7 Tips for Selling Your Property in Autumn

All seasons have their benefits, and Autumn is no exception. People are back in the swing of things after the holiday season, and those who have made a new year’s resolution to buy a new home or add a new property to their portfolio are ready to house hunt.  For the most part, preparing your home or investment property for listing in autumn is not any different from the prep work do...

Top 5 Tips for Selling Your Home

Listing your home on the market can be a hectic time, but a little planning and research can go a long way to a successful sale. You want to create competition for your home and ultimately achieve a higher sales price. While you may love your property as it is, you need to make sure that it's properly prepared to attract the right buyer. Be ready to roll up the sleeves and get it looking in t...

Are You Ready to Sell Your Home ? 9 Signs You Are .....

Are you considering selling your house? It's not a decision to be taken lightly. There are many factors to consider, from the current market conditions to your financial readiness and emotional readiness to move. In this article, we will explore ten surefire signs that indicate it might be the right time to sell your house. So, let's dive in and find out if it's time for you to make a move!&nbs...

How to Help Sell Your Home as Fast as Possible

Despite economic instability, property prices have not only stopped falling, but they are now on the rise. As we move into this next phase of the property market cycle, you may want to take advantage of the rise in property value by selling your home fast. Typically, the best time to sell your house is within the first few weeks of putting it on the market. This gives you the best bet of getti...

Top 5 Smells That Sell Houses

Step inside any home and it's not the decor or layout that makes a first impression, but the smell. Soaring high ceilings, light-filled interiors and exquisite finishes may be grand, but potential buyers could be heading out the front door quickly if the property doesn’t engage all of their senses, including their noses. Why is smell important to selling a home? Neuroscience shows our b...

5 Considerations When Downsizing From a House to an Apartment

Making the decision to downsize from a house to an apartment is a big step. More than just moving homes, downsizing involves a lifestyle change. So in order to make the right decision for you and your family, it is important to do some research. Recently growing in popularity, downsizing encompasses everything from moving from a house to an apartment, villa, townhouse or even a retirement vill...

How To Stage Your Home To Sell (With Tips)

Whether you are listing a small apartment or a stately mansion, knowing how to stage your home to sell is essential to win over prospective buyers.It might sound like added work or expense, but it can make a significant difference – adding an estimated 5 to 10 per cent to the final sale price. Moreover, if money isn't incentive enough, research shows that staged homes tend to spend less t...

Sellers Guide to Preparing for Home Inspections

Competition is high in the real estate market...so how do you best prepare your home for sale, ensure it stands out from the crowd and attracts more buyers?  According to 96% of our top agents the answer is spending time preparing your property for home inspections.  By doing this well, 87% of agents believe it can boost the final sales price by up to 10%...and that is a lot of money!...

How to Save Money on Your Electric Bill All Year Round

It’s hard not to feel anxious when the electricity bill arrives. Even if you have tried to be vigilant about your power usage, the amount due can make a huge and unexpected dent in your budget.  The good news is some simple strategies that can be adopted year-round to reduce your power bill – and this doesn’t have to mean wearing a beanie indoors during winter or giving ...

10 Tips For Selling Your Home in Winter

When it comes to selling a home, there is a common understanding that winter isn’t the ideal time to go to market. Think cold days, dark afternoons, rainy weather and lacklustre looking gardens.  However, it’s important to remember that people look for property to buy at all times of the year. With this in mind, there are even benefits to selling a house in winter. In this blo...

How Much Value Does a Renovated Kitchen Add to Your Home

A sleek new kitchen with gleaming appliances can instantly improve the saleability of a property. But before you start ripping out cabinets and countertops, it is important to do your research, particularly if you are looking to add value to your home.Kitchens are the most expensive room in the home to renovate. Often, it comes down to whether you are updating for lifestyle or to make money. If...

The 7 Property Investment Mistakes To Avoid

Buying an investment property is a dream for many. When done right, it can set you up with a comfortable retirement and even the opportunity to buy multiple investment properties, increasing your assets and your money. However, like every investment, there are some risks involved especially if you do not know what to look out for.  So what are the typical property investment mistakes and ...

Your Guide to Selling a House in Autumn

The weather is a little crisper, the days a little shorter and the leaves on the trees start to change into beautiful shades of oranges and yellows. Autumn is a favourite season for many people, but what about selling your house in Autumn?Timing the sale of your property can make all the difference, but most importantly, it has to suit you, the seller. Often people believe that the warmer ...

How to Invest in Property With Little Money

Investing in property is considered one of the best ways to build wealth and set up a better future. Surprisingly, you don’t need to be super rich to get started, but you will need to work out a strategy to reach your financial goals. If you are a property owner, it may be possible to start your portfolio by using the equity in your existing home. Or, if you are new to the market, you co...

Your Guide to Selling a House After a Divorce

It is one of life’s biggest upheavals, but it is a stressful double whammy when divorce or separation means having to sell the family home you share. Deciding how to divide money and property when a long-term relationship ends can be extremely difficult, no matter how amicable the split. In this blog post, we look at how to sell a house after a divorce and answer all the questions you ma...

The 8 Life Events That Influence Real Estate

You can buy, sell or invest in a property at virtually every stage of life. For most, any decision to buy or sell a home can be tied to a major life event. The first home for a school leaver, a bigger home for a growing family, a small home for an older couple looking to downsize – the list goes on. Your decision about buying a home or investing in real estate is highly dependent on ...

When Is a Good Time to Sell Your Home?

Knowing when is a good time to sell your home can be difficult, even though timing is not everything when selling. We have collated five criteria for you to consider when deciding whether or not to sell your home. By considering these, you should be able to have a stronger feeling of whether or not now is the best time to sell.  Personal circumstances Seasonality  The state of th...

Costs of Selling Real Estate

Selling a house is undoubtedly a major life event. But, while the idea of new beginnings should leave sellers excited for their next chapter, moving can sometimes be a challenging and emotional process. This is, in part, caused by the unavoidable and seemingly hidden costs of selling a house. To make your journey less stressful, understanding these costs before beginning the process is essenti...

The 5 Benefits of Property Inspection Before Selling

Buyers routinely have property inspections performed for obvious reasons, but why are pre-sale property inspections also important for sellers? Building and pest inspections allow sellers to uncover any issues with their property. Whether it is mould, leaking pipes, pests and termites, issues with electrical wiring, or water damage, property inspections give you a clear picture of your property...

Essential Elements of a Great Sales Campaign

With LJ Hooker having over 90 years experience selling homes, and Wayne Morgan with over 40 years industry experience,  we’ve found there are four key elements that underpin all great real estate sales campaigns: Choosing the right method of sale, Having a comprehensive marketing plan, Styling the property sell and Getting the right pricing strategy. Let’s have a look ...

10 Mistakes First Home Buyers Make (And How to Avoid Them)

How exciting you’ve decided to embark down the road of home ownership!  You’re probably finding that everyone is giving you advice whether you want it or not….from your parents, friends, work colleagues and anyone else you ask.  Whilst you’ll receive loads of advice on what to do, we wanted to share some of the pitfalls – some of the things you shou...

What’s Your Insurance Responsibility When Buying a Home?

If you’re looking to buy a home or have just bought one, you’ve undoubtedly spent hours doing your due diligence; analysing the location, reviewing the local market, visiting copious open homes and liaising with your bank and lawyer…. but the big decisions aren’t over yet.  Having spent a chunk of your life savings and most probably carrying a home loan, making sur...

Auction Strategies - Bid With Confidence

Buying at auction can be a fast and effective means of securing your dream property but buyer beware, it is not without risks. With substantial sums of money at stake and emotions running high, property auctions can be adrenalin-charged affairs.There’s a lot to be said for buying at auction. For starters, you can see exactly who you’re up against and what sums of cash other bidders ...

How to Make Your Home for Sale Photogenic

Selling your property can take a lot of effort. Between the spring clean, sprucing up the outdoors and clearing out all of your clutter. However, it is essential to remember that most people's first impression of your home will not be up close and personal. Indeed, it will be through the photographs you present in listings.To really put your home a cut above the competition, it is vital to capt...

7 New Year’s Resolutions to Help You Buy a Home in 2023

Are you hoping to buy a property in 2023? Here are seven new year’s resolutions that can help keep your financial resume in shape. And the fitter it is, the more chance you have to be able to buy. Resolution #1 - Clearly outline your goal Having a very specific goal is the first step to reaching it, so write down exactly what you want to achieve. For example, "buy a 1 bedroom unit near ...

6 New Year’s Resolutions for Sellers

The New Year is the perfect time to put those plans to upgrade or downsize into action. Preparing your home for sale can feel overwhelming, but we have come up with 6 resolutions to set you off on the right track and help you achieve a successful sale. Resolution # 1: Get Cleaning Your home needs to be presented in its best possible light when it hits the market. This means doing all those li...

How to Make Your Home an Eco-Friendly House

Homeowners who invest in 'green' living are not just helping to save the planet but could be boosting the value of their property. Demand for eco-friendly houses is on the rise as families look to reduce their carbon footprint and power bills. This is providing extra incentive for upgrading to solar panels and smart-home technology. Even adding a compost or vegetable garden ...

10 Unique Christmas Decorating Ideas

Bring joy to your home and to your wallet by taking a different approach to the way you adorn your home this festive season. Who would have thought burnt out light globes or toilet roll tubes could be transformed into dazzling ornaments?Instead of buying the same old Christmas decorations that you find in every shop, why not try making your own using elements that you already have lying around ...

How to Create a Zen Home

With more and more companies embracing remote working, many people are now spending a lot of time at home. Therefore, feeling good in your house or apartment has become more crucial than ever. So how to create a zen home, a pleasant and comfortable haven in which you will be able to both work well and relax?To help you transform your interior into a peaceful cocoon, we share a few tips and some...

How to Refinance Your Home Loan

Australian mortgage holders are typically reluctant to switch home loans, even when interest rates are rising. However, a wave of successive hikes has forced many into action. So are you wondering how to refinance your home loan? While it may seem like a hassle to swap lenders, technology has cut down on the paperwork making it easier than ever before to get a better deal on repayments. It is ...

How To Style a Living Room

Every home needs a comfort zone. And the living room is the perfect spot to create a haven of relaxation. An area where you can kick off your shoes, curl up under a blanket and unwind in front of the telly.But a living room also needs to be versatile so it can be used to entertain friends and family while indoors. Most importantly, regardless of its size, the space needs to be inviting. So, how...

How to Maximise Natural Light in Your Home

Having natural light indoors not only saves on electricity bills but also helps to create a more warm and inviting home. If you are like most people - especially over the past couple of years with the pandemic and lockdown rules - you spend the majority of your time indoors.  Whether you work from home or it’s particularly hot or cold outside, it’s nice to have a home with nat...

5 Home Renovations Mistakes to Avoid (With Pro Tips)

Who doesn't love 'before and after' renovation photos? It always looks so easy! But what we often don't see is what happens between these two snapshots. Transforming your home can be fraught with tears, heartache and costly mistakes. While some of this is just part of the renovation journey, it is possible to save yourself from major disasters. We've consulted our brand ambassadors, Shann...

Top 5 Tips for Selling Your Home

Listing your home on the market can be a hectic time, but a little planning and research can go a long way to a successful sale. You want to create competition for your home and ultimately achieve a higher sales price. While you may love your property as it is, you need to make sure that it's properly prepared to attract the right buyer. Be ready to roll up the sleeves and get it looking in t...

The Ultimate Guide to Strata Fees

Apartments offer affordable and easy living. But while you may not have a backyard to mow, the building and its surrounds still need to be maintained. All of this costs money.Strata fees are mandatory contributions paid by owners with properties located in a unit, villa, townhouse or duplex complex. The amount paid can vary from building to building. A low levy may seem attractive when buy...

