Holiday Security Checklist

Is yours one of the few houses in the street with an alarm, a dog or well-secured doors and windows or where the occupants come and go at irregular times? Then give yourself a big tick for offering the least opportunity to aspiring thieves. But if you are going on holiday this Christmas you might want to make your home even less attractive to thieves by following this holiday security checklist.

Firstly, try to think the way the thieves do. Does your home look neglected, abandoned, unused? if so, try the following ideas to make it look occupied:

• Leave a light on inside if you intend returning home after dark. The light should be visible from the street and give the impression that the house is occupied. Consider using an automatic lighting timer.
• Never leave notes on your door. Thieves can read too.
• Keep blinds and curtains partly open to give the house a “lived in” appearance if you are going away for some length of time.
• Cancel all regular deliveries, e.g. milk, newspapers so the stockpile doesn’t give the game away.
• Ask a friend or neighbour to keep an eye on your home and collect any other items which may arrive during your absence.
• Ask the Post Office to hold your mail.
• Ask a friend or neighbour to park a car in your driveway from time to time.

It is also a good idea to make things tough for aspiring burglars:

• Lock away all portable garden equipment, tools, ladders or anything that could be used to break into your house.
• Securely lock your garage; most breaking-in implements are found there.
• Lock all doors and windows
• Take your keys or leave them with a friend. Do not hide them around the property.
• Remove all money and valuables to a safe place such as your bank.
• Notify your local Police of your absence.

Have a great holiday.

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10 Minute Renter Checklist

With increasingly quick open houses, we asked a leading professional – Suzanne Brown of RentWest – to devise a must-check list for prospective homes.

It’s no secret that renters are finding home viewings extremely difficult in their quest to find their perfect, long-term home. With a lot of pressure on vacancy rates (and property managers), it’s likely you will have 30 minutes (or sometimes less) to look through a property with 25 people or more. In fact, there are even reports of up to 40 people going through the one home viewing.

Rent.com.au surveyed renters earlier in the year (Renters Unite and Have Your Say, June 14–17) and discovered renters were finding it increasingly difficult to check the suitability of a home in the short time frame. They found that they were expected to check the suitability of a house within as little as 10 minutes before committing to a lease agreement. When you consider that more and more people are renting as a lifestyle choice and wanting their rental house to be a home for a long period of time, you can understand that this scenario is a little unsettling.

While choosing a home is a very personal decision and based on many different things, Rent.com.au asked leading property manager Suzanne Brown of RentWest to compile a list of must-checks to safeguard your decision. While you know the look and feel of a house that’s right for you, these questions will ensure those practical aspects that sometimes get overlooked in the rush of an open house.

1. SECURITY

Make sure from insurance point of view that there are deadlocks and window locks. In many cases, tenants move into a property and start to sort their insurance, then find they can’t get any cover because there are no deadlocks on windows and doors. Also look for or ask about an alarm system.

2. STORAGE

Is there enough internal and external storage? Also check robe space and linen storage. While such a basic need, this is one area that you can’t compromise on. It can be costly when you need to buy in your own storage, then there’s the hassle of selling it should you move into a new home with adequate storage.

3. CLEANLINESS

Remember that you are likely to be taking the property ‘as viewed’. Don’t assume that the junk in the rear sheds will be cleaned out, the dusting sorted and the weeding and leaves taken care of for your arrival. Ask.

4. HEATING & COOLING

Is there airconditioning? This is something we can often assume is standard, however that is not the case. Ensure you ask: is there airconditioning? Is it hot and cold? And is it in working order? It’s also a good idea to remember to look in the bedrooms and upstairs areas for airconditioning.

5. BEDROOMS

Also check the number of bedrooms and the size (measure up the room by stepping it out or take a tape measure). Mistakes can be made on info sheets and sometimes a room can be called a bedroom when it’s not really practical to be one, so double check.

6. TECH BITS

Double check the position of television antennas, foxtel outlets, telephone outlets and powerpoints. This may seem a little pedantic, but it’s these basic outlets and points that can cause unnecessary irritation.

