Research and having the right people to help you are the keys when investing in property.
It definitely pays to do your homework on the property market before you dive in, and we’re thrilled to be on board to help you when it comes to financing your decision. Recent share market slides, tight rental markets in most capital cities and a whiff of increase in property prices are seeing many mum and dad investors retreat to bricks and mortar.
Generally, property in Australia is still considered to be a sound investment due to steady and consistent increases over time.
But it’s not a quick win. Property usually has a seven to ten year cycle, with highs, lows and steady stints in between.
Fortunately, an ongoing housing shortage in Australia and a tax system that allows negative gearing on property (where any investment losses can be claimed as tax deductions) continue to favour housing as a solid, long-term investment.
But credit has tightened in the wake of the Global Financial Crisis so lenders are more cautious about who borrows and for what. We are here to help find the right lender and loan for your circumstances in this new environment. We can also wade through the many investment loan options on offer, leaving you more time to find the ideal property.
A general list of investing FAQ
One of the many advantages of buying an investment property is having a rental income stream. This, on top of your personal income can work in your favour when it comes to borrowing money. Contact us today, we can help with calculations based on your individual circumstances.
The market is in constant change – should you fix – for how long and what type of loan is best suited ? Ideally, you should customise the loan to suit your goals and budget. Talk to us about the right structure which will fit in with your lifestyle.
Typically you’ll need 10% of the value of a property, which you pay when signing a Contract of Sale. Speak with us to discuss your options for a deposit. You may be able to borrow against the equity in your existing home or an investment property.
Go to our Repayment Calculator for an estimate. Because there so many different loan products, some with lower introductory rates, talk to us today about the deals currently available, we’ll find the right loan set-up for you.
Most lenders offer flexible repayment options to suit your pay cycle. Aim for weekly or fortnightly repayments, instead of monthly, as you will make more payments in a year, which will shave dollars and time off your loan.
There are a number of fees involved when buying a property. To avoid any surprises, the list below sets out all of the usual costs:
- Stamp Duty — This is the big one. All other costs are relatively small by comparison. Stamp duty rates vary between state and territory governments and also depend on the value of the property you buy. You may also have to pay stamp duty on the mortgage itself. To find out your total Stamp Duty charge, visit our Stamp Duty Calculator.
- Legal/conveyancing fees — Generally around $1,000 – $1500, these fees cover all the legal rigour around your property purchase, including title searches.
- Building inspection — This should be carried out by a qualified expert, such as a structural engineer, before you purchase the property. Your Contract of Sale should be subject to the building inspection, so if there are any structural problems you have the option to withdraw from the purchase without any significant financial penalties. A building inspection and report can cost up to $1,000, depending on the size of the property. Your conveyancer will usually arrange this inspection, and you will usually pay for it as part of their total invoice at settlement (in addition to the conveyancing fees).
- Pest inspection — Also to be carried out before purchase to ensure the property is free of problems, such as white ants. Your Contract of Sale should be subject to the pest inspection, so if any unwanted crawlies are found you may have the option to withdraw from the purchase without any significant financial penalties. Allow up to $500 depending on the size of the property. Your real estate agent or conveyancer may arrange this inspection, and you will usually pay for it as part of their total invoice at settlement (in addition to the conveyancing fees).
- Lender costs — Most lenders charge establishment fees to help cover the costs of their own valuation as well as administration fees. We will let you know what your lender charges but allow about $600 to $800.
- Moving costs — Don’t forget to factor in the cost of a removalist if you plan on using one.
- Mortgage Insurance costs — If you borrow more than 80% of the purchase price of the property, you’ll also need to pay Lender Mortgage Insurance. You may also choose to take out Mortgage Protection Insurance. If you buy a strata title, regular strata fees are payable.
- Ongoing costs — You will need to include council and water rates along with regular loan repayments. It is important to also take out building insurance and contents insurance. Your lender will probably require a minimum sum insured for the building to cover the loan, but make sure you actually take out enough building insurance to cover what it would cost if you had to rebuild. Likewise, make sure you have enough contents cover should you need to replace everything if the worst happens.
We are here to help
Did you know that during the home loan application process we can help you find the right insurance options too.