To Renovate or Not to Renovate When Selling

Do you renovate before you sell, or just put it on the market as is? The answer isn't a simple yes or no, but a maybe. There are many things to consider before being able to make a call. So how to know if you should put in the time, effort and dollars into renovating before selling? Must-do home improvements when selling Without the shadow of a doubt, having a well-presented property when loo...

What Is A Property Appraisal ?

Understanding how your property's worth is determined is critical How to use competitive properties to work out how much your property is worth Spend time inspecting similar properties that are currently on the market, however do be aware that their asking price does not necessarily equal true market value. The most consideration should be given to properties that have SOLD in the past six mo...

What Are Virtual Property Appraisals (And How Do They Work) ?

As more and more aspects of our lives migrate online, real estate recently picked up its pace and adopted digital tools to offer consumers a better experience. As a result, 3D tours, virtual inspections, online auctions or even virtual staging have now become commonplace. And so have virtual property appraisals.But what is a virtual property appraisal? Simply put, it is a vi...

How Local Agents Provide Value & What Questions You Should Ask

Finding the right agent to sell your property is a big decision. As your home is probably your most valuable asset, choosing the right agent has a direct impact on how quickly you sell, how many potential buyers are interested in your property and how much you sell for.One of the most important criteria to consider is whether the agent is active in your local area.  Their local knowledge a...

The Definitive Guide to Adding Value To Your Home

It is a good idea to add value to your home before selling. Making small improvements will give your property a fresh, new look and increase your chances of getting the best return. Adding value to your home does not have to involve breaking the bank with expensive renovations. You can easily boost your property’s value on a budget with some simple yet effective DIY hacks that will incre...

A Guide To Preparing Your Home For a Spring Sale

Spring is an excellent time to sell your property for a variety of reasons. As the seller, you will want to prepare your home the right way. This will give you the best chance of attracting great buyers, achieving a higher sales price, and, ultimately, locking in a successful sale.In this guide, we explain why spring is a great time to put your property on the market, and we explore specific st...

A Guide To Investment Property Tax Deductions

Buying a rental property is an exciting investment, but to make the most of it, you also need to understand how to maximise the tax benefits.And while terms such as 'negative gearing' and 'capital gains exemption' may seem complicated, it is important to take the time to do the research and see how this can be applied to your property. You may just discover some deductibles you have overlooked....

How To Reduce Your Electric Bill This Winter (and Year-Round)

When winter comes and it’s freezing cold outdoors, there is nothing better than cosying up in front of the heater. That is until your next electricity bill lands in your inbox. It is not uncommon for your power bill to surge a couple of hundred dollars during the cooler months. So how to reduce your electric bill and save money?The first step is to compare electricity providers to make su...

Apartments..... Are They a Good investment?

Not so long ago there was a belief that it was better to invest in a house or duplex rather than an apartment.  The reason being the value of the investment was perceived to be in the land, so investors focused on buying houses where the land value would appreciate for years to come.However, with the rapidly increasing population, a growing trend of people preferring to live in apartments ...

5 Tips for Keeping Your House Warm This Winter

It's that time of the year again when we are putting on our beanies, zipping up our jackets and keeping our hands in our pockets!! Homeowners may be finding it hard to keep the heat in and the cold out, but luckily, we’re here the share our tips for staying toasty warm throughout the June-August period, and without raising those energy prices. 1. Rug upIf you’ve got hardwood floors...

A Guide To Selling a House With a Mortgage

We all dream about being mortgage-free, but in reality, it takes most of us a very long time to pay off a home loan.So, how do you sell your house when technically you co-own it with the bank? While it may sound tricky, it is surprisingly simple to navigate. Even with a mortgage, you can still sell a home and allow yourself to upgrade, downsize or leave the market altogether.It is important to ...

A Guide To Getting Ready To Buy a House

When is the right time to buy a house? For some, that is the million-dollar question. There are many signs that can indicate a person’s readiness to buy a home, but there are also others that might suggest one should not buy a property, at least for now. To make a financially sound decision, it is important to be open and honest. By taking the time to look at the key indicators, you will...

575,000 Reasons To Book Your Property Appraisal

2021 was a monumental year for the property markets around Australia. Houses sold for record prices, days on the market were reduced, and even settlement periods were slashed. All of this indicated a huge demand to buy homes and then move in reasonably fast. This trend hasn't slowed down this year. So are you looking for a reason to sell in 2022? In 2021, 575,000 homes were sold, with many own...

How To Buy a Home as a Couple?

Are you ready to take the next step in your relationship and buy your first home as a couple? If such a project appears very exciting on paper, it generally also comes with its share of hoops and hurdles. No matter the intensity and depth of the love you share, reality can be slightly less glamorous than what you might have expected.When buying a home with a partner, it isn't all rainbows and u...

Making Compromises as a Buyer

Every buyer has a wish list of things they are looking for in a dream home. Usually this consists of needs and wants, with compromises needing to be made along the way. But what do you decide to compromise on when buying, and what should you avoid compromising on? We explore what you should or shouldn’t compromise on when purchasing a home. Location Location can be tricky as it has ...

A Guide To Adding Plants To Your Home

Indoor plants have become an important part of interior decorating, and with good reason. Adding plants to your home has been shown to have many health benefits, such as lifting moods and reducing stress.Even better, most varieties only need watering every one to three weeks. So they deliver a lot of positivity for little commitment. And they look fabulous too!  Why are plants good for yo...

What to Expect on Auction Day

We’ve all seen the drama of an auction on TV - the auctioneer with their quick fire speech, waving hands and pointing fingers.  But what actually happens in the lead up to the auction and on the day. Understanding this process and the key auction terms is critical if you are selling your property at auction. Before auction day The very nature of an auction means that they can happe...

How To Prepare Your Home for Autumn

Autumn is here, and just as you start to put the layers on as temperatures fall, your home might need a few more layers too.That's why we created the autumn home checklist. Now that cooler months have arrived, what do you need to do for your property? 1. Keep the heat in Autumn is the time when temperatures start to fall, so we want to keep in all the heat that we can. Jus...

How To Get Your Home Ready To Sell

Achieving top dollar for your property could be easier than you think if you are prepared to do some research and put in a little extra effort.Gone are the days when a simple photo of your house in the newspaper was enough to clinch a winning deal. Digital-savvy potential buyers are now far more discerning, and it’s important not to cut corners when getting your property ready for sale.&n...

How Not to Over Capitalise on Your Home Renovation

For the majority of us, our home is our most valuable asset. Many Australians choose to stay and renovate their home rather than sell. Yet, it is still essential that you consider whether your renovation will add value or make you lose money in the long run.As a home owner, when it comes time to sell, your focus will be on ensuring you make the most amount of money from the sale. But if you hav...

The Simple Ways You Can Improve The Curb Appeal of Your House

When it comes to selling a house, there are many things to consider. With so many tasks on the agenda, sellers can forget a major component: curb appeal. With curb appeal offering buyers a window into your home, the importance of first impressions cannot be overstated.  Curb appeal sets expectations for buyers. If the outside of the house is rundown, they will expect the same inside. If t...

Preparing Your Property For a Summer Sale

Selling your home in summer is all about showcasing the exterior of your property and making the most of your garden and outdoor areas, even your balcony.Buyers are looking for lifestyle so help them to imagine lazy weekends, entertaining with friends or cooking up the perfect barbecue in the backyard. But before you start making any major changes such as decking, landscaping or adding a pool t...

7 Tips For Keeping Cool This Summer

There’s nowhere quite like Australia in summer — we’re famous for our beaches, cricket and backyard barbies. But to enjoy this season, we have to combat the high temperatures and the sun that’s heating our homes.Here are 7 easy tips that will help you keep cool all summer. You’ll be surprised at what you can do without breaking a sweat.  1. Turn off the light...

How Do Online Real Estate Auctions Work

In a COVID-19 world, after the ban of public inspections and auctions, the real estate market had to adapt and make the switch to a primarily digital environment. Online real estate auctions have been around for years. However, with a newfound necessity for this method of sale, home buyers stand to receive a new level of convenience and ease of bidding for their dream property.Easy to organise,...

The 5 Considerations You Need To Make When Upsizing Your Home

If you have outgrown your current home, are planning to expand your family or simply want more room to accommodate guests, then it might be time to upsize. Upsizing your home refers to moving to a larger house than the one you currently occupy. Whether that’s a property with more square footage, a larger backyard or a multi-storey home, the main benefits of upsizing is more space and com...

Buying or Selling: 10 Essential Questions to Ask Your Agent

Selling or buying a property, whether it is your home or an investment property, likely involves one of the biggest assets you will own. A real estate agent can be your best guide and partner throughout this major transaction, advising you on market, compliance, and other issues. They can ensure you are receiving or paying a fair price for your property and you are aware of all the vital facts ...

How to Stage Your Home to Sell (With Tips)

Whether you are listing a small apartment or a stately mansion, knowing how to stage your home to sell is essential to win over prospective buyers.It might sound like added work or expense, but it can make a significant difference – adding an estimated five to 10 per cent to the final sale price. Moreover, if money isn't incentive enough, research shows staged homes tend to spend less tim...

Top 10 Moving House Tips

Congratulations, you are moving to a new place! Now comes a job more exhausting than selling a house or getting ready for a landlord inspection, and that is moving.That’s right. Take a look around and, in a matter of just a few short weeks, every possession in your home has to be packed, boxed and loaded out of there. Even if moving day is far away, don’t be complacent as time has a...

How To Add Value to Your Home On a Budget

Even on a budget, there is a fair bit you can do in a home when it comes to giving it a fresh, new look. If you are planning to sell soon, then maybe prioritise the kitchen and bathroom which are rooms that can make or break a sale.Also, remember that depending on the brand you pick, the material, and of course the size of a room, the cost of any renovation can vary from one extreme to another....

A Guide to Preparing Your Home For a Spring Sale

Spring is an excellent time to sell your property for a variety of reasons. As the seller, you will want to prepare your home the right way. This will give you the best chance of attracting great buyers, achieving a higher sales price, and, ultimately, locking in a successful sale.In this guide, we explain why spring is a great time to put your property on the market, and we explore specific st...

One Week to Moving Day Checklist

The big moving day is almost finally here! Likely, you are probably feeling a mix of emotions from anxiety and excitement through to impatience for the day to arrive. You’re probably running on little sleep too, so don’t pack the coffee machine into the removal box just yet. Here are some last-minute jobs you may have overlooked that are essential to make the move as smooth and...

5 Signs You're Ready to Buy

You feel it in your fingers, you feel it in your toes: The property market is humming. As the construction of new homes keeps on moving up across the country, more and more homes are likely to become available in your area.But how do you know if you're actually ready to buy? Let's take a look at the five things you need to know before you take the plunge and buy that home - are you prepared to ...

7 Tips to Prepare Your Entrance for a Sale

Create a great first impression You don't get a second chance to make a first impression and this is even more important when you are selling.  By spending a few hours improving the entrance you can create the right energy the moment buyers see your home for the first time - after all you want them to imagine themselves walking through your front door everyday, you want them to be passion...

15 Eco-Friendly Ways To Spring Clean Your Home

Wipe away the winter cobwebs with a sensation spring clean. Go beyond vacuuming, dusting and bench wiping to give your whole home a fresh feel for the warm months ahead. Making your own environmentally friendly cleaning products to use around the home is not only cost effective but better for your health.In this guide, we share 15 eco-friendly ways to spring clean the kitchen, the bathroom, the...

The Importance of Pre-Settlement Inspections

It’s finally happened: you’ve bought your dream home and the contract has almost settled – congratulations! But there’s still one more thing you need to do: the pre-settlement inspection. A pre-settlement inspection is your opportunity to make sure everything in the property is in order before the final payment is made. This is your chance to make sure the property is in...

