Is the new HomeBuilder grant scheme enough? IN THE AFTERMATH of COVID-19, things are changing all the time, including restrictions and the impact these are having on a range of industries, including property. So far the property market seems to be holding up pretty well, with minimal falls in values. But it’s a different story […]
THE FEDERAL Government has made a very significant change to capital gains tax (CGT) affecting ex pats, but it’s likely there are many Australians living overseas who are still completely in the dark about it. Put simply, the change entails the CGT exemption for the Australian family home, which has been in existence for 35 […]
WHAT A rollercoaster the past year has been for property! We saw a lacklustre start to 2019 largely due to apprehension around last year’s Federal Election and particularly proposed housing-related tax policies from the ALP. Activity was also subdued due to the fallout from the Banking Royal Commission and tightened lending restrictions imposed by the […]
Since our beginning, well over 40 years ago now, Washington Brown has always placed as much importance on achieving the maximum ATO-Compliant deductions for our clients as we have on ensuring the highest levels of Customer Service and Satisfaction. With these aspects being at the core of the business’ values, we are understandably both proud […]
LATELY I’ve noticed a few news articles about developer incentives being offered in various markets around Australia. I’m sure many of you would have seen the headlines. In Brisbane, the developer behind a luxury apartment project in West End is offering buyers a car – a Toyota Yaris hatchback. Another townhouse development in Corinda, in […]
The depreciation party is over… Well, kind of! In an attempt to “reduce pressure on housing affordability” the Government has announced dramatic changes to the way depreciation is claimed on property. Let’s start with the good news: 1. Any existing investment properties purchased (contract exchange date) prior to May 9 2017 are not affected (unless they […]
Using super to buy a home… Is this the dumbest idea ever? Recently I discussed the suggestion from various politicians including Barnaby Joyce that buyers trying to break into the market look to more affordable areas. The idea that currently has momentum, however, is allowing first home buyers to access their superannuation (super) early to […]
Every investor – whether expert or amateur – should be looking for the same things in a property investment to ensure its success. While there is no exact formula for buying a successful investment, it’s handy to have a checklist to consult to make sure you’re on the right track. Below are some of the […]
While a property investor’s major goal is likely to be capital growth, they’ll also be looking for solid rental yields to help them hold onto their asset. To achieve the best possible rental return, you’ll need to maximise the appeal of your property to potential tenants. But what do tenants want? Generally they’ll want a […]
They’re suave, they’re slick and above all, they’re convincing, with their sales pitch down pat. Who are they? Property spruikers. Unfortunately in Australia’s largely unregulated property advisory market spruikers – masquerading as experts – can flourish and their unsuspecting victims stand to lose a lot of money. How can you avoid being preyed upon? We’ve […]
