering service ideal for bulk information gathering and outreach. Mailing list brokers gather detailed property information for marketing and real estate purposes. If you’re searching for information about one or multiple properties, you can pay to have these services provide ownership and contact details. 

Keep in mind that these services can be expensive and incomplete.

9. Reach out to a real estate agent or real estate investor

Real estate agents or real estate investors may already have access to informational lists you would otherwise have to pay for. If you have a friend or family member who is a real estate agent, consider asking them for a favor. Agents can also provide advice if you’re navigating an online service.

10. Talk to a real estate attorney

If your search is complex—such as dealing with inheritance disputes, title issues, or unregistered land—a real estate attorney may have additional resources or contacts within the county to help you find the owner.

11. Chat with neighbors

Depending on how remote the property or land is, talking with neighbors can be a good way to find out who owns a property. They may know who owns the land, how to reach them, or its history and past owners. Even if they don’t have all the details, they might point you in the right direction.

12. Walk by and leave a note

When all else fails, try knocking on the door of that perfect house or leave a note if nobody is home. You may end up face-to-face with the current owner or talk to someone who knows the owner. If nobody answers, consider leaving a message with your contact information. This tactic probably won’t work if the property is abandoned or doesn’t have a structure on it.

This can be the riskiest and most direct method to find out who owns a property. However, be mindful of privacy; some property owners may be wary of unsolicited inquiries. Avoid being intrusive and always respect boundaries.

Final thoughts

It can be confusing to find out who owns a property, so let’s recap: 

• Most of the time, you can easily find the information by searching online. 
• Many governments have resources that are free and easy to use.
• If simple strategies don’t work, the next step is to contact your county clerk’s office; they often have tax, title, and deed records for as long as the house has been registered. 
• Counties can often be slow to respond to requests. If it’s taking a while, ask a brokerage, title company, or paid online service to find the information you need.

When you search for properties, always be cautious about misinformation and companies that use bad practices. Try not to be intrusive, and talk to the county if you have any questions. If you talk with neighbors or go to the property in person, remember to be kind, courteous, and understanding.

Discovering who owns a property is usually simple and has many advantages. You can guarantee that you’re talking with the legal owner of the property, and you may be able to convince them to sell even if it’s not on the market.

Your house has been dwindling on the market for months, even years, yet nobody wants to bite. What’s going wrong – and more importantly – how can you turn it around?

If your property has been on the market for a long time and you’re just not able to move it, here’s seven things you can do to get out of the rut and get that sold sticker.

1. Refresh your advertising

Most buyers are looking at properties well in advance of purchase. Some research for years. If your listing and promotional details remain unchanged for months on end, your potential buyers will notice – and not notice you as a result.

Shake up your advertising if it’s not working for you as it is.

Photos are one of the most important ways buyers connect with and spark interest in your house. Rotate them around and hero a different shot for people to come across first.

If you had a picture of the inside, try a shot of the facade from the street. Refresh them several times and test the impact on different people, including some you know and trust to give you an honest opinion.

Consider taking new shots if you others aren’t doing the job. If you had an evening shot, try a day time shot. Get help from professionals who know how to accentuate the positive.

Update your property description and try new ways to sell your place to the uninitiated. Work with your agent and be creative in content and approach.

Think carefully about your target market (if you don’t have one, that’s your first problem to solve…)

Try another of our realestate.com.au advertising options. Ask your agent to upgrade you to a featured or premiere listing, or send out a digital brochure.

Premiere properties receive 15 times more views and 8 times more enquiries than a standard ad. You’ll be throwing hard earned money away if you keep paying for an advertising plan that isn’t delivering.

Vary your tactics and when you see results, press your advantage.

2. Change your price

You’ll pay the price if you end up stubbornly attached to one.

The three most important factors in selling a property are location, presentation, and price.

Price points are psychological triggers. One to five thousands dollars in the right direction can spark interest and make a buyer feel a purchase is possible.

In a stagnant or depressed market, price is incredibly sensitive, and can stop an interested buyer from clicking on your listing or lodging that enquiry.

If you’ve had your property listed for some time, the market will have shifted around it. Your price might have started in the ballpark, but now it’s not tenable. Reassess based on comparable properties in todays market terms and re-advertise at a price buyers can confidently respond to.

Put yourself in the shoes of your buyers and be honest about a reasonable cost. Work with your agent and lower that price as much as you need to.

