https://www.propertyinvesting.com/members/geraldinem/activity/ Activity feed for GeraldineM. Mon, 13 Apr 2026 05:43:41 +0000 https://buddypress.org/?v=2.8.1 en-US 30 hourly 2 d8bfda29b47212866066c77826f91a15 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4402609-port-lincoln/#post-4640674 Thu, 02 Jun 2011 20:21:28 +0000 Hi Steve.I just came across your question as we have offered on a property in Port Lincoln on large land, etc.My partner has family over there so I have been watching the area off and on over the last 20+ years.My feeling is that there is currently a sense of vitality in the town, with Coles and Woolworths doingbig expansions.  The hospital has…[Read more]

]]> 7bf81e4f1ec715121adeced27e928032 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4401285-margaret-lomas-books/#post-4632403 Fri, 24 Sep 2010 05:43:48 +0000 Hi.  I am glad you have found your way to Margaret Lomas' books.  I have found them to be very practical for the average person.I am not sure how to go about sharing a barcode though.  If you can tell me how to do it I'll share with you gladly.Regards, GPS Thanks Yannick, I just downloaded the book you mentioned above!!

]]> 9dd1311e65129cc7f3b64670ad0622d9 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400348-renovating-the-front-block-and-building-on-the-back-block/#post-4626899 Thu, 16 Sep 2010 06:34:08 +0000 Hi.I could talk to the duty planning officer at the relevant council, to double-check that the size of block can fit the two units/homettes on it.  A large surveying company can be useful, as they tend to know the council rules, plus can advise about sewerage connections/levels etc. which can be an issue on some sites.  Also determine the c…[Read more]

]]> f7ba86b1545237691a55a22c52a8fd59 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400508-investing-for-teenage-daughter/#post-4627780 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 02:32:28 +0000 Hi Novice,I think your daughter is very lucky to have a parent like you who is keen to set her on a profitable path.  Another benefit of property is that your daughter probably won't be as tempted to tap into her inheritance, as say, a share portfolio.I agree with others who've warned against serviced apartments, for all the reasons mentioned,…[Read more]

]]> 5068e37a0f4786ae6100c6c8a6358dc8 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400226-renovating-from-a-distance/#post-4625993 Sun, 11 Jul 2010 02:16:57 +0000 Hi Lesia,I think you will definately need a sense of humor and perspective, as things are bound to go wrong.  Its human nature that some tradespeople will go off the rails when you are not around – they do that to you when you are right there in the same city.  I think regular trips down, and possibly bonus payments for work completed to date c…[Read more]

]]> dae31eb2244db3920d739962e94f49e0 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400463-novice-needing-help/#post-4627544 Mon, 05 Jul 2010 21:38:44 +0000 Hi rockdaggioh22aI'd agree you definately need to see the banks/mortgage brokers to get your finances in place for the apartments.Assuming you need twenty percent deposits on the completed valuation, you will need to set aside half your $400,000for that purpose.That still leaves you with the other half.  I agree you need to diversify, and it…[Read more]

]]> cb7aa837ca7667fbc2d9d31d635760de https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399627-how-to-buyout-your-neighbours-block/#post-4622811 Tue, 29 Jun 2010 08:12:57 +0000 Hi Koiking.It might be possible to buy just enough land from your neighbour, at a reasonable cost to you, by having the boundariesrealigned.  Basically you would be buying some of the adjacent property, while both of you retain your titles.  I'd enquirewith the local council before contacting the owners directly.Regards,G

]]> be19654608a49fb3d650b3f66c8d1e36 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4385645-is-the-investors-club-for-real/page/2/#post-4548081 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 12:03:51 +0000 Hi all.My humble dealings with TIC have been attending a few meetings, receiving their regular newsletter and getting a financial evaluation a couple of times.  We also used one of their loans brokers to borrow money for an independent development project. (Wish we hadn't actually as Challenge Bank not that competitive at the moment).I have a few…[Read more]

]]> 66caccd39b91588f6f630ade6da4955f https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400145-first-investment-dilemma/#post-4625535 Thu, 10 Jun 2010 11:20:26 +0000 Hi.I am sorry to hear about your situation, as you are obviously trying to be really sensible by offsetting costs with boarders,but I know this can be a nightmare in reality!  Well done though in having started so well as an independent young woman.Here are some options that sprang to mind:1.  Terminate boarders and start again with new ones.  2.…[Read more]

