[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 25, 2012 - 1:41 pm

i think it helps to be contrarian. A lot of the richest people in the world became that way because they thought differently from the herd.

That's why it's good to take responsibility for your decisions and actions, and to test your own assumptions

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 25, 2012 - 1:39 pm

i'd prefer to invest in blacktown than st marys. Although this is just a general suggestion. It's best if you check out the places there too

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 24, 2012 - 4:02 pm

“If you can't, you must. If you must, you can.” – Tony Robbins

Sometimes I like reading the more motivational books to put some positivity into my mind.

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January 24, 2012 - 3:56 pm

Apart from partnering with a company that works on the ground in the USA, I would suggest that you yourself check out the properties yourself too (if you can) for added due diligence, especially for the first couple for US properties
This helps to minimise risk and build you conffidence

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January 21, 2012 - 12:01 pm

I'd recommend Steve's books, also Kyosaki's, as well as Margaret Lomas' books.
Steve and Lomas are more geared for the Australian investor.

Also check out this list of suggested investing resources which I recently came across.

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 21, 2012 - 11:55 am

Ohh i really like the Richest Man in Babylon too! Especially the idea of "paying yourself first".

I also came across this list of some recommended investing books, which might help you also. All the best.

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January 20, 2012 - 1:58 pm

PositiveMini wrote:

Hi Thommo, We recently purchased in the Hunter Valley region, in Maitland. The vacancy rate is very low, properties are very solid and sound and there is a lot of government spend in the area in terms of new infrastructure. The town is well equipped with plenty of big name brand stores, hospitals and schools and good transport. Don't let the doom and gloomers affect your decision making as there is always someone out there telling you to do otherwise. Do you research and if the stats and numbers match up, then go for it. The worst mistake is to do nothing at all. Good luck and let us know how you go! P.s The Hunter Valley region is a marginal government seat so both parties take strongly to that area and will do a lot to keep it on side.

Nice advice there PositiveMini.
I've holidayed at Hunter Valley, but never really thought of investing there.
The very low vacancy rates sounds great

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 20, 2012 - 1:56 pm

i tried to click your link but it didn't work.

or those who want to check out that site. type this in your internet browser – http://www.millarslist.com

hope that helps

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 20, 2012 - 1:54 pm

i used to put money aside in managed funds, but I really disliked the management fees!!! yuck. It can be so high.

In my personal opinion, I would suggest to put money in Index funds or ETFs instead as the management fees are much lower – that's what I would do

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 20, 2012 - 1:52 pm

ahh they're all US cities.
unfortunately, i haven't invested yet in the US..
interesting list though, especially the reasons why TheStreet reckons they'll predictably do well for 2012

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 17, 2012 - 3:10 pm

From your options, I would do this: Focus on further cash-flow positive opportunities by myself within $100k-$200k in rural areas.

My goal is Cf+. As mentioned above, it depends on your personal goals

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January 17, 2012 - 3:07 pm

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 good

i would also read alot of investing books to increase education and confidence in investing

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January 16, 2012 - 10:56 am

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 commission/kickback.
Personally, I preferred to invest on my own.

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January 16, 2012 - 10:49 am

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…

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January 13, 2012 - 2:03 pm

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 actually being sold)

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January 13, 2012 - 1:53 pm

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.

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January 12, 2012 - 2:38 pm

hey lulu! Well done – inspirational that you actually TOOK SOME ACTION! and have been updating us. Keep the updates going.

It'd be awesome if one of your upcoming posts is of buying a property! then we'll realllyy celebrate.

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January 12, 2012 - 2:37 pm

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 share

hmmm. i wonder if I have anything to sell..

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January 11, 2012 - 1:58 pm

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 industries around the area will ensure employment and tenants.

[mattstaParticipant@mattstaJoin Date: 2011Post Count: 604]

January 11, 2012 - 1:53 pm

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