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  • Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
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    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi,

    It's good to ask questions and I always encourage it.

    First up, with the start of the latest RESULTS program, a lot of my time is being spent writing materials and answering questions of late. You will notice though that I did a short 5 min video about my thoughts on the current property market.

    I'm also making good on some long awaited promises in terms of writing the content for the Advanced MasterClass pack.

    Aside from that, I have a number of property projects on the go and they are keeping me busy too. No point writing about investing if I am not doing it myself!

    Finally, in terms of Dean's seminar – I understand concerns about value of 'paper as such' I mean the real cost of an A4 sheet is about 5 cents in paper and maybe 2 cents in ink. But if the knowledge on that paper can help you make $10,000, or save you from disaster then it is worth a lot more.

    I see it as the cost of eductaion. $695 is pretty reasonable for a one day seminar, and the templates are free bonus items.

    I'll be at the Melbourne seminar with a pen and notepad as I'll be keen to learn from Dean. His systems make a lot of money and those who come along will be in for a treat.

    Thanks for the post and all the best.

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi,

    You've made a good first draft. Some comments to help you improve include:

    1. Headline needs to be shorter and punchier. Example: Hands Up If You Want A Great Investment?

    Remember the headline exists to attract attention and to help you stand out from the noise.

    2. Hmmm – not sure I would use your first line as a leader. What if I'm not sophisticated? If you want to go with this angle then tweak it. Perhaps 'Finally. The opportunity of a lifetime that a smart investor will snap up fast.` At this point you are building interest.

    3. Seems to me that this is a set and forget type investment. I`d play on that… sit back and watch the rent roll in (that could be your headline). Go with the growth angle and try to turn features into benefits.

    A unique opportunity to acquire an A Grade asset in one of Australia`s most desireable locations with record high growth.`Of course, this needs to be true!

    Remember that you want to build desire, but also leave the reader wanting to call to find out more.  You could close with…

    This is a great deal. How great… Call now to find out!`

    Keep working through it. You`ve made a great start. Well done.

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi,

    I recommend you read this site: http://www.propertyinvestment.net.au/tax-deduction.htm

    Stamp duty is a capital cost and added to the value of your property. Lender's mortgage insurance is a borrowing expense and can be written off over the shorter of the life of the loan or 5 years.

    Cheers,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hey Jason,

    Welcome back to the site.

    Okay, some ideas for you…

    1. Do you remember who your solicitor who handled your purchase? S/he will have a file in archives that they can pull and find out the information.
     
    2. You should be able to get the rates you are after by getting in touch with the NSW Office of State Revenue. Their contact number is 1300 139 814

    All the best,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
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    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hey Jim,

    Sounds like a golden goose deal. Well done.

    You would be best to see an accountant here, but I think that provided you bought the property as an investment with a goal of making a profit then the fact that it has gone up so much in value provides a reasonable argument for claiming the interest on a loan used to buy that investment property.

    As for reducing the CGT, well, provided you are structured properly then you should only have to pay tax at your marginal rate at 50% of the gain. Definitely go and see an accoutnant for some tax planning though to see if you can take advantage of any rural allowances (don't know if there are any, but worth a try).

    Well done again on your deal!

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
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    Hi Dan,

    My first comment involves making sure that you use the right terms when dealing with the bank/lender. The situation that you describe above is not vendor financing. What you have described is a second mortgage arrangement.

    Vendor finance as such is a form of funding where the seller (vendor) holds some or all of the sale price back in the form of a loan back to you. However, unlike a regular sale, the title does not immediately transfer but instead remains with the vendor until the loan is repaid.

    Therefore, it is natural for your lender to reject vendor finance as you have described it because they do not have a title to secure it against.

    It sounds like the better option here is as you have described, with the sale taking place, title being transferred, first mortgage given to the normal lender, and then the seller (no longer the vendor as such after title transfers) having a second mortgage.

    Now, this is a legal question for a lawyer, but I'm not sure if you have to tell the first mortgage holder that you are getting a second mortgage. However I do know that you'll need to be careful though and read the first mortgage loan doc carefully to see what your discloure obligations are (and whether or not you are allowed!) to get a second mortgage.

    If there is any mortgage insurance on the first mortgage then this may complicate matters.