There’s no point clinging to a price dream if your property sits on the market for another year. If you want, or need to sell, then price to sell in the current market (not the market you originally bought in).

3. Take a break from the market

Three things tend to happen if you keep your property on the market for a long time without a break.

Buyers will make a mental note to avoid it, fearing something is wrong because it’s been hanging around so long.

Buyers will use it’s time on market as a negotiating tool, trying to leverage your desperation and arguing that you should be glad for any offer you get.

Or buyers will tune out your property altogether, skimming past it in listings because they’ve seen it so often they’re blind to it.

Three months is often a turning point, when buyers slip comfortably into one of the above scenarios, and you start to get worried.

Though some buyers are on the hunt for a while, each day they’re joined by even more.

If you can afford it, giving your property a rest for a few months means you’ll have a whole new crop of buyers ferreting out their perfect place. They’ll never have met yours, so you’re in with a fresh chance!

4. Give your property a makeover

Get the lowdown from your agent and, if they’re cooperative, buyers who’ve passed on your place. Ask them what turned them off and ask them to be brutally honest. Determine if a refresh is in order.

Ideally you’ll get some specifics that will help you focus any improvements you need to make. It could be the colour of the walls. The lack of decent curb appeal. A garden that feels too high maintenance. A small kitchen. The impression that too much renovation will be needed, or just that the place seemed too messy whenever it was being inspected.

If you haven’t invested in home staging, try it. The professional eye of a stager or stylist can set you up to appeal to your target market, and it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.

Look at low cost, quick facelifts, like a new coat of paint, a better clean up inside, or some attractive plants in the garden.

It might be that a more substantial renovation is needed, and if it will increase your odds of sale and a good price, it’s probably a better alternative than sitting on the market indefinitely.

Weigh up how much you could invest in big improvements and talk to experts about the changes most likely improve your chances of sale. Be careful not to overcapitalise (there are no guarantees), and remember that even a small effort could yield the return you’re looking for.

5. Go comparison shopping

You may have done a ton of homework on selling your house, but forgot to scope out the competition.

• Work with your agent to get a handle on how your place measures up against similar properties in the area; in architecture and style, price, size, bedroom and bathroom numbers, land and yard area, proximity to amenities, quality of interiors, style of presentation, and everything in between.
• Attend open inspections and auctions. Talk to other buyers at those homes and gather insights.
• Don’t just compare the property itself. Have a snoop at how those homes are bring presented, how their open inspections are being run, whether they’re being sold at auction or by private treaty, and anything else that jumps out at you. See what’s popular and what people are talking about.
• Comparing doesn’t mean making your property conform to everyone else’s. It’s about getting in touch with the reality of the market in your area and price bracket. It’s staying abreast of trends or contexts that might impact your sale.
• And it’s being able to ask a price you can justify. When you can compare apples with apples, you’re ready to set up shop.

6. Be open to advice

If your property has been languishing on the market for some time, you’ve probably already asked for help. You’ve checked with your agent, or asked family or friends about why they think your place isn’t hooking a new owner.

But you might not be listening, especially if they’re telling you things you might not want to hear.

Ask for advice (if you haven’t yet, now’s the time), and truly be open to it; from your agent, from property experts, from potential buyers and those you trust.

You might not be listening, especially if they’re telling you things you might not want to hear.

Steel yourself for a reality check and commit to taking on constructive suggestions.

7. Don’t lay blame (especially on yourself)

It’s easy to point fingers if your property isn’t living up to expectations. Selling can be highly stressful, and if you’re in a tricky financial spot (e.g. you’ve already purchased another property and are feeling the pressure to sell in a hurry), the tension can be crippling.

Like any stressful situation, getting upset or angry won’t help.

Even if you decide you need to move to a new real estate agent, don’t leave with a grudge or you won’t be fully focused on the new chance to sell your home. An agent and vendor relationship is a two way street and you two may just not have worked as a partnership.

Refocus, take a breath, then re-arm with any new tools or support you need to get back out there.

Taking a break from the market helps get you back on track and stop blame in its tracks.

Stay positive and you’re half way there. Maybe you honestly weren’t ready to sell.

Refocus, take a breath, then re-arm with any new tools or support you need to get back out there. There might only be some small changes to your home and your strategy standing in the way of you and the finish line.

