you need to save up for a deposit first, also for potential stamp duty (which ahs now been reintroduced). talk to mortgage brokers, and go house hunting to get a feel of the market – researching on the internet is also goodi would also read alot of investing books to increase education and confidence in investing

i've been to a TIC seminar/meeting as well. I was introduced to the TIC from a friend who is a member. He had bought about 2-3 properties in QLD with them.After the seminar, I asked them how they actually got paid (as they don't relly disclose that very well in the meeting), to which they responded that they do receive some sort of…[Read more]

That bloke at work is pretty crazy. I couldn't believe it when I saw the headline of this thread. I'm actually proactively looking for CF+ properties and he's wanting to get rid of it…

Yeah I use the internet for a lot of research! It's so convenient.Here are some that I like:Australian Bureau of Statistics – http://www.abs.gov.au (for data on populations/demgraphics/trends)Big Pond Money – bigpondmoney.com.au (for latest money news, and property trends)RealEstate.com.au (for looking at actual properties & comparing those that are…[Read more]

This year, I'm going to still save up for a deposit with my partner for a first home. Aiming to save a total of $30-40K. Focus therefore will be in residential, and I'll keep a lookout for a PPOR that I later intend to turn into a IP. Although I have been reading the challenges of a number of FHBs in finding a good deal recently.

i saw this added forum just today, and was curious what this was all about.This should be interesting… especially since I know that many people are really eager to learn more.This is a great way to sharehmmm. i wonder if I have anything to sell..

Hey EPI Den,Yes, mining and regional towns can be great for CF+ properties (even though many may still think that CF+ are impossible nowadays).I agree that investors need to ensure that there are other industries, just in case one of the big industries (such as mining) pulls out. Your property will still be fine as other businesses in other…[Read more]

Seems like you've got yourself in 'analysis paralysis'!Get out of it this year!If I were you, I'd have my criteria, and if I find properties that fit that criteria, I would then buy from that smaller list. You just need to decide and take action!You already have properties under your belt

I've been reading up more and more on CF+ properties as I focus on this as my first phase of my investing strategy.For CF+ deals, I'd suggest checking out mining towns, regional towns and areas outside capital cities.

TIP: If you fail to plan, you plan to fail. Set up goals for yourself – such as short, mid and long term goals. Then figure out plans for the achievement of those goals. Also set deadlines. This can be very important for real estate investing, so that you can achieve financial freedom.

DHCP wrote:
You will pick up some ideas from this free seminar but mostly they are introductory topic…then they will ask you to sign up for their program which cost a fortune. Think of it like an entree, they will serve you the main meal and dessert when you become a member.

Ohhhh! how it annoys me when I take the effort to go to a seminar…[Read more]

Yeah, I'd suggest to rent it out fully furnished. It can make things easier for you and the increased rental returns can be worth it

I like the sound of doing renos as well, especially  while you are living in it (might as well).Even simple renos like the flooring and painting as you suggested can help to increase the "perceived" value of the place, to then help you increase rents

I also prefer learning from books and forums. Books tend to be good because the info is more organised – sometimes forum info can be all over the place.Some seminars can be useful, but often they may skim over info (because it's hard to go through material in depth in a short period of time), or you may be stuck in a seminar that is really a sales…[Read more]

Hey DMB,Good question!This article may help you about the latest trends between Home Ownership VS Rental Affordability – esepcially since you're trying to decide for yourself which is better.It also shows you the median rental prices for different cities, including Adelaide where a 3 bedroom median rent is $320.

Well done on making a decision! Hopefully it will make you prosperous for the new year.You had mentioned that you were thinking blacktown – I went to a property seminar where they were talking about the potential of this area. I may think of looking at the properties there myselfall the best!

You could get soem gems of info if you go to these "free" seminars, but at the end, they'll give you a sales pitch on one of their products and services – they may say that thei'r service that they offer is also "free" for you, but find out how they make their money. They might actually make money via commissions.Personally, I prefer learning from…[Read more]

hey dark star,yeah i'd suggest to pay off the personal debt loan first – as the interest rates on those can lose you lots of money.Good ambitions though keep it up.I'm not sure of investor clubs in Melbourne, but just watch out for "clubs" that claim to be in your interest but that will want to sell you or scam you.

Yeah I'd be mostly concerned about the transaction fees and the exchange rates.  If you're still getting ahead even with these fees and rate fluctuations, then it can be worth it. It also helps to have cash reserves, just in case exchange rates get hairy on you all of a sudden.

Hey Andrew,Did you attach a pic. I couldn't see it (I tihnk I have to register for a service to see it?)Anyway, I agree with the concept of increasing "perceived value" – although your idea of darkening colors from the entrance then to other rooms could be a little strange. Will they all be the same color but different shades? Totally different…[Read more]