7. KITCHEN & LAUNDRY

Is there a fridge or space for one? If a fridge alcove is built in to cabinetry, measure it up to ensure it fits your fridge. Same goes for the laundry: check if there is a washing machine and drier or if there is adequate space for yours.

8. ROLLER DOORS

Is it automatic or manual? This is actually a big issue. Ensure you ask the property manager to physically check how it operates, so there are no surprises when you move in.

9. LAWNS & GARDENS

Walk outside and look at the maintenance that will be required. Ask whether it is to be maintained by the tenant or whether there are any contributions or inclusions. Lawnmoving and gardening is usually specified in an advertisement, but it’s also wise to double check.

10. GAS vs ELECTRIC

This is a personal preference, but one that many people feel strongly about. So, if you are someone who loves to cook, ensure you check this one out.

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Cheaper to buy than rent in more suburbs

• Queensland highest with 147 suburbs cheaper to buy
• Adelaide has the most close to the city
• Victoria has just 17 suburbs/towns

SOFTER property prices are proving a boon to renters wanting to own their own homes with it now cheaper to buy than lease in a record 388 suburbs across the country.

The RP Data Buy vs Rent report analyses the different between monthly mortgage payments and monthly rental payments based on the median value of houses and units.

The data shows that there has been a 63 per cent increase in the number of suburbs where it is now cheaper to pay a mortgage than pay a landlord - only 238 suburbs fit the criteria back in August.

The analysis provides further evidence of just how soft property prices have become - the RP Data Hedonic Index for October released on Friday showed that nationally, property prices sank -1.4 per cent in October after four months of growth.

But for renters wanting to take the plunge, it is great news. For those prepared to pay an extra $50 a month more than their current rents and take a variable home loan, the number of suburbs on offer jumps even further to 1419 suburbs. 

Unsurprisingly, across the capital cities, it is typically apartment style housing where it is more affordable to purchase than commit to the dead money or a rental due to lower property prices.

Queensland offers the majority of suburbs and towns with 147 locations where it is cheaper to buy than rent, although most are located in regional areas including Mackay, the Darling Downs, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Brisbane accounts for 42 suburbs, most of which are located in Logan and Ipswich.

New South Wales has the second highest number of options with 88 suburbs across the state where a mortgage is cheaper than renting. Units in Enmore and Rushcutters Bay are among the surprises. Those wanting to buy a unit in Enmore with an interest only loan based on 5.9 per cent, would pay $691 less a month than the current median rent, according to the estimates by RP Data.

The national research director of RP Data, Tim Lawless said the combination of soft property prices and discounted mortgage rates had combined with high rents and low rental vacancies to cause many renters to make the switch.

"In some suburbs buying may actually be cheaper than renting, especially where we are seeing evidence of tight rental markets resulting in rental increases," Mr Lawless said.

"For many renters, now may be a good time to either re-enter the market or buy their first home."

Victoria supported just 17 suburbs where it is now cheaper to buy than rent, although only three of these were close to the Melbourne CBD. The rest were in country towns including Mildura, Bendigo and around the Wimmera.

In South Australia and Western Australia, there were 48 and 44 suburbs and towns respectively, while in Tasmania and the Northern Territory there were 30 and 11. South Australia boasted a 31 suburbs out of the 48 that were located within Adelaide.

The analysis did not consider the potential for capital gains or other costs of ownership, such as stamp duty or strata title fees for units, but Mr Lawless said it offered a good starting point for renters wanting to take the leap.

The Buy vs Rent report can be downloaded free at www.myrp.com.au/buyorrent

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/realestate/buying/cheaper-to-buy-than-rent-in-more-suburbs/story-fndban6l-1226510420832#ixzz2BJib1IeZ

A few tips from REIQ on how to price your home correctly!

Everyone knows how much their home is worth. Don’t they?