This article was originally published on
12 Nov 2012 at 8:57am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

A prominent commercial property has hit the market on one of Adelaide’s most popular beachside shopping strips, which is in the final stages of a controversial revamp.

The multistorey Glenelg property at 115–123 Jetty Rd is on a 1346sqm block with dual frontage, about 500m from Moseley Square and the beach.

Generating a stable net income of $581,086 per year, it has several tenants, including Harris Real Estate, Anytime Fitness, The Salvation Army and Amplified Accounting.

It has a 34-space rooftop car park but could be further developed, with its zoning allowing for up to six levels.

The property hits the market as Holdfast Bay council’s multimillion-dollar redevelopment of Glenelg’s premier strip is due to be finished in the second half of 2026.

115-123 Jetty Rd, Glenelg.

115-123 Jetty Rd, Glenelg.

The Transforming Jetty Road Glenelg project started in August last year, closed the road to vehicle traffic and carparking until the end of the year, and shrunk its pedestrian walkways as workers laid more than 76,000 new pavers and 1726 tonnes asphalt.

While major construction work was fast tracked to align with the temporary suspension of tram services as part of the State Government’s Tram Grade Separation Project, many businesses struggled through the period, with some even closing.

Despite the issues on the strip, the commercial building is expected to be a lucrative investment as population growth and infill housing continue to drive demand for well-located retail and office space.

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Recent sales at Norwood and Goodwood highlight strong investor demand for high street properties, with both selling on yields of 3.85 per cent and 3.82 per cent respectively.

JLL SA managing director Ben Parkinson, who is selling the Glenelg property, said investor demand for high street assets was continuing to strengthen as residential density increased across Adelaide’s inner-suburban corridors.

“What we’re seeing on The Parade, and expect on Jetty Road, is the same story: high street property with the right catchment is pricing sharper than ever, whether that’s the ground-floor retail or the office space above it,” said Mr Parkinson, who is selling the property with Tom Love.

115-123 Jetty Rd, Glenelg.

115-123 Jetty Rd, Glenelg.

“As more apartment projects land on these strips, the space beneath and around them becomes harder to replace and more tightly held.”

Glenelg’s Jetty Rd is benefiting from more residents moving into surrounding areas, strong hospitality demand and increasing amenity.

Mr Love said population growth and residential densification were reshaping Adelaide’s high street investment markets.

“Population growth is always a catalyst for innovation, infrastructure and ultimately liveability,” Mr Love said.

“It creates inner-suburban density, village vibrancy, higher suburban amenity, and momentum for public transport, walking and cycling corridors, which all flow directly into demand for the retail, office and hospitality tenancies on those high streets.”

“Investors are backing high streets, across both office and retail because the population growth underpinning them is stable.”

Expressions of interest for the property close on October 1.

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Could 2018 be your year? The year you finally crack the property market? 

Market trends and property data will only get you so far; first you need to be in a position to part with the cash.

Paul Thomas, CEO of Gateway Bank, shares how high-interest savings accounts, paying down your debt and obtaining a good credit score could help you get into property numero uno before the year’s out.

Let’s approach this step by step.

Step #1: Pay down your debt

Let’s be real, if you’re saddled with debt it’s unlikely you’re going to be able to save for a home.

Paul says reducing any debt – from personal loans to those you incur on your credit card – can help you in more ways than one before purchasing a home.

“It puts you in a better position as a borrower when you apply for a home loan,” he says. “Lenders will assess you on a range of factors, and your debt level is one of these.”

“The less debt you have, the more cash flow you’ll also have to put towards mortgage repayments. It’s simple: The less debt you have, the better position you’ll be in financially.”

Thinking about the dream home won’t bring it any closer – that starts with saving. Picture: realestate.com.au

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Step #2: Budget to save

When saving for a deposit, it’s crucial to not only pay down your debt but to have a regular savings plan, Paul explains.

“Saving a deposit doesn’t happen by accident – you have to be organised and consistent,” he says.

The first step is to analyse your finances and work out a budget.

“A budget should help you identify where your money goes in any given month and where you can make small cost-cutting measures,” Paul says.

“This will also allow you to have a realistic idea of how much you can put away every week,” he adds.

Step #3: Fast-track your savings

Debt-free and fancy free? Not a chance.

Once your hard-earned is going into your bank account – not your credit card – it might be tempting to spread your wings a bit.