]]> 8d5dbe4ddcd8780b7cfbf199bd885a2b https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400106-how-do-you-buy-the-house-of-your-dreams/#post-4625360 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 10:37:16 +0000 Hi all.This is a great line of discussion as I can remember wondering the same thing, about twenty years ago, and if I had looked through a crystal ball and seen where I'd be in that twenty years ahead, I think I would have been very pleased.  My advice is to buy something you can afford and that has potential of some sort (renovate, subdivide,…[Read more]

]]> c1382a93cf0631eb9ad46f71ea923536 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400087-ip-did-we-leave-it-for-too-long/#post-4625179 Tue, 01 Jun 2010 00:47:27 +0000 Re. the superannuation contributions,It is essential to bear in mind what $745,000 will be worth in 15 years – not what it is worth now obviously.For example, looking back to 1995, you could buy my previous house in Mount Hurtle, Woodcroft, Adelaide forabout $130,000, but now it is worth around $450,000.  Hence the spending power of $750,000…[Read more]

]]> 5a3a5ca5d0b60b73dad9946d2d328eb6 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400074-new-to-property-investing-5/#post-4625081 Mon, 31 May 2010 10:28:28 +0000 Hi Chris.I'm not familiar with the area, but I'd check the population trends (should be stable, but better to be growing) and talk to a couple of property managers to see if there is 1. good rental demand,  2.  a reasonable type of tenant, and  3. double check the rent you have been quoted to make sure it is achievable.  The nearest council web…[Read more]

]]> 5a3607db8e58c2e7956afa8145d8a656 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4374439-sharing-tips/page/5/#post-4479136 Mon, 31 May 2010 10:15:55 +0000 Tips -1..  It the goal is to BE rich, you can't afford to be focusing on LOOKING rich.2..  Treat tenants as YOU would like to be treated.3..  Buy in areas that have more than one type of appeal – e.g. beach-side living, retirement destination.4..  Build/buy properties that target smaller families – its the future.5..  Its the land that ulti…[Read more]

]]> e490173a1895201b5507e078fcc2c1b8 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4391138-student-accommodation-3/#post-4575799 Mon, 31 May 2010 09:14:51 +0000 Hi Daniko.I have thought about large houses which could be used as student accommodation, but realized I would need to put in a lot of time to manage it.  This leads me to think that you could actually approach property owners with a business proposition.  Show them how much more they could get if you were running it for them as a student b…[Read more]

]]> a14e1b597c9802a1f956c6a29342ce2b https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400097-opinions-on-purchasing-hotel-apartments/#post-4625317 Mon, 31 May 2010 08:51:21 +0000 Hi there.Dwolfe has given you some good tips.  I will try to add a little from my own investigations (we've all looked into this type of investment!).  Basically as mentioned, they are managed by an organisation (hotel group, retirement village, university accommodation company, etc. etc.) and they take their profit before you get paid.  This is…[Read more]

]]> bb9038fcfb71303be08925551092c40a https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400087-ip-did-we-leave-it-for-too-long/#post-4625176 Mon, 31 May 2010 08:28:38 +0000 Hi Losty.If you think you might need support to get on, and keep on the path, you could investigate Margaret Lomas's company Destiny Financial Solutions. I am not a member myself, but did look into it.  Basically she believes in lower priced, positively geared property which will need less of a financial commitment from you, and could (with…[Read more]

]]> 34398ba11a77d6c6ed6d74df220e8ca2 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4400053-interest-rate-rises-and-rental-income/#post-4624999 Thu, 27 May 2010 08:19:54 +0000 Hi Andrew.In answer to your question about any up side to interest rate rises, my understanding is that any foreclosures thatresult from mortgage stress will mean more people renting.  Also more people tend to hold off buying when ratesare higher (creating that pent up demand you hear about when the government introduces help for first home…[Read more]

]]> 1d974bf91f38c140dfbf496610fd0744 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399889-adelaide-helpful-real-estate-agent-lists/#post-4624256 Fri, 14 May 2010 07:00:59 +0000 Oops,I meant buyers market, sorry!  G

]]> 2c884f3d885c465fd75eadbe3dfd2f32 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399846-equity-but-no-cash-any-ideas-on-investing/#post-4623985 Fri, 14 May 2010 06:18:01 +0000 Hi Toyah.I like the advice above.  We are currently one one wage too and I've outlined a strategy for us that involves selling one half of property we previously developed to enable us to leapfrog on to the next development project.  I don't want to sell either but I think divide to multiply can be the best strategy at times to improve cash flow a…[Read more]

]]> f70fc60c557ce775b21f7afa6f3c7b13 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399883-anyone-done-a-land-release/#post-4624234 Thu, 13 May 2010 11:27:47 +0000 Hi D.I haven't done a large subdivision personally, only small ones.  I have heard the figure of $45,000 per blockdiscussed, which presumably includes subdivision costs, services and road.  I will be interested to hear what more experienced people say.G