How to Increase Your Home’s Sale Price

It’s often the first question on a seller’s mind: how much can I get for my property? Ultimately, your agent’s job is to try and maximise your property’s sale outcome but there are a few things you can do to help them. We’ve had a chat with our in-house property experts to find out their top tips for helping you increase your home’s sale price. Clean ...

How To Set Up an Office at Home

Since the World Health Organization declared the rapidly spreading Covid-19 outbreak a pandemic, more and more companies have taken proactive, precautionary measures and asked their employees to work from home. But how can you set up an office at home that will allow you to stay productive?When working from home, temptations are everywhere and take many forms, giving you plenty of excuses to ge...

Everything To Know About Making an Offer on a Property

You have found your dream property, gotten all the necessary checks done, and are ready to make an offer. It can truly be an exciting process. But it can also be quite a stressful one. So, having a solid understanding of the buying process, including what steps you need to take, can boost your confidence and your bargaining power. The first thing you need to know is that if you are making an o...

Top 5 Things to Consider when Downsizing

Making the decision to downsize from a large property to a smaller one is a big step. More than just moving homes, downsizing involves a lifestyle change. So in order to make the right decision for you and your family, it is important to do some research. Recently growing in popularity, downsizing encompasses everything from moving from a large house to a smaller house,  apartment, villa,...

How Savvy Investors Minimise Land Tax

Tax is one of the few certainties in life and yet it is notorious for eating away at hard-earned profits. Property investors know this all too well, but some savvy investors have learnt a few tricks to minimise their land tax. Here are five property investor secrets to keeping hold of as much capital as possible. Careful PurchasingClever investors have learnt that purchasing property in the na...

3 Reno Projects That Add Value

If your home is feeling a tad dated and you’ve been thinking of selling, you may be wondering if it’s worth doing a renovation. It’s true that renos can be costly, but they can also add immense value and result in a higher sale price for your property. But how much should you commit to and where? We look at what you should spend and why, as well as the three reno projects whic...

It's Time to Invest

You may have seen in the news that it’s a great time to sell or even buy a home. But if you’re settled, love where you live and have no plans for a personal change, then you’ve likely tuned out all this noise. However, did you know that there is still a way that you can make the most of the favourable market conditions? Investing – and there are a few reasons why it&rsqu...

How To Sell Your Home For More

If you are looking to cash in on the property surge, these are the expert tips on how to get your best price. If working from home in 2020 taught us anything, it is that we really don’t need to live within commuting distance of the office anymore. In fact, the pandemic sparked a property boom as many Australians packed up and cashed in for that sea or tree change and interest rates remai...

How to Prepare and Bid Wisely at Your First Auction Day

Buying a home can be nerve wracking. Throw an auction into the mix and many think of it as figures flying through the air, an auctioneer talking at the speed of light and paddles going up left, right and centre which could be downright frightening. But, it doesn’t have to be! If you’re well-prepared financially, mentally and emotionally, auctions can actually be a pretty exciting ...

End of Financial Year Health Check

  READY TO RECEIVE YOUR END OF FINANCIAL YEAR HEALTH CHECK? When you know the facts about the value of your most important asset you can make smarter decisions that more positively affect your current and future financial wellbeing. A property appraisal is an easy, informal and essential process if you’re thinking about selling, or just curious about the value of your most impor...

6 Tips For Selling Your Home in Winter

You might be wondering if winter is a bad time to sell you home, but people look for property to buy at all times of the year. In fact, selling your house in winter can even have its own benefits.In this blog post, we share 6 tips for selling your home in winter and make sure that you will keep the price hot despite the cold weather.  1. Make sure it is ready for warm living The spring s...

How To Declutter Your Home To Sell

With all the effort you are putting into listing your property, it is crucial that you maximise your chances to get the best price. Decluttering your house before selling is a great way to stack the odds in your favour and find the best buyer. By removing excess furniture and personal belongings, you can showcase your home's features and make each room look its best. But how to declutter your h...

Property Price Hikes Continue

  Property Price Hikes Continue with a 2% May Increase for Brisbane There’s no end in sight for the housing market boom in Brisbane, with CoreLogic’s research director, Tim Lawless reporting that Brisbane saw a further 2% increase in house prices in May. This was in line with the national average of 2.2% which was a significant rise from April’s 1.8%, but lower than th...

Why Rentvest and How To Do It

Rentvesting is a trend that is picking up, particularly amongst younger first home buyers in metro areas. So what exactly does this term mean, and how can you figure out if it is for you? Find out below.   What are rentvestors? Rentvestors are people who rent the property they live in but are investors in the real estate market. The property they purchased might be in a completely d...

Understanding Property Appraisals

A Homeowner’s Guide To Understanding Property Appraisals   A property appraisal is a great way to find out what the local property market is doing at that point in time, and is an important step to understand your true net worth.  Has your local property market fluctuated, have you recently renovated, are you interested in investing, are you looking to upsize or downsize?...

Federal Budget 2021/22

A big spending budget that focuses on jobs and economic recovery The premise of the 2021/22 Federal Budget is about getting more people back into work and strengthening the Australian economy in response to the global challenges caused by Covid.  There is more money for businesses, households, and infrastructure. However, the success of the government’s economic recovery ...

Are Apartments a Good Investment?

Not so long ago there was a belief that it was better to invest in a house or duplex rather than an apartment.  The reason being the value of the investment was perceived to be in the land, so investors focused on buying houses where the land value would appreciate for years to come.However, with the rapidly increasing population, a growing trend of people preferring to live in apartments ...

Downsizing Without Downgrading

Downsizing is more than moving home. It is embarking on a new journey that brings exciting lifestyle changes. Making informed decisions and understanding exactly how you will make this shift is an important first step. Whether you are an empty-nester, seeking a “sea change” or simply have new lifestyle needs, our guide offers an easy roadmap for realising your downsizing dreams. ...

Mount Gravatt East Property Market Boom!

  Is this southeast city suburb becoming one of the most sought-after in Brisbane? Over the last three months from January to March in 2021, Mount Gravatt East has seen prices soar. With record sales, standout properties, and large quantities of buyers at open homes, we believe this suburb could be becoming one of the most sought-after in the region. We've put together an overview of pr...

Why now is the time to Auction property in Brisbane

Auctions Proving More Lucrative for Sellers With soaring buyer demand and a lack of properties for sale in Brisbane, it’s clear that it’s a sellers’ market - no matter what method vendors use to sell their homes. However, auctions have long been held as the best way to maximise the results of a sale, but this has been especially true recently. Given how active the market curr...

10 Best Ways To Add Equity To Your Home

How do you boost the resale value of your home? Should you add another bedroom, build a pool or a granny flat, or would a garage be better?While it seems tempting to just go all out and add any feature you can think of, it's important to remember that not every home renovation is going to actually benefit you when the time comes to sell. You need to focus on changes to your home that suit the l...

Why There’s Never Been a Better Time to Sell

It’s a remarkable time for real estate with many Brisbane residents finding out that their homes are worth more than ever before. Despite a crazy 2020, the market is seeing plenty of activity, and yet there is a shortage of stock and an overabundance of buyers. This has provided sellers with an incredible opportunity to finally sell and pursue their dreams of downsizing, upsizing, moving ...

How To Get The Most Money Selling Your House

When someone decides to sell their property, their sights are often set on one goal: getting the best price. This may seem like a straightforward aim, however, there are lots of smaller moving parts to achieving this. Read on to discover how to get the best price for your home, as well as tips to boost the end result even when your home is already on the market.  How to get the best price...

Merger to Bring Added Benefits

We have some exciting news: LJ Hooker Mount Gravatt is merging with LJ Hooker Sunnybank Hills to become LJ Hooker Property Partners. The new merger is set to bring various added benefits to LJ Hooker Mount Gravatt’s clientele.   We’ll Produce Award-Winning Marketing   Joining with LJ Hooker Sunnybank Hills means we get access to their award-winning, in-house marketing ...

Preparing your property for an autumn sale

Timing the sale of your property can make all the difference, but most importantly, it has to suit you as the seller. Often people believe that the warmer months are the best time to sell, but in truth, all seasons have their advantages. So, is autumn a good time to sell a house? Is autumn a good time to sell?  All seasons have their benefits, but autumn is a smart time to sell. Buy...

6 New Year’s Resolutions for Property Investors

The start of the year is a good time to re-think and refine your role as a landlord and set your resolutions. Here are 6 new year’s resolutions that we believe should be on all landlords ‘to do’ lists in 2021.  Resolution #1 – I will visit my investment When did you last visit your investment property to check its condition for yourself? Even a dream tenant may no...

7 New Year’s Resolutions That Can Help You Buy a Home in 2021

Are you hoping to buy a property in 2021? Here are seven new year’s resolutions that can help keep your financial resume in shape. And the fitter it is, the more chance you have to be able to buy. Resolution #1 - Clearly outline your goal Having a very specific goal is the first step to reaching it, so write down exactly what you want to achieve. For example, "buy a 1 bedroom unit near ...

What's in store for 2021?

  THE YEAR TO MOVE THE MEETING ROOM TO THE SPARE ROOM The year has been one of the most challenging, unpredictable, and life-changing in recent memory. It has seen significant disruption and change in every aspect of our lives. The way we work, socialise, exercise, and of course entertain ourselves have all shifted. Property markets have not been immune from the effect of this year&rsqu...

Brisbane Property Market Experiences Highest Recorded Price Growth!

  " MOUNT GRAVATT EAST EXPERIENCES THE HIGHEST SALE PRICE GROWTH EVER RECORDED! "   According to the Sunday Mail, Brisbane sale prices have conquered one of the market's toughest years in history to hit an all-time record high, defying dire predictions values could plummet. New figures from Queensland's peak housing industry body reveal the median house price has climbed 1.4% in th...

How To Create a Zen Home

With more and more companies embracing remote working, many people are now spending a lot of time at home. Therefore, feeling good in your house or apartment has become more crucial than ever. So how to create a zen home, a pleasant and comfortable haven in which you will be able to both work well and relax?To help you transform your interior into a peaceful cocoon, we share a few tips and some...

3 best home price negotiation strategies

Selling a home is something you can do in a number of ways. In order to achieve the best results and sale price for your individual circumstances, you need to know the different types of methods used for selling property and then work with your agent to choose the right method for you. Here’s what you need to know about the three main methods of sale and what factors influence the choice...

How to get home buyers in the door

When you’re selling your home, you need to get as many potential buyers as possible to attend your home open-for-inspection days. How you present the exterior of your property has a huge impact on buyers, as it makes your home stand out from other properties for sale in the area. Here’s how to give your home street appeal and ensure maximum attendance at your home inspections. &nb...

Marketing your home to stand out from the crowd

The housing market is extremely competitive, so if you want to know how to sell your house, you need to learn how to market it to show buyers exactly what they are looking for. Here we explain what adds value to a house, and what you can do to appeal to potential buyers to ensure you generate maximum interest and get the best possible sale price for your home. Provide ALL the information buye...

Why property styling gets you the best sales price

When you’re selling your home, professional property styling can help you achieve the best possible price. But what will a home stylist do for you? How much does home staging cost? And how much return can you expect on your investment?   We take an in-depth look at home staging, to put you in the picture.   Why house staging is important to your sale   The Australian ...

Home improvements on a budget

Is it worth renovating a house before selling? This is a question many home sellers ask, particularly if they are selling a house that needs repairs. Before you start spending, it’s essential to know the right home improvements to make before selling your home. Getting the balance right is crucial if you want to make your money back.   The right home improvements don’t need t...