    Naturally, don't do anything illegal.

    Hope this has helped.

    All the best with the deal.

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hey there Emily.

    How did the conference go?

    I'm actually attending an internet marketing conference in Canada right now!

    I agree that reading books is the best place to start… that's what I did.

    I'd also make a start with some tentative investing, and if it's related to the stockmarket, get your hands on Louise Bedford's books.

    Property is more intense in that you have to deal with more people, but you can also make a lot of money if you know what you are doing. Perhaps take a look at API magazine as there are articles from time to time from people less than 25 who do well from property.

    I would also like to commend you on your attitude. Well done and all the best.

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi,

    Forgive the technical terms, but…

    You can claim the depreciation on your investment properties as a deduction against your assessable income, thereby reducing your taxable income.

    If you like, the amount of your tax shield is: Depreciation Claim * Average Marginal Income Tax Rate.

    Let's look at an example to flesh this out, assuming the following:

    Salary: $80,000
    Rent: $20,000
    Deductions: $25,000
    Depreciation: $13,000

    In this case, your assessable income is $100k ($80k + $20k), and your allowable deductions are $38k ($25k + $13k). Therefore your taxable income (Assessable Income – Allowable Deductions) is $62k ($100k – $38k).

    The amount of the tax shield of the depreciation can be worked out as follows:

    Tax on Taxable Income of $75k ($80k + $20k – $25k) = $17,850
    Tax on Taxable Income of $62k  ($80k + $20k – $25k – $13k) = $13,950

    Tax saving on $13,000 depreciation claim = $3,900

    Hope this makes sense. Thanks for drawing me back in to my deep dark accounting past!

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi,

    Thanks for your questions about RESULTS. I'll try to answer them.

    1. About RESULTS

    Some years ago I became aware that people desired more than just a seminar. After careful planning we released the RESULTS mentoring program where participants have access to an experienced property investor to coach/support and mentor them over 12 months.

    We don't provide instant pills or magic solutions – but we do know property very well and have been able to now assist hundreds of people to get substantial financial outcomes from their property investing.

    The RESULTS from the program do vary, and pretty much what you put in is what you get out. Some have outstanding experiences. For example, one participant presented her deal at the last get together that has an expected profit of $2.9millon. If only all deals were like that!

    On the flip side, there are some that do the program who do not acquire any property. This is not a failure though as everyone goes at their own pace and our job is to help rather than act as a drill sergeant.

    The outcomes you achieve depend largely on your vision, plan, strategy and how much action you take.

    This is not a get rich program. It is structured and comprehensive training by professionals where we aim to transform your life by working with you 1-on-1. There is nothing like it on the market.

    2. Pricing

    I agree the pricing is confusing and I apologise for that. This year we allowed people to pre-register and this has caused additional complexity.

    To cut to the chase though, the reduced price for those who pre-register before the deadline expires (at https://www.propertyinvesting.com/results2008prereg2) is $6,490 (if you pay upfront) or $6,690 if you pay over three instalments.

    3. Instalments

    You can either pay upfront (slightly cheaper) or over three instalments of $2,230. The first payment is due now, the second payment is due 15 June and the third payment is due on the 15th August.

    4. Other Costs

    The cost covers the following:

    A. Direct 1-on-1 mentoring over 12 months
    B. Access to structured training including over 400 pages of written material, CDs, DVDs, Webinars etc.
    C. 5 One-day (10am to 4pm) Mini Seminars exclusive to RESULTS participants
    D. And many other benefits and privileges.

    Note: We are not accountants, solicitors, architects etc. We will help you to brainstorm solutions, but we are not replacements to professional advisers in specialist fields. Having said that, we know a lot and will help you as much as possible within our areas of expertise.

    5. Mentor Contact

    You can phone or email your mentor as you like or need. Some people also call in to the office from time to time and enjoy a coffee.

    It is quite hectic in the first 60 days, but after then things really settle down. It would be highly unusual not to be able to get in contact with your coach (or the coaching panel) within 24 hours of asking for help.

    6. Advantage If You Are Maxed Out

    You are where you are as a result of your beliefs about money which translate into your money habits. Sadly, much of our society programs us to be poor.