Well rein it in, because it’s actually a much better time to start building up your genuine savings.

Opening up a term deposit could help you lockdown your savings. Picture: Getty

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You might have heard the terms ‘high-interest savings account’ and ‘term deposit’ float around before, but how can these actually help you?

“High-interest savings accounts and term deposits are intended to boost your savings by offering interest on the money you hold in them,” Paul says.

“Unlike an everyday transactional account, these products generally have no account-keeping fees.

“A term deposit also provides the added benefit of locking your savings away for a specified term, which means you’re less tempted to dip into your savings for impulse purchases.”

If you’re looking to build a deposit for a home, these types of products could provide a huge helping hand. Essentially, they make your money work harder by earning interest on your savings, helping you to boost your savings more quickly.

If you’re not confident you’ll remember to regularly deposit money into your new savings account, Paul says you could look into setting up a direct debit from your everyday account to your savings account.

Step #4: Check your credit score

What the heck is a credit score, we hear you ask?

Essentially, it’s a number that is calculated based on the information in your credit reports that lenders will use to determine your reputation as a borrower. The higher your score, the more attractive you could seem to potential home lenders when applying for a loan.

It’s easy to check your credit score online. Picture: Getty

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“Lenders may use this information to decide if lending you money [to buy a home] is worth the risk,” Paul says.

“Things like the type and size of credit you request on your loan applications; paying your bills on time; not applying for too many credit cards; paying off outstanding loans and credit card debt; or your employment history can all impact your overall credit score,” he says.

If you haven’t ever looked up your credit score, now is the perfect time to do it.

You’re entitled to one free copy of your credit report every 12 months from each of the three nationwide credit reporting companies, such as Equifax, Dun and Bradstreet and Experian.

If the number comes back high – congratulations. You’re one step closer to that #dreamhome.

Have a read of Gateway’s free First Home Buyer’s Guide for more tips.

This article was originally published on
29 Jan 2018 at 9:00am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

Are you renting a place you love, but also looking to purchase your first home? Why not buy your rental property – even if it’s not on the market?

While it may seem counterintuitive to contemplate buying a property that’s not technically for sale, an increasing number of tenants across Australia are doing exactly that and approaching their landlords through agents.

LJ Hooker’s head of property investment management Amy Sanderson says the phenomenon of renting to own is real. “It doesn’t happen every day, but it does happen,” she says.

Sanderson says such bold “tenant-turned-buyers” generally fall into two categories: tenants who have been renting a property for a very long time and are finally ready to buy, yet don’t want the risk of having to move; and potential buyers who move into a rental to ‘try’ a new area and end up falling in love with the property they are in.

“For these tenants, purchasing makes sense,” she says.

If you love living where you rent and are ready to buy, why not make an offer to your landlord? Picture: Getty

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But how can it be done? Sanderson says it comes down to research and realism.

“Research, research, research!” she says. “Go onto realestate.com.au and search for properties with a similar description to yours and go and view these properties to get a feel for what the real comparisons are.”

Then, keep an eye on what properties sell for and record it.

Research the market to get a true sense of what the property is worth. Picture: Getty

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“Compare these properties to yours and determine what you believe market value is. If you pay over the odds for a property because you want to secure it, you want that to be your conscious decision, not because you didn’t know,” Sanderson says.

Armed with market intel and an offer, reach out to the owner, though the property manager.

“I would suggest putting your offer in writing, so your message is clear and not misconstrued. Discuss that you like the property, what else has recently sold, how this property compares and your price you have come up with,” she says.

It’s also a good idea to “educate yourself on the cost and process” of selling a property, so there’s no surprises, Sanderson says.

“Where an owner sells direct to a tenant, they may save on some of these costs – and stresses – involved, meaning you might be able to negotiate a price that accommodates this saving for both of you.”

Whether a landlord will sell depends on personal circumstance, Sanderson explains.

“People buy an investment property to make money, so for someone to consider selling, they need to feel they have made a return on their investment. The tricky part is, everyone’s view on what an adequate return looks like is different.”

This article was originally published on
8 Feb 2018 at 4:32pm
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

The last few years seem have seen the market falling and many cautious homeowners have seemingly been put off selling their properties, waiting until the market picks up again so they can secure a higher sale price.

But waiting for the market may not always be the best option. If your property is a little run down and needs work, then keeping it in the condition it’s in and waiting to sell could do more harm than good, especially in a developing, up and coming suburb.