3 Ways to add value to your home, pre-sale

What adds value to a house? This is a question we are frequently asked by home sellers wanting to increase home resale value. Ultimately, all sellers want to achieve the maximum sale price along with a smooth sale.   Even in a buyer’s market like we are currently experiencing, presenting your home in its best light doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. We’ve taken ...

Selling a Deceased Estate Property – Important Tasks

Selling a deceased estate can be emotional and daunting, especially if you are inheriting property from your parents. It is a complicated process to have to deal with at an already difficult time. However, with the right help and support, you can get through it.   Here are some of the essential things you need to know about winding up an estate.   How is probate obtained?   ...

21 free tools to keep kids entertained and learning online

When it comes to keeping kids entertained at home for long periods of time, there’s no shame in making the best use of the internet. Happily, there is a vast world of online learning to discover, which we can tap into any time we need.     Once everyone finds their rhythm, much teaching can take place informally on daily walks, while cooking, or over a storybook. The key ...

Selling property under duress: debt or divorce

When you have to sell your home due to debt or divorce, this can be an extremely traumatic experience. However, with the right help and advice, it is possible to get through it and move onto the next phase of your life. Here is some essential information to help you make the transition as smoothly as possible.   Selling your home due to debt   The combination of cooling in the pro...

How food and fitness have kept us sane

Even though the whole world has slowed down due to the Coronavirus, there are still food and fitness businesses in our communities doing their best to serve us and they need our continued support.   The types of businesses that managed to keep trading during the lockdowns varied. It was interesting to see a reflection on the culture of a society in the businesses that were regarded as a ...

What economists predict for property in 2nd half of 2020

There's a huge amount of uncertainty in the world at the moment and one major question mark hangs over property prices in Australia.    There's no crystal ball to allow us to tell home sellers what's going to happen, but there are a few big names in the industry making predictions.    In most cases, people are in agreement that there will be a price drop in the property ...

Perfect DIY home maintenance projects

Perfect DIY home maintenance projects There’s a joke that does the rounds every now and again: “If your husband says he will fix something around the house, he will do it. There’s no need to keep nagging him every six months.”   While this might give some people a chuckle, the truth is we all put off the cleaning and repair jobs that don’t exactly spark joy...

Buy first, or sell first? Your home conundrum answered

Buying and selling houses can be tricky, particularly if you are selling and buying a home at the same time. Should you buy a new property first, or sell your current home before purchasing a new one? It's an age-old conundrum. We take a look at the pros and cons in the light of the current housing market, to help you make the right decision. How to buy a new house in the current housing mark...

8 key steps for pre-sale home preparation

The season from September to November is generally the most popular time to sell a home. This has a number of advantages for sellers, but it is essential to start preparing your house for sale early if you want it to stand out from the many other properties on the market.   Here’s everything you need to know about getting your home ready.   Why getting your home ready for th...

Six reasons to sell property in a correcting market

Here are the most common reasons why people are continuing to sell homes in a COVID market, and why it can actually turn out to be a positive move.   Why is the property market slow? Life still presents many different reasons why people need to sell their homes. Whatever the market conditions there is no need to wait if you need a quick sale. There are huge advantages to engaging a real...

Adjusting to the new normal: better daily routines

Remember wishing you could spend more time at home? All of a sudden, our wishes are granted with the continuing COVID-19 pandemic.   But it can be easy to let one day slide into the other when you’re venturing out less. Resist the inertia by setting a daily routine for yourself that includes a mix of activities to provide more structure, productivity, and most importantly positivi...

How our weekends have changed since the pandemic

With many of us working from home during times of COVID-19 and only venturing out more as the restrictions lift, our routines have become somewhat muddled.  Sticking to a routine that involves 'you time' at the weekend is more important than ever.  Why is maintaining a ‘weekend’ important? Even if you live alone, it's important to have a clear divide between 'work time'...

COVID-19 and your property questions answered

If you are in the process of putting your home on the market, you will no doubt be wondering what COVID-19 means for your home sale. Here are some common questions we are hearing right now. Please get in touch if you have more.   Can I still sell my house?    Yes. Homes continue to go on the market, but while restrictions are in place real estate agents will be leveraging mor...

Are local property sales still affected by COVID-19?

There's a huge amount of uncertainty in the world at the moment and one major question mark hangs over property prices in Australia.    There's no crystal ball to allow us to tell home sellers what's going to happen, but there are a few statistics that start to paint a picture of how mild the effects have been on property and prices since COVID-19.   So far, the impact of COV...

5 Benefits of using virtual staging to sell your home

The working-from-home revolution has propelled online activity into a new era as people become increasingly comfortable not having to be ‘in person’ for work meetings to catching up with friends and everything in between. Digital tools to sell, buy, and rent a home have also become the norm, contributing to better consumer experiences, especially when they are remote to where t...

Styling to Sell

You never get a second chance to make a first impression! When you think about selling your home, one of the first things you should do is walk through the property with fresh eyes, imagining you are a potential buyer...  How does your home look – is it welcoming, light, and spacious? Is it clean and well cared for or cluttered and dusty? Can people easily imagine themselves living...

How to Best Negotiate a Sale

A private treaty sale occurs when a property is listed for sale with an asking price, the buyer makes an offer to the agent, who then presents the offer to the seller, who can then decide whether or not to accept the offer. Typically negotiations go back and forth between the buyer and seller (via the real estate agent) until an agreed price is reached. How can you negotiate a deal before som...

How to Save Money on your Power Bill in Winter

When the weather starts to cool down, we appreciate the comforts of home more than ever. There is something extra-special about being inside, in a pleasant and cosy environment. But how to make sure to keep your home warm without breaking the bank? There are a few things you can do to limit your expenses. In this blog post, we share 5 tips on how to save money on your power bill in winter. &n...

34 Elgar Street Holland Park

We asked the owners what it's like living in the renowned Holland Park. Here is what they had to say...   “Holland Park is great! Everything is at your fingertips, from the park across the street to the cute cafes and local shops. Our favourite is Stomp Café on Holland Road, right next to the school – best coffee”.   “The public transpo...

5 Things to Look For to Find the Right Real Estate Agent

Life is full of meaningful moments and selling (or buying) a home is one of them. It can also be a stressful time, both emotionally and financially. This is why it is crucial to find the right real estate agent to take care of the sale. But how do you know when you have found the right agent for you? To help you pick the one who will make your selling journey a smooth, stress-free and successf...

A Winter Checklist for a Cosy and Warm Home

Winter is here, but instead of using the cold weather as an excuse to stay on the couch, why not take care of your home and make it cosier. Here is a checklist of jobs to help keep you warm, entertain the kids, care for your pets and make the most of being indoors as the temperatures drop.  Make your kitchen comfy If your cooking space is a bit on the chilly side, add a rug to warm up yo...

COVID-19 - Should I sell?

Can I sell my home during COVID-19? Yes, you can still sell your home or investment property. The new rules to contain the spread of the coronavirus may have changed some of the ways we buy and sell real estate, but it is still business as usual. The industry has adjusted and made the switch to a virtual environment. From now on, and for as long as the COVID-19 restrictions are in place, mos...

COVID-19 - Is now a good time to buy?

How can I buy a home during COVID-19? Yes, you can still buy a home or an investment property. Because of the COVID-19 restrictions, you should even get access to more information than ever to help you make the best decision. Most sellers will create virtual tours for their properties and offer live viewings, as it will become the norm. If you find your dream home, or if you would like to kn...

COVID-19 - What about my rental property?

What does the 6-month moratorium on evictions mean for tenants? The 6-month moratorium means safety and security for tenants. It prevents landlords from evicting people unable to pay rent due to financial distress as a result of the COVID-19 environment. If you have exhausted all financial relief subsidies and are still falling short, you will still have the comfort of knowing that your home i...

COVID-19 - Real Estate Guide

  Whether you are looking to sell, buy, or rent a property, the confusion around COVID-19 has only increased over the last few weeks. But the real estate industry managed to adjust at a rapid pace and switched to a mostly digital environment. So what is possible or not in a COVID-19 environment? How can things be done? And who can help me? In this guide, we will look at the impact of the...

Super: an answer to affordability?

There has been a lot of debate about this, but not many have offered a practical approach to solve this problem. I think, allowing first home buyers regulated access to their superannuation, could be the way forward. Here are practical proposals on how superannuation could assist first home buyers:   1.    Allow first home buyers access to their superannuation balance by way o...

How to Know You Found the One

House hunting is a bit like online dating. You might get a few matches, but how to know you found THE one you want to buy? Even if it feels right, doubt can be part of the equation. Buying a home is a big commitment, which is why it is entirely normal to feel a bit shaky when the time comes to make an offer. But when you know, you know, and you might very well be 100% ready...

How to set up an office at home

Since the World Health Organization declared the rapidly spreading Covid-19 outbreak a pandemic, more and more companies have taken proactive, precautionary measures and asked their employees to work from home. But how can you set up an office at home that will allow you to stay productive? When working from home, temptations are everywhere and take many forms, giving you plenty of excuses...

10 tips on how to be a successful investor

What makes one investor better than another?  Here are 10 tried and true steps successful investors use to help steer their decisions and to help themget the most out of their investment. 1. Do Your Homework Nothing makes for a better investment foundation than solid research and a sound understanding of the property market. Start reading property investing blogs, scour ...

Where to splurge when selling

If you’re looking at selling undoubtedly a key priority will be to make the most amount of money possible.  But the flip side of this is you will need to spendsome money preparing your home for sale.  But where should you spend your money, where should you splurge knowing it will make a difference to yoursale price? Splurge in your Kitchen The kitchen is the one room that ...

What not to do on Auction day!

You may think that’s a weird topic, but understanding the big NO NO's is important. Auctions are by nature emotionally charged but keeping your wits about you and avoiding these pitfalls will help you navigate the auction day without any hiccups.     1.    Don’t talk about your selling price to anyone including the neighbours I know it...

10 Questions to ask a home loan consultant

Are you looking to get a home loan but not sure where to start?  Here are 10 important questions to ask home loan lenders to ensure you are choosing the right partner for you and one that is best aligned to your individual circumstances. The comparison rate is the rate that helps you work out the true cost of a loan.  It helps you assess the interest rate plus most fee...

4 key reasons why your home isn’t selling?

So your property has been on the market for a while, all the media you’re reading is saying properties are being snapped up left, right and centre, so why isn’t your place selling?  This is a common question but the answers aren’t that much of a mystery.     Here’s a look at four of the most common reasons why properties don’t sell.  ...

Part 3 - What's in store for 2020?

  THE YEAR OF THE EVERYDAY AUSTRALIAN It was a tale of two markets last year, pre and post-election. Leading up to the federal election, in May 2019, confidence had been dented by the banking royal commission and debate around proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions. These two factors, combined with tighter bank lending practices, saw buyers pull back f...

Part 2 - What's in store for 2020?

  THE YEAR OF THE EVERYDAY AUSTRALIAN It was a tale of two markets last year, pre and post-election. Leading up to the federal election, in May 2019, confidence had been dented by the banking royal commission and debate around proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions. These two factors, combined with tighter bank lending practices, saw buyers pull back f...

Part 1 - What's in store for 2020?

THE YEAR OF THE EVERYDAY AUSTRALIAN It was a tale of two markets last year, pre and post-election. Leading up to the federal election, in May 2019, confidence had been dented by the banking royal commission and debate around proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax concessions. These two factors, combined with tighter bank lending practices, saw buyers pull back from the ma...

7 Tips for keeping cool this Summer

There’s nowhere quite like Australia in summer — we’re famous for our beaches, cricket, and backyard barbies. But to enjoy summer, we have to combat the high temperatures and the sun that’s heating our homes. Here are some easy tips from our Summer Checklist. You’ll be surprised at what you can do without breaking a sweat.   1. Turn off the l...

