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Time for a Tree or Sea Change?
Since March 2020, we have seen a giant shift in how we work, commute, and live due to stay at home government restrictions. As these restrictions adjust and vary around the country, many of us have found we can still do our jobs well, if not better, from home – and are enjoying the change, as well as the opportunities that have come from working where we live. This raises the logical question: If you can now work from home, shouldn’t you make your home as liveable as possible? And, if so, why not move to the best place possible to live well? Australia is indeed the lucky country. We…
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How to sell your house in the Covid-19 environment
Timing is everything – as they say – and for those selling, or about to sell their houses, earlier this year the COVID-19 pandemic raised a unique set of challenges. Should you keep it on the market, or take a break and wait until later in the year? If you choose to sell now, open homes and auctions are allowed so at least that part is easy. Of course, the most important question is, ‘if you sell now, will you get the price you’re looking for?’ In March everyone’s head was abuzz with such questions. Now, as we approach mid-year, many of those questions have been answered and there is…
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Time to carry out Winter Property Maintenance
When the winter months come around, it’s often tempting to hibernate and wait for the temperature to start rising again. However, there are plenty of maintenance tasks you can be getting on with to keep your home in top condition and less likely to suffer any problems. Clear your guttering One area of the home that often gets neglected is the guttering. While it might not be the most attractive of tasks, clearing it of leaves and debris is essential. Your guttering is, after all, what takes water away from your home, so it’s highly important that it’s in full working order all year round. Have air conditioning units serviced…
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EOFY: Big Ticket Items You Should be Claiming on Your Investment Property
Tax time is nearly here again. If you own a property as an investor, you might already be thinking about preparing for the end of the financial year. The good news is there are many ways to reduce annual amounts, and deductions can sometimes be the difference between your investment having a positive or negative cash flow. Here’s a list of the key deductions you should be considering, or at the very least asking your accountant about. Rental advertising: Regardless of whether you’re finding a first tenant or re-letting, the costs associated with online advertising, print media, flyers and brochures, or a sign can be claimed against property income in the…
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KITCHEN RENO’S ON A BUDGET
The kitchen is the heart and soul of any home. It’s where we come together each night to talk about our day, cook a meal for the family and be the centerpiece of entertaining friends, so it's no surprise that a kitchen is the most renovated space in Australia. In most cases, your kitchen and bathrooms will be the most expensive part of a new build or renovation process. Kitchens can start from as little as $15,000 and go upwards from there. I remember when I built my first home in Indooroopilly and I nearly fell off my chair when the kitchen quote came in at $20,000, I’ve realised over…