  

It’s the conversation that can strike fear into the heart of even the most experienced real estate agent. A person’s home is often their absolute pride and joy. Often it has been home to wonderful family memories or the blood, sweat and tears that were poured into those stunning renovations. Then you throw the ever-discerning buyer into the mix. They have hunted the open-home trail for months, researched their preferred suburbs and compared homes upon homes. Ultimately, it is these people who will determine what your home is really worth.

 

So when it comes time for an agent to have the price-setting conversation with a seller, the reality of the market conditions can come as, well, a rude shock. It is often the case that the seller is sporting a lovely pair of rose-coloured glasses. What is a castle in their eyes could be – for lack of a better term – a shack in the eyes of the buyer.

 

When deciding how to price your property, there is often a disparity between what the seller expects and what the market is offering.

 

Here are a few key tips to help you through the price-setting process;

• Setting a realistic price will ensure you obtain your asking price and also conclude the sale promptly;
• Sellers who set a too high price on their homes can seriously damage their prospects for a quick sale;
• Facts and figures show that an overpriced property discourages serious buyers. When it remains on the market too long it redirects interest to more realistically-priced properties;
• Emotional attachment and pricey renovations often drive sellers to push the price up – and understandably so. However, unfortunately the state of the property market won’t always reflect personal circumstances; and
• Do your homework! Be sure to research the property market in your area and seek the opinion of a professional from a REIQ accredited agency;

A good start is an appraisal – an inspection to estimate the sale price of a property. An agent will appraise your property at no charge if you request them to do so.

 

This is not a ‘pluck a figure from the air’ kind of appraisal. Under the Property Agents and Motor Dealers Act, if you request the agent to provide a market appraisal on your home, the agent will provide a comparative market analysis (CMA) or written statement for your property.

 

The criterion for a CMA is comparing three properties of similar standard and style sold within a five-kilometre radius in the last six months. If an agent is not able to provide a CMA due to lack of comparable sales within your area, they must supply you with a written statement outlining how they arrived at the suggested market price of your home.

 

From the CMA or written statement, and taking into account the current property market, sellers will have formed a foundation from which to set a realistic selling price for the home.

 

In any market conditions, establishing a realistic price when selling your home is important, however, it is even more important when there are more sellers than buyers in the marketplace. After all, being an educated seller – sans rose-coloured glasses – can make the selling process much more efficient for all involved.

Queensland set to follow NSW by scrapping $7,000 first home owners grant in favour of $15,000 handout for new home buyers

The Queensland government will tomorrow announce plans to scrap the $7,000 first-home owners grant and replace it with a $15,000 handout only available for those first-home owners buying a new home.

The details of the changes to first-home owner handouts, leaked to the Courier Mail, will be announced by Queensland treasurer Tim Nicholls tomorrow when he delivers the 2012-13 state budget at 2.30pm.

It is less than the $17,000 available to first-home owners buying or building a new home under the previous Bligh government, who were eligible for the $7,000 first home owners grant and the $10,000 Building Boost.

The Building Boost ended on April 30 (applications can be lodged up until August 30) and was available to all classes of buyers.

The Queensland changes mirror a similar move by the NSW state government in its June budget, which will see the end of the $7,000 first-home owners’ grant on October 1 replaced by a $15,000 handout for those buying a new home, including homes bought off-the-plan.

The changes to Queensland first-home owner grants follows the decision by Queensland premier Campbell Newman to reinstate the transfer duty home concession scheme from July 1.

It provides a concessional stamp duty rate of 1% up to a value of $350,000, with stamp duty charged at normal rates for the remaining value of the home purchase.

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) expressed disappointment at the decision and warned that thousands of Queensland first-time property buyers may delay purchasing their first home following the scrapping of the long-standing handout.

“REIQ analysis of Office of State Revenue (OSR) figures show only 24% of first home buyers opted to buy a new home when the First Home Owners Boost, which featured up to $21,000 for new-builds, was in play during the GFC,” says REIQ CEO Anton Kardash.

The REIQ expects the decision to remove the $7,000 grant in favour of a $15,000 grant for new homes will impact the majority of prospective first home buyers.