How Much is Your Property Worth?

Knowing how much your property is worth is the first and most important step towards completing a successful sales transaction.  Our agents offer free market appraisals which are informal estimates of what your home may be worth.  This is determined by analyzing a home, recent neighbourhood home sales results, current market trends, plus other factors such as the agen...

How To Prepare Your Home For Santa's Visit

Prepping for Mr Claus and his eight tiny reindeer Santa and his eight tiny reindeer will be on their way to your house soon, so it is imperative you take a few necessary precautions to protect your home and furniture. But even more importantly, ensure Santa, Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Comet, Cupid, Donner and Blitzen have an enjoyable and safe visit. In th...

How Local Agents Provide Value

Finding the right agent to sell your property is a big decision. As your home is probably your most valuable asset, choosing the right agent has a direct impact on how quickly you sell, how many potential buyers are interested in your property and how much you sell for. One of the most important criteria to consider is whether the agent is active in your local area.  Their local k...

A Complete Guide to Selling your Property by Auction

What is an auction? How do you choose the best agent? How do you create the best marketing plan for auction? How do you set a reserve price? What should you expect on auction day? What is an auctioneers' job and the rules of an auction? What not to do on auction day!     Auctions are one of the oldest forms of selling property, their history spans centuries and time has o...

How to Best Negotiate a Private Treaty Sale

A private treaty sale occurs when a property is listed for sale with an asking price, the buyer makes an offer to the agent, who then presents the offer to the seller, who can then decide whether or not to accept the offer. Typically negotiations go back and forth between the buyer and seller (via the real estate agent) until an agreed price is reached. How can you negotiate a deal bef...

You Have 1 Week Left to List Your Home This Year

So, you’ve been thinking about putting your home on the market... but the timing never seems right. We get it, life moves fast! It’s already the beginning of November and the holidays will be here before you know it. Entertaining guests, traveling, and spending time with family during this season is stressful enough that you can't even fathom the thought of potential buyers walkin...

Why Renovating Your Bathroom Can Boost Home Value

The bathroom is one of the most profitable rooms to renovate. However, it can be a huge undertaking, costing unprepared investors thousands of dollars.  With potential returns of $4 for every $1 spent, to make the most of this room it’s crucial not to overcapitalise. Yet, as one of the most expensive renovation projects of a property, those on a budget need to spend strategi...

7 Accounts You Should Follow On Instagram If You Love HGTV

We ❤ HGTV. We also love Instagram. Instead of binge-watching House Hunters all day, we found inspiration on Instagram that will make your feed instantly better. Below are 7 accounts we follow on Instagram that you should follow if you love HGTV. 1. Sherwin Williams | @sherwinwilliams Looking for inspiration to redo a room in your home? Sher...

The Right & Wrong Way To Host & Attend Open Houses

Open houses are a huge part of both the buying and selling process. You might be hesitant to host or attend one because they can be painfully awkward. Walking around your potential new home with a real estate agent following you from room to room isn't the most comfortable experience, especially if there are parts of the home you don't like or the home is in not-so-great condition.  As ...

How Long You Should Live In Your Home Before You Sell It

Whether you just moved in or have lived in your home for 50 years, it's common to wonder how long you should stay in your home before you sell it. According to national research, ten years is the average amount of time that a homeowner will stay in their home before deciding to sell it.  If you're under ten years and itching to sell, many experts say you should follow the “five-ye...

The Emotional Side of Home Selling

The decision to sell your home isn’t an easy one. In fact, research has ranked selling a home as second to relationship breakups for the most stressful experience in a person’s life. The same survey said Australians are more stressed out about selling their home than planning a wedding, getting fired or even becoming a parent. In other words, it’s perfectly normal to have s...

14 Ways to Prepare the Outside of Your Home to Sell

We all know the importance of good kerb appeal. It draws people in off the street and can make your home a bright star in your neighbourhood. But what about when you live in a flashy area or are struggling to get traction during the sale process, even with what you think is kerb appeal maxed out to the limit? Not everyone can find instant success with the standard moves for improving a...

5 Things You’ll Wish You Knew Before Buying Your First Home

We know that the home buying process is daunting, and it might seem like you have a million tasks on your plate. Everyone is giving you advice, but what should you really spend your time worrying about? We asked a recent first-time homebuyer what she wishes she knew before she bought her home. Here are the 5 pieces of advice she thought were worth sharing.   Take Your Time With Mortg...

Renovating Your Investment Property: How to Know the Right Time and Circumstances

Buying an investment property requires a lot of thought, as does deciding whether or not to renovate. When buying an investment property, there is a tendency to fall into the notion that changes need to be made in order to make a property not only more appealing but also more liveable. What investors need to take into account is that while their investment properties might not tick all...

How we turned a nightmare tenancy into a profitable investment

Have you ever faced an uncomfortable situation where nothing you can do will fix it? Many landlords have been in tough spots when it comes to things like late rent, unruly tenants and broken rules. What adds to the distress, though, is when family or friends are mixed with business. While it may seem simpler to handle tenants on your own, especially when you know them and there’s no rea...

6 Benefits of downsizing

Downsizing has a number of key benefits not just for empty nesters, but for us all as living large doesn’t always mean bigger is better. If you love saving money, energy, resources and enjoy saving time on the upkeep of a home, downsizing your home may be the answer.  Here are 6 benefits of selling up and moving into something smaller. 1) Less stuff There's a problem with ...

10 mistakes first home buyers make

How exciting you’ve you decided to embark down the road of home ownership!  You’re probably finding that everyone is giving you advice whether you want it or not… from your parents, friends, work colleagues and anyone else you ask. Whilst you’ll receive loads of advice on what to do, we wanted to share some of the pitfalls – some of the things you sh...

5 Step property investment performance review

Before you can create a strategy to maximize your property investment returns, you need to understand how it’s currently performing.  Are you generating the right rental income, are you claiming all the right tax deductions, what’s the condition of your property, is there an opportunity to improve rental yield through renovations and have you protected your asset? Here...

5 Quick Tips: How to research the real estate market

Whether you are looking to buy a new home or your next investment property, doing your research is critical, but knowing where to start can be tricky.  Here is a look at some of the resources you have available at your fingertips and others that you can explore on foot.  1. Reliable market data sources There are many resources you can tap into to access market data for different...

Federal budget 2019/20 and impact on property

Delivered in the shadow of an election, the 2019/20 federal budget was always going offer more sweeteners than tough decisions. This year’s budget headlines ‘a return to surplus’, while major personal tax cuts and large infrastructure projects make up the policy position of the government moving forward. However, given the new measures outlined will not be debated or legisl...

What does your money get you in Brisbane?

  $300,000 - $400,000 8/26 Norton Street Upper Mount Gravatt 2 bed | 2.5 bath | 1 car | $349,000+ THE OWNERS HAVE MADE THEIR INSTRUCTIONS CLEAR – PRESENTING ALL OFFERS THIS APARTMENT WILL BE SOLD. DON'T MISS YOUR OPPORTUNITY & CALL TODAY!  Perfect for investment, or to live in, this is a rare opportunity to secure a quality apartment in Upper Mount Gravatt. Cu...

The Hidden Costs Of Selling Your Home With Online Agents

Getting your home sold in just one day with multiple offers might sound too good to be true, but these days there are many start-ups and tech-backed companies promising to do just that. They guarantee a sale in a certain time period, buy the house directly from you, or offer a platform where you accept and review online bids from buyers. It sounds like a dream come true, right? Unfortu...

The 5 Most Instagram Worthy Places Near You

From architecture to local art, Instagram is the best place to give your favorite spots in town some love. Whether you're an avid blogger or just starting out on the gram, these are spots you don't want to miss.   Check us out on Instagram @ljhookermtgravatt View Our Instagram   Homes are popul...

Is Selling Your Home Right Now A Mistake?

Ask any real estate agent how the market is and you’re almost sure to get the same answer: “Great!” Even if the market is great, it still may not be a great time for you to sell. Many real estate agents will tell you that NOW is the right time to sell your home when in reality, they can’t know that without knowing the specifics of your situation. Before goin...

10 Homes For Sale With Beautiful Kitchens

Did you know that we spend more than 300 hours per year in our kitchens*? When you’re looking for a new home (or just dreaming about one), the kitchen can be the room that makes the biggest impact. If a kitchen has outdated appliances, a weird layout, or is noticeably cramped, you definitely notice it. Whether you like throwing big dinner parties or the only appliances you use are the...

Should YOU Love It or List It?

Despite what real estate reality shows might have led you to believe, the decision to sell your home isn’t simple — and it definitely isn’t a decision that you can reach in 30 minutes. This is true even if you never really loved your property in the first place, or it’s become a daily cause of stress. Maybe the commute is awful, your neighbours live to find new ways to...

LJ Hooker Top 5 Brisbane Sales

  Home sales (and values) in the inner southeast of Brisbane  have been holding strong. Take a look at the Top 5 Sales made  by LJ Hooker in the last 3 months.   20 Mayfair Close Wishart   5 BED |  3 BATH |  3 CAR | 857m2 $1,056,000 Sold on 21 Dec 2018 by Kos Comino  Privately tucked away in a peaceful cul-de-sac of Wishart, t...

3 reasons why autumn is the ideal time to sell a house

So, when is the ideal time to sell a house? It’s a question we ask ourselves year after year and all the articles we read mention different seasons. But why do we never hear that autumn being the ideal time? Autumn boasts beautiful coloured landscapes, cool temperatures and is the perfect time of year for visiting the local cafes. But what we don’t hear is that it is also a great...

7 habits of tax smart property investors

Are you doing all seven of these tax-smart initiatives?  1. Declare all income Any income you receive when you rent out your property must be declared on your tax return. 2. Keep proof of all expenses Any time you spend money on your investment property, you should keep proof of expenditure, such as a receipt. 3. Track when you use your rental for private use If you, your family ...

End of Summer Checklist

Preparing for the Season Change The sun's starting to set earlier, doonas are coming back onto the bed, you'll even occasionally have to sleep with the window closed - that's right, unfortunately summer is starting to draw to a close. That's going to be exciting news for many of us though, as autumn can bring some incredible moments of undisturbed golden calm and beauty. Evergreen trees sta...

10 Improvements to boost the value of your home

How do you boost the resale value of your home? Should you add another bedroom, build a pool or a granny flat, or would a garage be better? While it seems tempting to just go all out and add any feature you can think of, it's important to remember that not every home renovation is going to actually benefit you when the time comes to sell. You need to focus on changes to your home that suit ...

10 Questions You Should Be Asking Your Agent

What is the value of a local agent and what questions should you ask? Finding the right agent to sell your property is a big decision. As your home is probably your most valuable asset, choosing the right agent has a direct impact on how quickly you sell, how many potential buyers are interested in your property and how much you sell for. One of the most important criteria to consider ...

Top 5 Issues to shape the real estate market for 2019

We're looking deep into the crystal ball for 2019... Within a country of the size and breadth of Australia, where hundreds of marketplaces function independently and simultaneously, it’s no surprise that real estate is a dynamic industry. The past 12 months have been no exception: Sydney and Melbourne, the largest metropolitan markets, have softened after prolonged growth; activity in...

The Top 8 Do's & Don'ts of Buying Real Estate

If you are anything like most buyers, you’ll undoubtedly have a wish list for your new home that’s pages long…but few of us have a bottomless pit of money to fund our long wish list and we’re therefore forced to make some compromises when buying. Compromise is necessary in nearly every purchase, so working out features you need and want and removing the nice to...