    Therefore, one of our goals in RESULTS is to help you acquire money habits that will allow you to create and retain large sums of money. Therefore, one of the first things we teach is how to get out of debt. This is what Tim talks about on the video which you can watch at https://www.propertyinvesting.com/results2008prereg2

    To date, everyone I am aware of exited the program in a superior financial position than when they started.

    7. Cost Free Introduction

    If you would like to discuss your specific situation then call Simon Buckingham on 03 8892 3800 during office hours. He is the head coach and will be able to help you.

    8. Allocation of Mentors

    Shortly after joining we ask you to complete a survey and then based on your answers we will allocate you a mentor that best suits your needs. If there is a personality clash or other complication then we can reallocate you to another mentor.

    Remember, even though you will be under the primary care of one mentor, the whole coaching team will be available to assist where needs be.

    9. My Role

    Most of my time in mentoring is spent either with the coaches discussing issues or else working with RESULTS graduates. That said, if you ever have a specific need to talk to me then I'm available.

    I hope this has helped answer some of your questions. RESULTS really is a unique opportunity for those who want some hands-on help from people who have walked the path and know the way to use property to make money.

    All the best,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi L,

    The first four weeks are self-study rather than facilitated.

    In terms of feedback… I recently put a video together which may be of interested. You can watch it for free at:

    https://www.propertyinvesting.com/results2008prereg2

    Cheers,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    There may be some stamp duty savings if you buy it as your first home.

    Investigate possibilities using the internet according to your state authority (e.g. it would be the State Revenue Office in Vic).

    Cheers,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi Shelley,

    I suggest you read the books as written by people you want to emulate. Everyone is different, and there are many ways to make money from property. No one is right or wrong.

    My advice is to think about 4 points:

    1. Get a vision for what you want from your property. No point being a guru with 1000 properties if you go broke!

    2. Make a plan. How much money and by when.

    3. Choose a strategy: Which property money making method meets your time, money, skill and risk profile.

    4. Take action. Thinking about money won't make you rich. You need to keep active.

    This said, if you are serious about stepping up then check out the RESULTS mentoring program https://www.propertyinvesting.com/results2008prereg2

    All the best,

     

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi,

    Quick-turn relates to quick turnaround property projects where you get in, add value, and get out thereby banking a profit. Quick turn is b/w 6 – 18 months depending on the project.

    While some types of commerical property will be risky in a downturn, I'm not talking fish and chip shops… I'm talking about blue chip property that is leased to good / established quality tenants.

    Cheers,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
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    Well, you could approach the vendor's and ask them to give notice during the settlement period. You may have to indemnify them against any lost rent though.

    Otherwise, the day you settle issue the notice to vacate.

    Cheers,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
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    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
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    Hi,

    There seems to be a NSW industry body for architects who I would approach as a first step. Their web address is: http://www.architects.nsw.gov.au/home.cfm?smenu=3

    Be wary though – you want an adviser who is cost conscious rather than looking for a project to show off his/her flair at any price. You may be better of with someone just starting out who is looking to get some work to build experience.

    Most architects will have builders they recommend / work with regularly.

    Cheers,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
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    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
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    Hi,

    Thanks for your generous comments about the book.

    Sadly, the days of going out and buying a positively geared property are now generally over. This is because prices have risen in excess of rents, and costs of owning property (in particular interest rates) have risen too.

    Does this mean we should give up and look to other wealth creation opportunities? I don't think so, not yet.

    The lesson here is that we need to evolve our investing as the market changes. My recommendation is that people now look to create positive cashflow rather than simply buy it. There are a number of means of making this happen. However, my preferred model, which will be fully outlined at the upcoming conference, is to take small sums of money, multiply them into an investing bank, and then use those funds to buy good quality commercial property that provides an income stream.

    For example, in your case you could take that $15k and try to turn it into (say) $100k within two years (doing quick-turn deals), and then use that $100k to buy a $350,000 commercial property that will provide positive cashflow.

    Well done on asking questions. Keep looking for answers!

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
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    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
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    Hi,

    First up, I'm not a lawyer, so this information is to the best of my knowledge. I recommend that you pay a professional to test its accuracy.