Is it worth waiting?

If your home’s getting too difficult to maintain, or is seemingly too expensive to renovate, it might be time to consider selling sooner, rather than later.

RPData reports have been showing modest gains in most capital cities, so the worst, it seems, is behind us. There are some gains to be had as prices recover and there are certainly still some bargains to be had for those looking to buy away from CBD across the nation.

Aside from financial gains and avoided losses, there are personal perspectives which come into play when you’re looking to sell which can be key to your decision; to quote US blogger and realtor Rodney Camren, these are “your living needs; the condition of the home; your neighbourhood; and your community.”

Although speaking about the American property market, Mr Camren has some good points.

Your living needs

This  is about assessing whether the home is fit for purpose.

You may want a bigger space now the kids have come along or perhaps even downsize if they have moved out and you’re heading into your retirement years. It is also possible you need to consider a granny flat for an older parent, or now have a dog and need a yard. In some sadder instances a family breakup might necessitate the need to downsize.

“We thought our home was absolutely fine when we moved in with little kids,” says Peta Jones from the North Western Sydney, NSW.

“We were careful to plan for a rumpus room and their own rooms. But now they have hobbies, and we have a full sized piano taking up half the rumpus room; their wardrobes are overflowing and there’s only one toilet and bathroom in the house resulting in a queue at peak times.”

Conversely Pamela Matheson from Mudgee, NSW is finding her space more difficult to manage, “We still love the open space and have room for our animals, but as we approach our seventies, maintaining 75 acres is becoming more of a chore than a pleasure.”

Condition of the home

Pamela goes on to say, “There was a time we thought nothing of carrying out maintenance ourselves, but now we have retired and income is limited, and physically it has become more cumbersome to make repairs and keep it up to date”.

Your neighbourhood

This is an important factor, both in terms of its curb appeal and appearance, but also in terms of the demographic of people and the atmosphere. It could be that neighbouring houses are being bought up by younger families and you are an empty nester looking for a different pace of life, (or vice versa), or there is an increase in high density housing, taking away from the community feel.

Are neighbouring houses are being bought up by younger families, while you’re an empty nester?

Perhaps people no longer care for their gardens and it’s looking a bit rundown and ramshackle. In many cases one or two people in a community can completely change the atmosphere.

Community

Community is an extremely important factor.

It’s important your local community offers what you need for your life, whether that is job opportunities, schools for the kids, aged care facilities, doctors and healthcare and general infrastructure.

Fiona Digges from the Hawkesbury region says: “When we first bought our home we found great pre-schools and primary schools but as the children get older, we are panicking about the lack of decent public high schools and the sheer distance from any private schools.

Coupled with that, there’s a tonne of development going on and no provision to upgrade infrastructure like roads or public transport. We are seriously looking at moving away from the area now.”

In many cases, the decision to stay or go can be based on the factors which can’t be changed, in many cases they can be changed but emotions can get in the way, but either way, if  you find you are struggling with any of these areas, it might be time to consider selling up and moving on.

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This article was originally published on
19 Sep 2013 at 11:46am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

There comes a time in many people’s lives when you start to weigh up how big your home really needs to be.

The kids have probably moved out, there are extra rooms and unused space everywhere, and you just don’t have the same requirements that you once did.

It sounds like you’re ready to downsize your home. But as a downsizer, how do you choose the best property for you?

Here are some key factors you should consider.

There are many benefits to downsizing your home if you choose the right property for your needs. Picture: Getty

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Are you a senior downsizing? Stick with single-level

Woodards agent Nelson Machuca says most downsizers prefer homes that are based exclusively on one level, to avoid them having to walk up and down stairs as they get older.

“The ones that we find are most popular for that demographic are properties that are all at ground level,” Machuca says.

“They (homes) don’t have any staircases or anything like that. If they do have staircases or that type of scenario, then look for the properties that have the main bedroom downstairs with an ensuite. They’ll probably sacrifice the first level, or rarely ever use it, but they often like to have it for when people visit.”

To future-proof your mobility in the home, narrow your search to single-level homes. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

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Small enough to maintain, big enough to entertain

Dinners with friends, family gatherings and other social occasions are all important to many downsizers, so choosing a house that has large entertaining areas, and room for family and grandchildren to sleep, is important.

“They want a nice kitchen where they can entertain,” Machuca says.