7 Easy Upgrades to Transform Your Kitchen

  WHEN DREAMING OF YOUR PERFECT KITCHEN, IT CAN BE HARD TO DECIDE WHAT CHANGES NEED TO HAPPEN IN ORDER TO MAKE IT THE PERFECT SPACE FOR YOU. THE KITCHEN IS THE MOST VISITED SPACE IN THE HOUSE, SO YOU WANT TO MAKE SURE YOU ARE PREPARED BEFORE EMBARKING ON THIS REMODELING JOURNEY. THERE ARE MANY CHANGES YOU CAN MAKE WHEN THE TIME COMES SO WE CREATED A LIST TO HELP YOU GET...

How To Find The Right Neighbourhood For You

It's not easy to choose the perfect neighbourhood for you or your family. Let's face it, your neighbourhood is just as important as your house. If you are not happy with your neighbourhood it will eventually lead to you not being satisfied with your home. Do your research to determine what a neighbourhood has to offer you. The greatest areas for families with children is not always the ...

LJ Hooker Mt Gravatt’s Christmas Appeal Concludes

The LJ Hooker Mt Gravatt Christmas Appeal has finished up today, after numerous businesses and individuals have given generously. “We were very impressed with the amount of people that wanted to show their support for the local families doing it tough this Christmas,” Director of LJ Hooker Mt Gravatt, Wayne Morgan said. The gift cards accumulated will be distributed to families ...

10 Unique Christmas Decorating Ideas

Bring joy to your home and to your wallet by taking a different approach to the way you adorn your home this festive season. Who would have thought burnt out light globes or toilet roll tubes could be transformed into dazzling ornaments? Instead of buying the same old Christmas decor that you find in every shop why not try making your own using elements that you already have lying arou...

6 new year’s resolutions for property investors

As the year draws to a close it is a good time to re-think and refine your role as a landlord and set your resolutions for 2019. Are you getting the right rent?   Here are 6 new year’s resolutions that should be on all landlords ‘to do’ lists in 2019. Resolution 1 – I will visit my investment When did you last visit your investment property to check its c...

LJ Hooker Wins

LJ Hooker customers are the most satisfied in Australia, with the real estate group winning the respected, independent Canstar Blue award for Most Satisfied Customers.  Canstar surveyed almost 1,000 customers who had recently used the services of a real estate agent, with LJ Hooker being awarded five-star ratings in four disciplines which are pivotal to the customer experience: Commun...

Preparing your house for an open home...

Are you going to market soon?  Need to make sure your home is ready?   When selling, first impressions count. Spending a little bit of time and energy to ensure your property is presented in the best possible light can go a long way in attracting more potential buyers, achieving a higher sales price and selling in a quicker time frame.But where should you focus your attenti...

FAKE NEWS: Property Value Apps Give Incorrect Prices

Why Home Value Estimate Tools Aren’t as Accurate as You Think! With the market in its current state of unpredictability, buyers, sellers and unfortunately agents, are relying more an more on these 'property value' apps to determine prices. "I am having many conversations with buyers at open homes telling me that they know what the home is really worth" Wayne Morgan says. "They believe...

Pre-Sale Inspections

You no doubt know how important a pest and building inspection is for someone who is buying a property, but are you aware of how important they are for sellers too?   Building and pest inspections can reveal all manner of issues from mould and water damage, to problems with the roof or foundations, skylight, rodents, leaky pipes, termites, faulty electrics and more.   Whilst many ...

Preparing your home to maximise photo potential

Preparing your home to maximise photo potential Great photos are a vital element of a successful sales campaign. Most people's first impression of your property will not be up close and personal, it’ll be through the photographs presented in the online listing.The camera’s eye is different from the human eye and it tends to magnify any issues or anything that doesn’t ...

Ready to sell in the new year?

  Preparing your property for a Summer sale   Generally speaking, summer sales are all about showcasing the exterior of your property and making the most of your garden and outdoor areas, even your balcony. Before you start making any repairs/changes it is a good idea to ask your agent what they think you should focus on.  They are highly experienced in sel...

Demand vs Supply

Demand vs Supply Market offers choice after years of undersupply   The current market situation provides prospective buyers with something they haven’t experienced in a little while - CHOICE. This has arisen due to a reversal in the supply/demand equation that drove strong price gains over recent years. The number of properties for sale has increased, considerably, from th...

Essential elements of a great sales campaign

Essential elements of a great sales campaign   Selling? With 90 years experience selling homes, we’ve found there are four key elements that underpin all great real estate sales campaigns: Choosing the right method of sale, Having a comprehensive marketing plan, Styling the property sell and Getting the right pricing strategy. Let’s have a look at these in m...

What is a property appraisal?

What is a property appraisal? Understanding how your property's value is determined is critical. Below we explain what an appraisal is and why it is important for you to obtain one, regardless of if you're selling.  How to use competitive properties to work out a value Spend time inspecting similar properties that are currently on the market, however, do be aware that their askin...

6 ways to review your property investments

6 ways to review your property investments How long has it been since you have reviewed your investment property to make sure you are getting the most out of it? Here are 6 ways to help you review whether you are maximising your property investment. What is the market rate for rents in your area?Making sure you are getting the right amount of rental income for your investment can be a...

Should you be targeting younger buyers?

9 tips to sell your home to a younger buyer If you think about it, when you put your home on the market to sell, the next owner will most likely to be younger than you are.  If you’re selling your first home and upgrading, the buyer will often be a new first home buyer trying to get onto the property ladder. If you are downsizing from the family home, the buyer will most probably ...

Are you thinking of making an offer but unsure where to start or how?

How to make an offer on a property One of the most common ways people buy a property in Australia is by Private Treaty – this is when a property is listed for sale with an asking price and potential buyers make offers in writing to the real estate agent who will then presents it to the vendor for consideration. Typically, negotiations go back and forth between the buyer...

To renovate or not to renovate when selling

To renovate or not to renovate when selling?   Do you renovate before you sell, or just put it on the market as is?  This is a big question and unfortunately, the answer is maybe… It is not a simple yes or no.  With so many variants at play, how do you calculate if you should put in the time, effort and dollars in to renovate before selling? Must-do home improvement...

Why your first property purchase is the most important

Why your first property purchase is the most important How can your first property possibly be the most important I hear you ask, but funnily enough it is. A first property is your entry into the market and the beginning of your property story.  Getting this purchase right can directly impact your accumulated wealth, living situation and disposable income down the track and therefore y...

Do you understand the key auction terms?

Do you understand the key auction terms?   You may have heard many of the terms below, but you may not know what they mean. Here is an overview of the main auction phrases: 1.    Opening bids & bidding After the auctioneer has run through the property being auctioned, detailed the features and an overview of the what is included with the property one last time, the...

Why Selling in Spring is a Good Idea for South East Brisbane Homeowners

Why Selling in Spring  is a Good Idea for South East Brisbane Homeowners   Well, it is officially nearing spring in sunny South East Brisbane! Despite the chilly winds we have been getting the last few weeks, we are entering the season where things will really start to heat up. But, the heat doesn’t just apply to the temperature. Buyers and sellers begin coming out of the w...

Your Complete Moving Guide

Selling season is coming so here is your complete guide to help you get moving!   Moving into your new home is an exciting experience. It’s a fresh start in a brand new property that you can customise and call your own. During your move, you’ll need to organise an array of tasks, such as hiring removalists, setting up utilities, packing and unpacking. To ensure you...

Practical advice to successfully sell your home

Practical advice to successfully sell your home 1. Make Sure It's Ready for Warm Living The spring selling season is traditionally where activity bursts at the seams in the housing market, but the shortfall in winter stock makes it a prime opportunity for you.   Getting ahead of the spring selling season, when property floods the market can be a good move as there are often still load...

What is a condition report?

A condition report is a document given to your tenants at the beginning of their tenancy that records the general state of repair and condition of your property on a room by room basis, including fittings and fixtures. The report is used as a reference point when tenants move out of your property to determine if there was any damage caused the property while they were living there.  At ...

Book keeping tips for property investors

Book keeping tips for property investors   Many investors are savvy buyers and ensure they surround themselves with an expert team, however often their bookkeeping skills aren’t the best and they end up missing out on hundreds of dollars’ worth of claimable expenses. Here are some valuable tips we have learnt over the years that will help ensure you are managing your inves...

The real costs of investing in real estate?

The real costs of investing in real estate?   As with owning any property, there are costs associated with investment properties.  Making sure you understand these is important as they will have a direct effect on your budget and your overall net profit.  While some of these expenses can be claimed not all of them can, so discuss each of them with your accountant or financial...

Should your first property be an investment property?

Should your first property be an investment property?   Should your first home be an investment property?  This is a question many first home buyers are being forced to consider given the skyrocketing property prices across much of Australia. But it’s not all bad news… a recent Reserve Bank of Australia discussion paper revealed that if a first home buyer bou...

10 Property investment mistakes to avoid

10 Property investment mistakes to avoid   Buying an investment property is an aspiration of many.  When it is done well it can set you up for a comfortable retirement, help fund school fees, holidays and much more.  However, as with every investment, there is always risk involved and if you get it wrong you could lose substantial amounts of money. One way to learn what to d...

What should be included in the rental application

What should be included in the rental application If you have found a property you would like to rent, the next step is to complete an application form.  The application form is your way of showing the landlord and agent that you are the best candidate for the property, that you are able to pay the rent and that you will look after the property as specified in the tenancy ag...

Selling? How to prepare your home for photos...

Selling your home can take a lot of effort. Between the spring clean, sprucing up the outdoors and clearing out all of your clutter. However, it's important to remember that most people's first impression of your home will not be up close and personal, it will be through the photographs you present in listings. To really put your home a cut above the competition, it's vital to capture your h...

Costs of selling real estate

Wayne Morgan  If you’re a seller who’s looking for new and innovative ways to stand out in an incredibly competitive real estate market, you’re in the right place....   5 minutes read     What are the costs of selling real estate? I'm thinking of selling                       &n...

Federal Budget 2018/2019 - A budget for everyone

Federal Budget 2018/2019 - A budget for everyone   The last Budget before the next Federal Election has seen the government come out with plenty of sweeteners for households, baby boomers, low and middle-income earners and businesses right across the country. Personal tax cuts, major infrastructure spending announcements, and support for aged care are the backbone of this year’s ...

Downsizing contribution into superannuation FAQ's

Downsizing contribution into superannuation FAQ's As of July 1, 2018, home owners aged 65 or over will be able to make an additional non-concessional contribution of up to $300,000 from the proceeds of selling their principal residence, if owned for 10 years or more. Both members of a couple will be able to take advantage of this measure for the same home; meaning $600,000 per couple can be...

What do fixer upper and first home buyers want?

What do renovators and first home buyers want? I'm thinking of selling                      I'm looking to buy Many people would argue that home buyers have a similar wish list when it comes to buying a home, regardless of whether they are single, a professional couple, a young family or a retiree. And w...

Selling Real Estate in Queensland

Wayne Morgan  If you’re a seller who’s looking for new and innovative ways to stand out in an incredibly competitive real estate market, you’re in the right place....   9 minutes read     A complete guide to selling property in Queensland Here is everything you need to know when it comes to the selling process for Queensland real estate. From the...

Managing Your Investment Property

Managing Your Investment Property Here is our step by step guide for managing your investment property in QLD. This guide covers the different ways you can set up your investment, working out how to finance it, the specific QLD property taxes, where to search for a property and guidance around using a property manager and questions to ask. Here is our step by step guide for managing your in...

8 Neighbourhood features that boost your property’s value

8 Neighbourhood features that boost your property’s value   Neighbourhoods have a big impact on the potential and long-term value of a property. We've outlined are 8 qualities to look for when you are buying as they can have a positive effect on the long-term value of your home.  You’ve all heard the adage location, location, location…  Well here is...