]]> 2802c327badc64cf49d58c57086c2f5c https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399498-selling-a-tenanted-property/#post-4621968 Thu, 13 May 2010 11:20:12 +0000 Hi again Karen and Kate.Re tenant obligations to open for inspections, I realize this is the case, with appropriate notice.  However I have personally inspected places with dirty undies on the floor and old cat food out etc.  It can also be off-putting to have a sullen tenant sitting watching TV during an inspection, or an angry dog on a chain b…[Read more]

]]> 78dec28acbba607f954c570b4879ed2c https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399872-future-prospects/#post-4624177 Thu, 13 May 2010 00:32:00 +0000 Oh one more thing James.If you buy a place of your own and pay it off, it won't be tax effective as a rental property.  G

]]> 22051df7849f09f823dcce9e9a95fa82 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399872-future-prospects/#post-4624176 Thu, 13 May 2010 00:24:42 +0000 Hi James.I think your original plan is pretty good, especially if you can live at home or with friends cheaply.  HoweverI also think you are on the right track looking at the positive cash flow concept, as it may allow you to buy properties with smaller deposits that are paying their own holding costs.  This means you can own more of them with l…[Read more]

]]> 8c1974fd572030c2bb4c85f0622697cc https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399851-can-i-get-a-2nd-property-without-enough-equity/#post-4624019 Wed, 12 May 2010 10:50:32 +0000 Hi again Jiia.Not to worry.  I think on your income with your motivation, you can save the deposit quite quickly, and there are always good buys out there somewhere.  Don't forget you can sit your savings in an offset account to reduce the interest on your existing mortgage.Good Luck.G

]]> 8e35b415b5e66a8dcb41ad0dbc819634 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399868-have-equity-limited-cash-no-income/#post-4624154 Wed, 12 May 2010 10:28:43 +0000 Hi Sotiris.Obviously I don't know where your home is, or how committed you are to living in that particular location, etc.  My initial thought is, however, that you could find a great house in numerous locations for less than half what your home is worth.  The remaining money could be used to buy, say 2 x $350,000 properties or 3 x $250,000 p…[Read more]

]]> 4acd8f021ebc7a04319a710857e62f90 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399851-can-i-get-a-2nd-property-without-enough-equity/#post-4624017 Wed, 12 May 2010 06:22:34 +0000 Hi Jiia.I probably shouldn't say this in case one of my kids reads it, but is there a possibility a parent could loan you the deposit for another investment, on the basis that it is a really good buy, and that you have shown them that you can reimburse them within 12 months?Alternatively you could see if they are interested in doing a joint…[Read more]

]]> 682922d4796926a06f50b9cfbe8511be https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399776-new-home-build/#post-4623511 Tue, 11 May 2010 13:06:47 +0000 Hi Tom.Just a thought, but could you sell the home, then rent as cheaply as possible for the time it takes to build on the block?  As your block would be debt free, and you have equity and cash flow in your other investments, I think you might be able to borrow against it despite your less favorable business figures?G

]]> 1f4a432e237cf09f078684db460cf82c https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399790-interest-rates-rising-again-why/#post-4623627 Tue, 11 May 2010 12:56:15 +0000 Hi Sasha,I think you are living proof that people in Australia can still afford property.  I also bought my first house at 21, as I had a young son and wanted to provide a solid foundation for him.  This involved living at home with parents and saving to pay for the land first while working and then studying.  I also had to rent it out for a pe…[Read more]

]]> 257d398b84d222fb8513f638aeda62e9 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399854-tenant-wants-out-early/#post-4624036 Tue, 11 May 2010 12:39:40 +0000 Hi Ouchiemama,We had the same thing ages ago and it is very annoying, especially when you look back and think of the other potential tenants that you could have chosen.  However, it happens to everyone eventually and I think the advice to be accommodating is good.  I am sure they will be happy to let you show other people through and you p…[Read more]

]]> 3b0799b017e3bda9ae87c91e8234527b https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4389755-subdivisions-and-single-dwelling-covenants/#post-4568230 Mon, 10 May 2010 06:24:32 +0000 Hi Melanie.For your interest, I was talking about Flagstaff Hill, Adelaide, and land originally developed by Hooker Town Developments (I think!)  Some land had been released by Barrett & Barrett without the covenants.  As the original developer no longer exists the local landbroker had successfully applied to have the restrictions overturned.  Ho…[Read more]