“A lot of these people, even though they’re downsizing, they’re still having friends and family coming and staying with them, so ideally speaking they’re still looking for a three-bedroom home but in a much more compact block. So no big backyard or anything like that – very easy to maintain.”

Double down on garaging

A large garage is important for most downsizers for a couple of reasons, Machuca says.

Firstly, the majority of downsizing couples will have two cars. And secondly, a garage provides additional storage space.

“A double garage is certainly a necessity for a lot of those people,” he says.

“They’re still perhaps both driving, and it provides security and gives them more storage, which is important when they’re downsizing.”

A double garage with ample storage space is essential for many downsizers. Picture: Getty

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Adequate internal space

Just because you’re downsizing your home, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’re prepared to part with a large number of your possessions.

Machuca says that if you’re smart with your property selection, you’ll find a home that will accommodate most of your former house’s contents.

“One thing that’s often extremely important for them is the current furniture that they have, and whether it’s going to fit into the standard of property that they’re going to be moving into,” he says.

“A lot of them will try and keep the heirlooms and furniture that they have, so they’ll look for a home that is substantially big enough to maintain their main pieces of furniture.”

Downsizing doesn’t necessarily include your belongings, so ensure that your new living areas are large enough to house them. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

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A familiar location

Unless they’re chasing a dramatic sea change or a lifestyle switch, the majority of downsizers are looking for a home somewhere close by to their current location, Machuca says.

“A lot of people have spent their entire life there, so they don’t want to go too far from where they are.”

“From a financial point of view that also makes a lot of sense, because if they’re downsizing home in the same suburb or area that they’re currently living in, it’s going to be a pretty straightforward transaction and they’re going to end up with some money in their pocket.”

Search tool: Discover new homes, house and land packages in Australia.

This article was originally published on
9 Feb 2018 at 2:27pm
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

Choosing a home to rent is rarely easy. First, you need to find one that fits your budget and lifestyle. And then there’s the small matter of negotiating a suffocatingly busy open for inspection. 

Pause to consider how little time each inspection gives you to look around a property, too, and you begin to understand just how difficult the search for a suitable rental can be.

But that’s just how it is. Which is why we came up with this simple checklist of things to look for in a rental property, before signing the lease.

Make sure you don’t overlook the basics during a rental inspection.

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1. Assess the security

Have a look for deadlocks, window locks and other security features. The level of security can make a huge impact on the cost of your insurance.

Before the inspection, make sure to check with your insurance company what security features would impact your policy, so that you know exactly what to look out for while you’re there.

Essentials: What first time renters need to know

2. Look for storage options

Storage can be expensive to buy – especially if, later on, you move to a home that doesn’t need it.

While walking around your potential new rental, look for places where you would store your bike, snowboard, or book collection, and ask yourself, “is there enough internal and external storage for all my important items?”

Also think about whether there is enough pantry space, linen space and areas to store cumbersome cleaning items such as brooms and vacuum cleaners.

Make sure that the property has enough storage to meet your needs. Picture: Kim Oliver/Inside Room

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3. Check overall cleanliness

A lot of rental properties will likely be leased out in the same condition in which you inspect them.

So, if there’s lots of junk in the shed, and the garden needs weeding, ask the agent if these issues will be addressed before the move-in date.

4. Find out about heating

Ask the agent what heating and cooling systems the property has, find out the specific rooms in which these technologies are available, and make sure that they all work.

Should you detect an issue, enquire if and when it will be addressed.

5. Measure the space

Don’t be afraid to whip out a tape measure at the open for inspection, as this is the best way to work out if your prized dining table and antique bed can fit through the door of your potential new home.

Use a measuring tape to make sure there’s enough space for your favourite pieces of furniture.

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6. Check the positions of power points

The location of the television antenna, power points, telephone and Foxtel outlets will likely impact how you can lay out your home.

So, make sure that you’re happy with their positioning.

7. Check there’s enough room for white goods

Check that there is space in the kitchen for your fridge, for your dishwasher, and for any other appliances that you like to set out on the bench.

See if your washing machine and dryer will fit in the laundry, too, or enquire if they come with the property. If you like to drip dry your clothes, work out whether the laundry provides enough space for that.

8. Don’t forget the garden

Ask whether the apartment or house comes with a gardener. If it doesn’t, have a look in the garden to see what kind of maintenance it requires.