10 Signs now is the time to sell

10 Signs now is the time to sell   When is the right time to sell? This is a question we are asked every day. It isn’t a one size fits all answer as everyone’s situation is different.  However, here are 10 indicators to help you assess whether now is the right time for you to sell up and move onto greener pastures. 1. Low cash rate The current cas...

What to do this Australia Day weekend ?

1. Australia Day at South Bank Celebrate the great outdoors this Australia Day at South Bank. Bring the family, pack a picnic, pull up some grass and enjoy free live music at River Quay from 11am to 7.30pm. Then, be dazzled by an impressive fireworks display from the banks of the Brisbane River from 7:30pm. 2. Australia Day Raceday Get trackside and experience the exhilaration and excite...

Renting Basics

What is a rental bond? A rental bond is money paid by the tenant to the landlord or agent at the start of a tenancy agreement. It is a form of security that is held at the local bond authority for the duration of the rental agreement. It is paid in addition to rent or rent in advance. For residential properties, you can be asked to pay between four and six weeks bond depending on what...

Open Market Report

Welcome to the latest LJ Hooker Open Market Report As market dynamics change, it’s important that you stay up to date with how key market fundamentals are performing. This report provides you with the latest data and commentary to do just that, ensuring that you are able to make sound real estate decisions.   Key points in this issue; WHERE HAVE ALL THE HOUSES FOR SALE G...

True Blue Aussies - and our heroes!

  The first honour goes to Kirsty Boden. The twenty-eight year old lost her life running to help victims of the stabbing and van attack. She was fatally injured trying to save someone else's. Married to a nurse I know how taxing their daily job can be and today our thoughts and wishes go out to her family and friends. Secondly, to Brett Forte. Senior Constable Forte lost his life i...

Property Investing Basics

Chan and Naylor share their insights on the all-important topic 'Property Investor Taxes'. Understanding Property Investing Taxes is Critical Are you thinking about entering the property market as an investor? If so, it's a good idea to get clued up to the various taxes you will inevitably face. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, every month sees around $12.5 b...

22 Most Creative Living Room Designs in White

The April Home Checklist

Getting Cold Weather Ready With April around the corner - we will find the morning air is becoming crisper, leaves are falling and the local farmer's markets are full of potatoes, plums, and pears. Your thoughts maybe turning to curling up on the sofa with a movie and popcorn, but before you get too settled, here are some home to-do's for this month to help you prepare for the colder months ...

8 Signs You're Ready To Sell Your Home

Ready or Not? There is a lot of talk about real estate - it is one of the most popular topics of conversation right across Australia.  Perhaps you've contemplated selling recently with the talk around high property prices but haven't been able to decide if the time is right.  We've helped a lot of people sell their homes as you can imagine and over the years have found these are so...

The ‘Bank of Mum & Dad’: 5 tips for First Home Buyers

Below are five tips to consider:  1.    Lend the money If parents are fortunate enough to have some spare cash, they can lend the deposit to their children on a commercial basis.  Alternatively, they may have equity locked up in their home, so by establishing a line of credit facility they can on-lend the deposit to their children for their first property. In either scenario,...

The Property Buying Game Infographic

A fun way to learn about the buying process What are the Basics of Buying? The road to home ownership can be a lengthy one if you're not prepared - but luckily, we're here to help! By breaking down the home search, the financial preparations and the purchase itself step by step, the process can be made much easier. It also helps when you've got a handy and very fun guide - much like our boa...

The importance of a property manager

Experience on your side:   Your property manager(s) may see hundreds of rental applications and are experienced at screening tenants, reference checking and reviewing rental history to ensure you receive high-quality tenants.  You, of course, have the final say as to who rents your property. Avoid unpleasant confrontations:   We are a buffer between you and the tenant. Your pr...

Property Investing Basics - Understanding Negative Gearing

Have You Considered Negative Gearing? Have you been considering entering the real estate market? Chances are that you've probably heard the terms 'negative gearing' and 'positive gearing' floating around, Given that very few of us can afford a rental home out of our own pocket, borrowing funds to make the purchase is an inevitability for most. In fact, according to the Australian Bureau of ...

Where have all the listings gone?

In 2016, the total number of properties listed for sale across the country was 8.9% lower than seen in 2015. This reduced the availability and choice for those looking to purchase a property. As such the number of sales transactions in 2016 was 9.2% lower than in 2015. Low listing volumes at a time when interest rates have driven buyer demand higher have fuelled price growth. 2017 Listing and...

Savvy storage solutions for the home

It is said that cleanliness is next to godliness but keeping your home neat and tidy can become unmanageable without adequate storage solutions. With the excitement of choosing colours and finishes for your interiors, it’s easy to forget about storage and organisation. However, clearing areas of clutter is not only aesthetically pleasing, it can also help reduce stress and increase effi...

Selling Style Checklist

      ails.

First home super saver scheme what it is and how it works...

As we all know housing prices are a major barrier for first home buyers and it’s hard to save a deposit in a property market that is constantly increasing in value. From 1 July 2017, the Federal Government have introduced the consultation draft legislation to implement the First Home Super Saver Scheme that will allow first home buyers to tap into some of their superannuation early to ...

4 Tricks of the Selling Real Estate Trade to Help you Sell for More

Helping you make the most from your property... Building the Value Are you aware of the best ways to make a profit from selling your home? The potential that real estate holds as a money-making venture can be seen in the total worth of dwellings in Australia, which according to CoreLogic RP Data has now breached $6 trillion. To put that in perspective, if you managed to save $50,000 ever...

Adding Value To Your Home With A Granny Flat

Boost your property's value... A Speedy Addition to Your Home If you have excess space sitting on your property for sale, or perhaps bought a new piece of land and are not sure how to make the most of it, there are some great options available to you. You could landscape this yard space, or perhaps construct something for the kids. But when you really want to add value to your home, there i...

May Home Checklist

1. Getting Ready for the Cold It's starting to cool down in a lot of places around the country, and people will be eyeing up their bar heater, fireplace or heat pump for warmth in the winter months. Of course, there will be those who have the good fortune to live on the seemingly forever-warm coastal paradises that Australia has to offer, but we don't all get to live that lifestyle. No, for...

Things to Consider When Choosing a Neighbourhood

A checklist to work out what's important - to you Do You Know What to Consider? Depending on your familial and financial situation, as well as your local property market, there will be a number of different things you look for when you're buying a property. These factors can drive a price up or down, and perhaps even give you an edge at the negotiating table. Let's take a look at what you s...

How to attract good tenants

Spending time and money creating a property that attracts the right tenants is one of the best investments a landlord can make.  It is obvious that if your property is attractive to tenants it will make your life easier, the quality of tenants you attract will be better, it will alleviate stress, financial and time pressures and most importantly make your investment work harder for you. ...

Open House Inspection Checklist - 10 Things You Need to Check Before Buying A Home

  Where to Research to Find the Best Property For You There are many ways to find out what the property market is doing - here's some advice on where to look to find it. Where to Start Your Research There are many ways to find out what the property market is doing as well as the impact of what current market conditions may have on your purchase. So before hitting the Saturday ope...

Federal Budget 2017 / 2018 review and impact on real estate

Summary of Changes A budget deficit of $29.4b expected in 2017/18, returning to a surplus of $7.4b in 2020/21. First-home buyers to salary sacrifice up to $30,000 into their superannuation to help save for a home deposit. Downsizers will be able to put $300,000 each into their superannuation, from the proceeds of their principal residence. The new measure, including a bond aggregator, t...

The Opportunity!

    Looking for an entry level home in a great suburb? You just found it... We are proud to present this 3 bedroom home located at; 20 Breslin Street, Carina 3 Bed | 1 Bath | 1 Car | 582 sqm SOLD $600,000.00   This home presents an unmissable opportunity for young families, first or second time home buyers and investors alike. Start or add to a current port...

Stamp duty a hindrance to market sales

The survey of 2,700 home owners showed 44% of respondents who wanted to sell in 2016 but decided against it, cited transactional imposts such as the stamp duty they would pay on their next property as the reason for staying put.home owners showed 44% of respondents who wanted to sell in 2016 but decided against it, cited transactional imposts such as the stamp duty they would pay on their...

21 Kitchen Designs You Have To See!

From exposed brick & earthy tones to sleek & minimalistic design, no matter the size of your available space there is a layout and colour pallet to make any kitchen look like it belongs in a magazine spread. Take a look at our pick and let us know if you agree.  Search For Properties | Love Brisbane Property  Search for Love Brisbane Prope...

Should Your First Home be an Investment Property?

The Queensland First Home Owners' Grant has been boosted to $20,000, but only until 30 June 2017. The Queensland First Home Owners' Grant is a state government initiative to help first home owners to get their new first home sooner. Depending on the date of your contract, you’ll get $15,000 or $20,000 towards buying or building your new house, unit or townhouse (valued at less than $75...

Why now might be the best time to buy a unit...

Dear Wayne,  With over 300 developers and master agents with Australian projects entrusting Investorist with their ‘channel sales’ globally, I am privileged to have insight into what’s happening right now in the Australian residential property markets. I wanted to share with you some of these insights for the year so far. Oversupply The Australian apartment...

Am I getting the right rent?

An LJ Hooker property manager is best placed to advise you on what sort of rent comparative properties in your area are earning. They can also advise you of your suburb’s vacancy rate: if there is a lot of vacant properties, increasing your rent may turn off existing or prospective tenants who could find a similar property at a cheaper asking rate.  But a lot of the time, e...

Getting Property Investment Fit

Here’s what you need to do to become property fit and become a successful property investor.  By David Naylor, co-founder and Managing Director of Chan & Naylor Property Accounting and Wealth Advisory Group Mindset  Property is expensive: you generally must have the deposit to put towards the purchase price being 20%. Therefore, you will need to borrow mo...

Tips on how to research the real estate market

Reliable market data sources There are many resources you can tap into to access market data for different regions across Australia.  Sources such as CoreLogic RP Data, APM Price Finder, ljhooker.com.au or Residex will help you understand different property markets across each state and territory.  Additionally, most government websites provide community profiles that share infor...

Winter Warming Ideas for the Home

When the weather starts to cool down, we appreciate the comforts of home more than ever. When it feels like a gale is blowing in straight from Antarctica, there’s something extra-special about being inside, in nice, cozy, warm surrounds. Creating a home you’ll love returning to at the end of each day is easy, with a few alterations to your routine to compensate for the cooler weat...

Savvy Gen Y find ways to climb property ladder

Rising youth unemployment numbers, the mounting cost of property in Australia and low level of wage growth has fuelled speculation that First Home Buyers are being priced out of the property market, however new research by LJ Hooker shows Generation Y are finding innovative ways to get their foot on the property ladder. According  to LJ Hooker's Head of Real Estate, Christopher Mo...

The best ways to market your property to sell

Effectively marketing your property is a critical part of achieving a successful sale.  A well-rounded marketing plan with a mix of different advertising channels such as the internet, social media, signboards, local marketing and newspaper advertising all play an important role in spreading the word about your property and creating healthy competition among buyers. Each different adv...

First home buyer case study

A first home buyer's journey In our new home buying series, we would like you to meet Michelle and join us on a journey with her as she embarks on one of the greatest journeys in life - buying a first home.  What are your enduring childhood memories? We all have formative experiences that lodge themselves in our memory bank, rising to the fore months, years, and even decades later....

Supply vs demand - how the cycle turns

As anyone who has taken a long-term view of property can attest, property markets continuously move in a cycle and in Australia where each property market sits in the cycle depends on the strength of their respective local economy. A perfect example of this is when you observe conditions across the opposing sides of our continent: while Sydney’s property prices have been propelled by un...

Warning | Don't get caught out by the new property Tax rules!