    Vacant Possession

    Assuming you bought the property on the basis that it was to be vacant at settlement, you have just cause NOT to settle on time. Rather to defer settlement until it is vacant or discount the sales proceeds by an agreed amount to compensate your for your loss. You may also look to rescind the contract if the terms of the agreement have been breached, but this is a more serious outcome given you'll be wanting your deposit money back and the vendor's solicitor presumably has that.

    My recommendation is for your solicitor to send a friendly 'reminder' email as to the terms of the contract (i.e. vacant possession) and in doing so reiterate the importance of that clause to your intended plans.

    Month to Month Tenancy

    I understand that a tenant on a month-to-month lease needs to be given 60 days notice to vacate in this circumstance. You may like to check this with the rental manager / consumer affairs vic.
    More information:

    Early Release Of Deposit Money

    You are talking Section 27 of the Sale of Land Act. Rather than rephrasing the content, I recommend you check out:
    http://www.lawyersconveyancing.com.au/section_27.asp

    I hope this has helped.

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
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    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
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    Hi,

    Welcome to the forum and thanks for you post.

    You can certainly sell your right to the finished product, and this is an everyday transaction.  That is, you are not selling the property so much as the right to the property once it is finished.

    Some things to be aware of though are:

    * Is there a rental guarantee? If so, how much and what are the fineprint clauses?

    * Leave the lowest deposit possible. 10% is not etched in stone and the less down the better as you are essentially getting a 0% return on that money in the meantime.

    * Get some idea of what the body corp costs will be once finished – it may be more than you expect.

    * Does it come furnished? If so, do you like the furniture and are you getting a good deal?

    * How many carparks does it come with? My guess is only one, but find out. If you can get more than one then it may be worth the extra cost as they are scarce and will be a key selling feature when you decide to sell.

    * I hope the capital gain eventuates. In years past it has not and people have been left disappointed.

    * Be aware that the property may not be easy to sell before it is finished as there is a limited market of potential buyers. If many people try to sell then it is possible the value will drop below what you paid for it.

    * Final point – some financiers are very particular about what they will and won't lend for in terms of inner city apartments. Do you research so you are sure you will get a loan – visit a bank or mortgage broker to check out your options.

    Hope this has helped. Without wanting to sound opportunistic, you sound like the ideal sort of person who would benefit from coming to the upcoming 3 day conference. Check out the link below.

    All the best,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Allan,

    Some thoughts about investing in the US:

    1. Indirect ownership may be a good option, however remember it will be the quality of the management as much as the quality of the property bought that determines the return.

    2. Direct ownership in the US poses some problems for non-residents. Chief among them is the ability to borrow without a social security number. There are ways around it, but they take time and can cost a lot.

    3. The danger with investing OS is that you become as much a currency investor as a property investor. This is particularly so the higher the deposit you leave.

    4. Local property laws differ quite a lot to those in Australia. For instance, the cost of managing the property portfolio will be higher.

    5. Remember that the US is on the other side of the world. Communication will be difficult, and it is a long way away if you have to sort something out.

    Therefore, if you go ahead, choose your assets wisely. I'd imagine it is better to buy good quality 'set and forget' rather than problem properties that are difficult to 'fix' from a distance.

    Finally, remember that the tax laws will complicate your investing.

    All the best,

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

    Profile photo of Steve McKnightSteve McKnight
    Keymaster
    @stevemcknight
    Join Date: 2001
    Post Count: 1,763

    Hi,

    It certainly can – on at least two fronts. In answering I have assumed that it is an easement in favour of water/sewerage.

    Generally, an easement is a right to access a property to the favour of another person. Common easements include access for power, water, sewerage, or for access to another property.

    To answer your question then…

    1. An water easement cannot usually have a permanent sturcture built on top of it. About the limit is a carport (as opposed to a garage) or a garden shed. If access is required then you will need to make it possible at your cost.

    2. More of an issue though is that for subdivision to go ahead you will need to ensure there are services available to the property. Accordingly, you may need to chop up the block so that there access to the easement from both titles. This may mean that you extend the existing easement.

    I recommend that you call or visit the local water authority and discuss this matter directly with them.

    Some quick research revealed (albeit not from Qld).

    Hope it goes well for you.

    Steve McKnight | PropertyInvesting.com Pty Ltd | CEO
    https://www.propertyinvesting.com

    Success comes from doing things differently

Viewing 20 posts - 361 through 380 (of 1,712 total)