Agree with Catalyst – the existing benchtop looks fine and does the trick. I can't see you getting any more rent for a flashier benchtop. It might add a little value but I wouldn't bother with it personally.

Cheers

Jamie

Hi Kade – I've never heard of it. What's the basic idea?

Cheers

Jamie

Get a decent broker on side. They'll listen to your longer term plans, discuss structure and answer any questions you have.

Cheers

Jamie

OK – in that case, your broker will be able to provide a more specific explanation. There's something holding it up – they will be able to find out exactly what this is.

Cheers

Jamie

They're assessment times have blown out a little – but not by that much.

Was there a valuation required? That can drag things out.

Cheers

Jamie

Hi Sparkly

 – Word of mouth, recommendations from others, their contribution to forums like this, the rebaa website….all are good starts.

 – Usually you hone in on an area and then find a BA who operates within the area. You provide them with an outline of what you're after. They then do the search and negotiating. Some offer a variety of services – so this is really just a general response.

 – Some might. 

 – They can cost anywhere between $5k to $10k in my experience.

Cheers

Jamie

Scope out the back of the IP related magazines that show the average rental yields and property values for each suburb in Australia. With that info – you'll be able to narrow down your search to a few areas.

Cheers

Jamie

I wouldn't worry too much about the roof right now. It seems like it doesn't need to be done right now (a few cracked tiles) so you'd be better off repainting later on when you're closer to selling. Otherwise, you'll prob end up needing to get it redone.

Cheers

Jamie

Give me an old property that can be tarted up quickly and cost effectively for an instant equity gain any day of the week.

Unless my state govt. had some really attractive concessions on offer for new builds and the rest of the deal stacks up – then new can be worth considering.

This obviously a very general statement though. There's so much to take into account and Mark's post is a good start.

Cheers

Jamie

It's a pity some agents act in this way – and I've experienced it first hand on a number of occasions.

They forget they operate in a service industry and whilst they may have already sealed the deal – they're still required to uphold a level of customer service….and they're not doing their reputation any favors.

You shouldn't have to pretend to be someone else just to get an update – that's really poor form on their behalf. Hopefully it all works out ok.

Cheers

Jamie