From 1 July 2017, new tax rules will apply to any property transaction where the market value of the property is $750,000 and above.  Although the new laws are aimed at foreign residents, everyone must be aware that these new laws also impact Australian residents selling properties above this value.  Summary  The new laws require a purchaser to withhold 12.5 percent of the p...

The steps to buying real estate

Here is a look at the steps involved in buying, the different ways to buy, where to search for a property and understanding contracts and the settlement process.   Different Ways to buy a Property in Australia There are 4 primary ways you can buy real estate in Australia and depending on where you are looking to buy often determines the method.  Private Treaty A standard resid...

Stop believing the rubbish being written about prices slowing.

            1. 24 Watford Street Upper Mount Gravatt, QLD, 4122 $1,300,000   2. 5 Culzean Street Mansfield, QLD, 4122 $1,102,500 3. 41 Eyre Street Mount Gravatt East, QLD, 4122 $1,060,000     4...

For Sale

The Little Cutie! 19 Wishart Road, Upper Mount Gravatt   The Spring Renovator! 10 Crewe Street, Mount Gravatt East   Perfect Post-War! 23 Foxglove Street, Mt Gravatt East      The Tranquil Retreat! 22 Barcelona Street, Wishart     Quintessential Family Home! 29 Novello Street,...

Last chance to beat the rush...

  Sellers who want to stand out shouldn’t wait until September 1 to hang out the ‘For Sale’ sign. Indeed, beating other vendors to the marketplace can potentially deliver a premium result for sellers as their property competes with less stock and enjoys a higher profile. It’s a simple case of supply and demand. Across Australia, there is a shortage of prope...

What rooms add value to your home?

How much could fixing up one room add to your home's value? We've had a look at some very specific renovations that can add value to your property when the time comes to sell, which can cut down on energy bills and improve the practicality of a home. But what about doing over an entire room? Obviously fixing up a kitchen is a completely different beast from making over the master bedroom, wi...

Funky urban apartment in remarkable location!

Looking for somewhere that offers you everything at your fingertips? This is it...  From public transport to shops, cafes, and restaurants, this location is a 10/10 for convenience! 4/94 Cavendish Road, Coorparoo 2 Bed | 1 Bath | 1 Car | 665 sqm SOLD $360,000.00        Quietly tucked away at the back of this small 6 unit building, is a priva...

Benefits of selling your property via auction

David Holmes, Auction Manager at LJ Hooker Auction Services shares his expert insights into the key benefits of selling via auction here: An auction is a public sale, usually conducted by an auctioneer or a qualified real estate agent and is governed by strict rules.  It is advertised or a specific place, time and date and prospective buyers bid for the property with the property bein...

Why Sellers & Buyers LOVE our Property Marketing

1. First, we use a mix of professional photography, video, and writing to make an individualised blog on the house. Here is what we did for Jacky, the seller of 51 Morialta Street:  For the Biggest Family... Offering a unique opportunity to secure without a doubt one of the area's most desirab...     2. Second, we will make your property video the ST...

Local agency decorates office with... bras!

Well, that’s exactly what you’ll see if you venture past the LJ Hooker Cessnock|Kurri Kurri office on Vincent Street. It’s all part of the offices’ fundraising and awareness efforts in October for the Cancer Councils Pink Ribbon Foundation; an organisation that aims to raise awareness about breast and gynecological cancers, as well as raise funds for prevention progra...

How to prepare your property for a summer sale

Here are some essential steps to take now to be sale ready this summer. Make all necessary repairs. If you want to sell your home this summer the first step is to fix all the necessary and obvious repairs.  Buyers will look through your home with a fine tooth comb and you don’t want them to be put off by a creaky gate, dirty windows, and leaking gutters.  So walk around t...

What to cook this Christmas

Get Platter Ready If you are the one preparing the feast this year than you are going to be spending a lot of the day running in and out of the kitchen. So, the night before prepare some ready to go food platters to keep guests snacking before and in between meals. Try some of these great ideas below;  Seafood platter     Antipasto platter  ...

Who will be our Million Dollar Intern?

LJ Hooker is giving one lucky Australian that chance through its current Million Dollar Intern campaign.   This year, LJ Hooker is offering aspiring real estate sales agents the chance to be mentored by Sydney’s leading harbour-side property specialist, LJ Hooker Double Bay’s Bill Malouf. Over a 30-year career, Mr. Malouf has been the sought-after agent for vendors in Austr...

10 tips for a stress free Christmas

1. Get Rid of the Gift Guilt Once again, December has arrived without warning and Christmas feels like it may as well be tomorrow. And if you’re anything like the rest of us, you’ll be starting to worry about having everything prepared for Christmas - gifts, food, bedding for guests and the rest! But there’s one thing you should always remember: Christmas is a holiday, f...

What is an auction and how to choose the best agent

However, behind all the fast-paced entertainment lies a very serious process. So what is an auction and how can you choose the best agent to partner with to sell your property? What is an auction? An auction is a public sale, usually conducted by a licensed auctioneer and is governed by strict rules that vary from each state and territory.   It’s advertised for a specific place,...

We're giving away $1,000 A DAY!

There's no better time to get a market update from LJ Hooker. You'll get a great idea of your property's potential, and we're giving away $1,000 cash every day this Spring. Plus, when you list your property exclusively through us, you could win your sales commission* back.  Now that's LJ Hooker value for you. WIN - WIN The prizes on offer... Each day one person will be selected...

9 tips to style your apartment to sell

Not all of us live in a large family sized house – and many of us don’t want to, but when it comes to selling the same principles apply.  Buyers want rooms to feel spacious and light, they want the apartment to be functional and have usable living spaces.  Buyers love outdoor areas and of course privacy and they want to feel the apartment has been well maintained and l...

Do granny flats add value to your home or investment?

When you wish to make renovations or additions to a home, one of the biggest impediments can be red tape. Applying for permits and getting permissions from councils can be time-consuming and costly. However, with a granny flat, the process can be incredibly simple. For example, the NSW Planning Department notes that councils and local government can now approve a granny flat within 20 days o...

How not to over capitalise on your home renovation

Over capitalisation – what is it? The term over capitalisation means to improve a property beyond its resale value, in other words, it means that you spend too much money on the renovations of your property and are not able to recoup this money if you decide to sell it.  An example would be if a homeowner spent $200,000 on home renovations and then decided to sell the prop...

Buying Real Estate in Queensland

The Sunshine State is an attractive prospect for anyone looking to purchase real estate. With a laid-back lifestyle only a hop, skip and jump from the city, bustling CBD areas and expansive country and outback, it blends everything great about Australia into one wondrous tableau. But how do you go about buying property in Queensland? There are specific steps to take, just as there are ever...

What are the costs of buying a home?

Here are 9 of the main costs you should be aware of before you buy: 1. The Deposit Deposits are usually at least 5-10 percent of the home’s overall cost, depending on the type of loan you obtain. To determine how much your deposit will be, consider: The average home price of the area in which you wish to buy The type of loan you wish to get The amount you wish to borrow ...

Adding value to your home on every budget from $100 - $20,000

If you have $100 to spend If you have $100 to spend, head to your local flower market and buy a big bunch of one type of flower and drop them in a large vase. This will give you up to a week of colour and interest in your lounge room. Another impactful way to improve your home is to buy a potted plant.  Orchids and succulents are easy to maintain as well as pots of herbs placed on the...

Step by step guide to selling your property

Selling a Property If you are looking at selling your property, understanding the steps involved is very important.  To help you navigate the process, here is an easy to understand infographic that will walk you through the 14 key steps to selling your home.     Property Appraisal The first step to selling residential real estate is to get an LJ Hooker real estate agent ...

Property investment summer checklist

  Security Check Summer time is when many of us travel to see family and friends which may mean your property could be vacant for a few weeks over the Christmas / New Year period and become a potential target for thieves. Find out if your property is going to be vacant and if it is check the security of your investment.   Make sure the locks are functioning well on all windows ...

Bitcoin, renovations and regional centres - 2018 property trends

  Last year's balance out... The second half of 2017 heralded a noticeable transition. Investor demand slowed - as a result of higher finance rates - listings increased in the lead up to spring and affordability constraints began to see buyers re-evaluate their situation, budgets, and housing requirements. This has seen a moderation of property price growth during the end of 2017. S...

12 benefits of using a property manager

After purchasing your investment property, the next key decision you will need to make is whether you will employ a property manager to help you, or whether you’ll manage it yourself.  Here is a look at 12 key benefits a property manager can offer you. Benefit 1 - Fewer problem tenants Experienced property managers see hundreds of rental applications and are experienced at scre...

Finding the next property investment hot spot

  There are some tell-tale signs that can indicate when a suburb or region is about to experience a property boom. After all, timing the purchase of your investment property with the market conditions will be beneficial in the long run for your returns.  The thing to remember about property is that it doesn’t exist in a vacuum. To take property investment seriously is to b...

Is it Time to Renovate Your Investment Property?

Is it Time to Renovate Your Investment Property? You may be intending to expand your property portfolio, but investing in existing assets first may increase your current rental return. Improving current assets can increase the appeal of the property and can reduce the time between letting, attract more desirable tenants or hold onto good tenants for longer. Additionally, if you've been sma...

10 mistakes first home buyers make - and how to avoid them

Whilst you’ll receive loads of advice on what to do, we wanted to share some of the pitfalls – some of the things you should avoid. 1. Don’t know your credit history Not looking at your credit history report before you approach a lender is a mistake.  This is the most important document that lenders will look at to determine how much they are willing to lend you&helli...

Does Styling your home increase your sales value?

Increase Your Sales Price by Styling As we head towards the busy selling season we wanted to find out from our top 50 agents - what they believe vendors can do to help sell their property for the highest price.  We put the following questions to a panel of our top 50 agents: What can a home owner do to ensure they get the highest price for their property? How can a home owner help a...

Property investing basics - what to look for in an investment

Making Informed Decisions Have you been like a cat at a fish bowl, looking into the Australian property markets only to find yourself unable to make that final commitment?  To help you we have spoken to some of our property management experts who lives and breathes property and asked them to share what they believe makes a good investment. Where You Buy The location is obviously the...

Downsizers feel stamp duty pain

The Downsizing Dilemma, a White Paper produced by LJ Hooker and Downsizing.com.au, found stamp duty was the biggest obstacle for older Australians downsizing from the family home. In turn, stamp duty is preventing family houses – and many unused bedrooms – from being freed up and purchased by first, second and third home buyers, which would improve affordability across the wider m...

The Deciding Game! Watch the State Of Origin on us!

With game two of the 2017 State of Origin having Queensland Maroons score two tries in the second half to take out the victory, we decided to send you and a friend to the FINAL GAME !  WIN Two Platinum hard copy tickets! Seated in a central position! How to enter  Step 1. Like our Facebook page click here 👉  www.facebook.com/ljhook...

31 Design Ideas for Small Backyards

Your First Home Buyers Guide

5 ways to keep kids busy at home these holidays!

1. Handball for rainy days Undercover, mark out a square and divide into four using chalk or duct tape. 2. Scavenger hunt Get some paper bags and write a list of items likely to be found in the backyard or close by then send the kids off to find them. 3. Backyard twister Lay out a string line to the size of the game you want then use four dif...

Styling to Sell with Darren Palmer

Part 1 - How to Make an Entrance   Part 2 - The Front Door & Beyond   Part 3 - The Kitchen   Part 4 - Living & Dining in Style Step 5 - Stylish Bedroom   Step 6 - The Outdoors    

Winter Home Checklist

Jobs to do during the colder months Kitchen comfort Winter is well and truly with us but don't use the cold weather as an excuse to spend the entire season on the couch. Here is a checklist of jobs to do when the temperatures are low. If your cooking space is a bit on the chilly side add a rug to warm up your toes and relieve pressure on your legs and back. Choose an outdoor mat made from ...