]]> c8ae0fc817a5054c766155f86ea5fa04 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399841-do-i-subdivide-or-build-units/#post-4623967 Mon, 10 May 2010 06:18:39 +0000 Hi Maws.While the council may approve of subdivision in their area, your particular development sounds as though it was 'protected' with certain restrictions by the original developer.  Sometimes these may be overturned, at least that is what I've been told in my area where we have been investigating the same thing. If the original developer no…[Read more]

]]> f5e9ba19fbc40f743569f70ebc99862c https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399487-rental-return-wetherill-park-sydney/#post-4621835 Mon, 10 May 2010 03:46:40 +0000 Hi trustieone.If it was me, I'd look at what else is for sale in the area to get an idea of the likely value. If you are buying from a relative they may be willing to sell it for close to council valuation (normally conservative) for a quick sale, and to avoid agents' fees.  From there you might consider that (in answer to your question) the…[Read more]

]]> 14be23a201d617198138a6e248a24223 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399839-in-trouble-2/#post-4623959 Mon, 10 May 2010 03:34:15 +0000 Hi jmboy.I'm sorry to hear about your situation, but you may not lose too much, as values have probably not dropped and may have even risen. It could be that the main road is something positive for another buyer.  Is it zoned for business, e.g. doctors' rooms?If you need the money to buy somewhere else, making a bit of a loss may make it worth…[Read more]

]]> 5fd08bbb474d2c8eff572ed05594b407 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399814-new-invester/#post-4623743 Fri, 07 May 2010 10:34:36 +0000 Hi Richard,Just to confirm (as we have done what you have suggested to Tumu) the interest on increased borrowings against the investment property used to pay down your own loan, are not a tax deduction?  E.g. your home is then freehold, but the debt shifted (secured against) the investment property is non-tax deductable, although the increased…[Read more]

]]> 8b9d609ef35332f89b922f4fc1ce96ff https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399821-best-way-to-use-500k-cash-please-help/#post-4623776 Fri, 07 May 2010 10:15:25 +0000 Hi.  We are in Adelaide also.If it was me I would look at corner block (or two street frontage, hammerhead) properties that meet the requirements of the local council to cut a courtyard block from.  You can do this in either expensive or cheaper areas.  I notice people are even doing it in Elizabeth as the north has projected growth.  An exa…[Read more]

]]> f3ab2a4b0f091f75268bf1063a9833b9 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399809-to-stick-with-rental-manager-or-do-it-myself/#post-4623722 Fri, 07 May 2010 04:47:39 +0000 Hi Jess.Lots of good advice for you so far.  I would say we have managed several ourselves and found it to be ok, but my husband is very good with people and a multi-tradesperson able to do repairs. In particular it has been great to get rent straight away, and not have to forego the first two weeks of rent to the property manager.  However, you d…[Read more]

]]> 7dbfc8c2f26aadc4c0664d6639f753a0 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399498-selling-a-tenanted-property/#post-4621964 Fri, 07 May 2010 04:18:33 +0000 Hi.I was discussing this very thing with a friend yesterday, who got her property manager and real estate agent to advise her.Her problem is, apparently, that the current tenants don't have the property presented particularly well, with boxes of stuff in bedrooms, mismatching bits of furniture etc.  The agent said this would definately make it…[Read more]

]]> 9c3141d6e21ae76ea9dd8f5e2b687322 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399729-the-new-guy/#post-4623279 Wed, 05 May 2010 07:19:52 +0000 Hi there.You might like to read Dolf de Roos, associate of Robert Kiyosaki.  His books could be in the local library. ( Real Estate Riches, and another titled something like 101 ways to improve your property.)  He apparently did a uni degree then followed it up with a very profitable real estate investment, so went into property and never &…[Read more]

]]> cff690a71e61620032bde9d2177bbdca https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4398924-finding-towns-with-population-over-10000/#post-4617982 Tue, 04 May 2010 21:19:50 +0000 Hi Sonja.In line with the aim being to target areas that have anticipated growth, not just numbers, look for Woolworths being built or enlarged.  Coles and Foodland too (or similar in your state).  They really do their research it appears.  From my experience they can even encourage growth as having a large supermarket draws other shops to the lo…[Read more]

]]> cbe0c373538fd7950f05063e0b74c828 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4389755-subdivisions-and-single-dwelling-covenants/#post-4568228 Mon, 03 May 2010 09:59:10 +0000 Hi Winzer.This sounds like just the sort of property to get.  I have found similar situations myself in SA, where covenants had been put in place by the original developer to protect the 'new' development.  I did as a previous respondent suggested and looked for other properties that HAD been developed.  Then I knocked on the door of the de…[Read more]