If you happen to have a green thumb and want to set up a veggie garden, ask if you would be able to do that, too.

Don’t forget to inspect the property’s garden. If it’s an apartment, ask whether a gardener is included in the rent. Picture: realestate.com.au/buy

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9. Ask about gas and electricity

Do you prefer gas or electricity?

This really is a personal choice. Some people prefer gas cooking, while others prefer induction hobs.

Whichever your preference, make sure you find out what’s available.

Other things to consider

• Does the property have roller doors or shutters? Check whether they are electronic or manual.

• If the property comes with car parking, find out exactly how many spaces. If it doesn’t, look at the local parking signage to work out whether you’d need a permit.
• If in doubt about anything, ask the agent. Avoid making assumptions, as this may lead to headaches later on.

This article was originally published on
19 Aug 2019 at 9:00am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.

Like many firsts in life, landing your first rental lease can be challenging.

Landlords use rental histories to find the most reliable tenant for their home, which means first-time renters are at a disadvantage when it comes to securing a property – especially when there’s lots of competition for a home and all the other applicants have rental histories.

So what can you do to get a rental lease if you’ve never had one before?

Finding a rental can be challenging.

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Fortunately, supplying a clean rental history is far from the only way to prove your reliability, explains Julie Tagg, property manager of Paul Flynn Property Group in Queensland.

Here are her five top tips to help you secure your first lease:

1. Find a guarantor

Above all else, landlords want to make sure that you’ll pay your rent on time.

One of the easiest ways to give them peace of mind is to find a guarantor – someone who can support your application and promise to pay your rental payments should you fail to meet them.

“Young people in particular may get a guarantor – parents or a family member – to back their application, which gives a guarantee the rent will be paid on time,” says Tagg.

“Income may be tight and offering a guarantor can give young people that all-important start in the rental market.

“Remember, once you have six months on your rental record, you are on your way.”

2. Set up a direct debit

Many rental offices will insist on tenants using a direct debit payment system for rent. But, even if it isn’t required, it helps to offer it as part of your rental application.

It shows that you’re committed to paying your rent on time, which, again, is one of the most important competencies when it comes to renters. 

If some or all of your income comes from Centrelink, remember you can use its Centrepay automatic payment system.

This makes direct rent deductions from your social security payments and pays them to your private rental agency.

“We use that quite a lot with tenants and it works very well,” Tagg says.

Offer to set up a direct debit payment system to show commitment to paying rent on time.

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Apply for multiple rental properties with one application form using 1Form

3. Show proof of regular payments

Have you ever bought an appliance or electrical good with a finance contract? If so, showing your property manager proof of regular payments will go a long way towards proving your financial trustworthiness.

Any statement that shows a record of regular payments – even if it is not a rental situation – can help your case, says Tagg.

“What we need to show our property owners in prospective tenants’ applications is consistency and commitment.”

4. Provide evidence of your income

Tagg confirms income is a big one for first-time tenants. And the best way to prove you earn enough to service your rental payments is to ask your employer for a letter of reference.

The letter should include your exact salary, how long you’ve been working at the company and, ideally, a few sentences that suggest you’re doing well and unlikely to be laid off anytime soon.

If you’re a freelancer, you’ll need to provide as much information as possible about where your income comes from and how often you get paid.

If your grandparents send you $20 a week to “buy yourself a little treat,” put it on the application. Every little bit helps to prove you’re in the financial position to pay your rent on time.

To work out if you’re in the right financial position, similar to how banks work out if you can service a home loan, property managers use a 30% formula when deciding if you can afford a rental home.

In a nutshell, if rent is $300 per week, you’ll need to show regular net income of $1,000 per week ($300 = 30% of $1,000).

If you only earn $900 net income per week, you may struggle to get the lease.

However, Tagg says there are always exceptions, and if you can show exactly how you spend your money in a typical week, it may get you over the line. 

“In the end, it’s up to the prospective tenant to be proactive and prove their case to us,” says Tagg.

“As an industry, we follow general rules when assessing an applicant’s ability to pay the rent, but if you can prove [that] you spend less than [the] average [person], exceptions [can be made].”

Essentially, the harder you try to prove your trustworthiness, the more likely you to are secure a lease.

Search our rent section to find your perfect place

This article was originally published on
22 Aug 2019 at 9:00am
but has been regularly updated to keep the information current.