‘‘The main reason for this is that new homes are usually too expensive for first-time buyers and are often located in outlying suburbs where young people do not necessarily want to live.

“New units and townhouses can also be more expensive than established and often have higher body corporate fees than older apartments.”

Kardash says the removal of the grant failed to take into consideration the complexity of the real estate market and comes as OSR figures show that over the June quarter more than 5,400 First Home Owner Grants were paid in Queensland compared to 4,000 over the same period in 2011.

‘‘The first home buyer segment of the market has been one of the few positives over recent times, so we are likely to see their level of activity decrease significantly once the grant is removed next month,’’ says Kardash.

Not surprisingly, the announcement was welcomed by residential developer Stockland, which described it as a “massive shot in the arm for the state economy” and one which would “underpin the future of the state’s housing industry” and provide thousands of jobs.

“We fully support the Newman Government’s critical boost to the Queensland housing market – it is good news for the entire state because it will increase confidence, generate thousands of construction jobs, and bring home ownership within reach of more young Australians,” said Stockland Queensland general manager, Kingsley Andrew.

“An extra $15,000 is a significant saving for first home buyers and coupled with no stamp duty, today’s announcement creates an unprecedented incentive from the Queensland Government”.

PROPERTY TO PAY SOON...

THE property wars are heating up and commentators are taking to Twitter to assert their views. The contention is around the different measures of house prices and whether or not the housing market has bottomed but the good news is that now may be the perfect time for the property investor.
CommSec economist Craig James is of the view that the worst may be over and we might start to see some slow growth in property markets.

Data out on Wednesday from the Australian Bureau of Statistics was broadly in line with RP Data numbers out earlier in the week. The weighted average of prices in the eight capital cities rose 0.5 per cent over the quarter but remained down by 2.1 per cent over the year.



Better numbers from RP Data
James says that in terms of comprehensiveness and scope of data, as an economist he believes RP Data is superior to the ABS.
“RP Data and Rismark have got data on almost every single property transaction in Australia,” he says.

“And if somebody is going to know what’s happening in terms of property prices its going to be them.”

The ABS, James says, covers houses, rather than the total market.


Affordability
Prices may now be more affordable than they have been in a decade. The median average dwelling price for the aggregate of the eight capital cities was $460,000, RP Data states, and the range was from $300,000, in Perth, right up to $535,000 in Sydney.

“Property prices have bottomed. You’ve had two interest rate cuts, you’ve now got the best housing affordability in a decade,” he says.

If you’re looking to buy an investment property, now may be as good a time as any, as yields are improving in some areas.

“I think we are going to see growth in house prices. The RP Data figures show its still quite attractive, the property returns are still pretty good.”

Click here to view source

THE REASONS FOR THE DE-AMALGAMATION OF REDCLIFFE FROM THE MORETON BAY REGION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

REDCLIFFE was a viable Local Authority with a sufficient population base of 53,000 people. A budget of
$55 Million with the lowest staff ratios per head of population in its category. Redcliffe's financial management was judged by the then Dept. of Treasury as being in the top five Councils of then 105 in the state. It was "Strong with a Neutral Position". It lived within it means.


1.Redcliffe had LOWER operational costs for the Council per head of population than this Amalgamated Council. It was cheaper to live in Redcliffe.

2. From a COMMUNITY aspect, RESEARCH clearly shows that Bigger is not Better as far as Local Government goes.

3. The only reason given to forcibly Amalgamate was that this Amalgamated Council would be cheaper for its residents. This is clearly not the case in both Rates as well as Water and Sewerage services. It is now more expensive to live in this huge Council and any discount on Rates has been lost.

4. "Community of Interest" between Redcliffe and surrounds as well as the matters mentioned above, was not assessed prior to forced Amalgamation.

5. The IDENTITY of Redcliffe has been lost since forced Amalgamation. Promotion of Redcliffe alone has ceased and "WELCOME" signs removed at the west of the City.

6. Previously you had eight votes for RCC. you could vote a whole Council in or out in the undivided City. Now you have one vote. You are worse off Democratically.