]]> 3f981070af92f1e4072763ef962a5b15 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399752-hammerhead-block-questions/#post-4623377 Mon, 03 May 2010 09:46:26 +0000 Hi Super Stig.We are in your general area and have developed a hammerhead block ourselves.  They are cheaper because they are not as appealing to buyers, who are used to having a street frontage.  You should know that their value may be a bit less because of this too.  However, they provide good security for tenants, and if done well are a gr…[Read more]

]]> 569f65a3ee33863c855ce0f196efc173 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399691-putting-a-new-kicthen-in-and-a-new-laundry-in-adice-or-tips-needed/#post-4623078 Mon, 03 May 2010 09:21:10 +0000 Hi Johann22.Previous responses have provided useful alternatives to complete new kitchens.  I just thought I'd add that if the cupboards are 600 mm deep (not the old-fashioned 450 narrow ones) you can replace the doors, kickboards and the benchtops, add new handles plus appliances and voila!! a new kitchen.  These suppliers are usually listed in t…[Read more]

]]> f94b3ade7f45ea6ec5b4894bee3d33fc https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399768-subdivision-potential-help/#post-4623458 Mon, 03 May 2010 08:45:22 +0000 Hi KCVards.I assume the area has a heritage restriction protecting the houses (as in Colonel Light Gardens) stopping demolishing in that area?  To enquire about the hammerhead block, you ring your local council and ask for the planning and development officer. My experience with hammerhead blocks elsewhere in Adelaide is that you must have a…[Read more]

]]> 3c512bc7d8b5cecea97b492999790e3a https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399450-10-yrs-to-retire-if-all-goes-well-advise-would-be-great/#post-4621570 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 09:40:39 +0000 Hi Andrew.I think it would be really beneficial if you read some quality literature to see what others have done to create a successful real estate portfolio.  Personally I like Margaret Lomas, but there are lots of others, all good and a book only costs $25!  Many are in the local library.From my experience, it is a matter of buying things you c…[Read more]

]]> 6e4c93a2c8492bd183fc82272659e73b https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399506-subdividing-have-i-done-the-wrong-thing/#post-4621999 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 09:19:45 +0000 Hi Sasha.I am in SA and that is only slightly more than we have paid to subdivide in the Onkaparinga Council area, so I think it was reasonable, especially if they were able to give expert advice that was useful as others have indicated.  G

]]> 7aa9fb2358d7331c0a1b0b3d6401bbb1 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399521-adelaide-renovations/#post-4622140 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 09:15:42 +0000 Hi Anthony.As a local I'd have to say anywhere within the Marion and Holdfast council areas, on 'the flats' between the beach, Marion Shopping Centre and vicinity.  It  appears to be a hot-spot for retirees and young trendies looking for a first home.  A lot of redevelopment is going on with blocks that can be subdivided, but things on smaller bl…[Read more]

]]> fcefe443da580b9f9604d8086b2b04f3 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399456-flooring-for-renovations/#post-4621615 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 08:22:03 +0000 Hi draidis.Personally I really don't like carpet.  It stains, holds smells and for allergy sufferers its not good in bedrooms either. I think the laminated flooring is a good option, especially if you have some handyperson skills, as its not that hard to do.  We have done it in 4 houses. (It is worth mentioning that it needs a nice level surface a…[Read more]

]]> b873fa22c277b9d80c040d8741ab1b19 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399545-warning-usa-investors-read-this/#post-4622287 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 08:07:37 +0000 Hi Ken.Yes, I believe this problem relates to newer properties built recently.  When looking in locations such as Florida the advertisements refer to it as 'Chinese drywall'.  I assume a building inspection would rule it out?Regards,G

]]> 25610503e44b4f62e31263c3ce12891f https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399542-is-mildura-a-good-spot-for-an-investment-property/#post-4622271 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 08:04:42 +0000 Hi Brendy.We have Mildura on our list too, and it is one of the places that Margaret Lomas has recommended and bought in herself.She targets larger rural centres with growth and good infrastructure that have positive (or near) cash flow.  I have also read that Mildura is somewhat underpriced compared to similar cities in Victoria.  Margaret L…[Read more]

]]> 052cb85364990b18617002730ba75a75 https://www.propertyinvesting.com/topic/4399549-holiday-house-2/#post-4622299 Fri, 16 Apr 2010 07:53:07 +0000 Hi.  We have a house in a holiday location and currently have it rented permanently, but would consider doing what you are contemplating in the future, so we can use it some of the time.  When I discussed the idea with the local agent they stressed the need to have it well appointed with furniture and fittings, but I assume it all depends on the m…[Read more]

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