7. Services such as Town Planning, within the Redcliffe Council Chambers have been lost to Redcliffe

8. Water and Sewerage should come under Council's control.

9. The more money the amalgamated Council of Moreton Bay has the more it has to waste. The level of borrowing of Amalgamated Councils has trebled since they were put in place. They are living beyond their means and who is paying?

10. The 25% levy on general rates which now applies to non owner occupied residences, is responsible for forcing up RENTS

11. The cost estimated by Treasury to De amalgamate is $3 Million (for a Local Authority our size) We estimated a figure of $2.5 Million which could easily be accommodated in the budget. It would have very little impact on ratepayers if spread over several years.

12. A return to the old boundaries of Redcliffe (as the minister now requires) would result in the cheapest most viable council in the long term.

SCOTT DRISCOLL MP. HAS INITIATED A PETITION. IN SUPPORT, ALL VOTERS SHOULD RETURN SIGNED COPIES TO HIS OFFICE ASAP TO MEET THE AUGUST 29TH DEADLINE SET BY THE MINISTER. REMEMBER OTHER PETITIONS DON'T COUNT. A NEW PETITION IS REQUIRED.

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Advertisement Authorised by: Redcliffe Branch of the Ratepayers Action Group - Dennis Austen Shop 6,133 Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe 4020

RENTAL DEMAND SOARS AT PINE RIVERS

Soaring rental demand is sparking a new wave of investor interest in Moreton Bay’s emerging growth suburbs. It’s good news for Brisbane’s north and the region’s leading agency David Deane Real Estate, where yields of up to 6 per cent are being achieved for investors.

The month of May spurred unprecedented rental enquiry and the agency has appointed a full-time leasing consultant to further build relationships with its growing tenant list. The agency is averaging 15 new property managements and 30 lettings per month with 629 properties now under management.

In addition, there are 1000 prospective tenants on the agency’s rental database – an increase of 500 from the same time last year.

May settlements were also up with 21 properties sold at an average of $322,000.

Principal Belinda Deane said the suburbs of Warner, Petrie and Bald Hills are emerging hot spots providing solid returns for investors. “There are some very encouraging signs emerging and leasing and property management numbers are up on last year by more than 30 per cent,” she said.

“There are in excess of 1000 prospective tenants on our database who are emailed our rent list daily.”

The average rental price for a standard three-bedroom home in the aforementioned suburbs is $350 per week, up from around $330 in 2011.

Ms Deane said tenants are looking for three to four bedroom homes with built-ins, ensuite and low maintenance, fully-fenced yards.

“A note to investors – a lock up garage and air conditioning will also put your property ahead of the pack as does a convenient location to schools, transport and shopping centres,” she said. “Enquiry levels are through the roof and we have just appointed three new property managers to handle a surge in lettings. “We put a lot of work and effort into training our property managers with weekly training sessions and interstate conferences to ensure we deliver the best advice to our owners.

“You need to make sure your property managers are knowledgeable in investment management. We treat your home like it is our own, which is why we have been so successful in gaining leading market share across the region.

“We have also employed a customer service manager which has been a factor in our increase of new managements as we focus even more on our service and quality.”

Ms Deane said the additional team members have ensured service delivery proving ‘our people are the key asset in our growth’.

“This has made a dramatic difference to decreasing our days on market and being the number one agent in the area for reletting properties in minimum time. We have tenants phoning us wanting to get our daily rent list emailed to them,” she said.

“All these factors together have increased our growth and our aim is to always minimise our vacancy periods and relet properties as quickly and efficiently as possible.”

David Deane sales manager Mark Rumsey, said investors made up 15 per cent of sales during the March quarter with 62 per cent of those living in the local catchment area. A lot of the activity is being generated from those selling homes in the mid $300,000 category and upgrading to properties as high as $450,000.

“The positive signs are there and we have the ability to give properties the right exposure, provide the right marketing strategy for vendors and get buyers to the property,” he said.

Strathpine is ideally located just 23 kms from the Brisbane CBD. It is one of the only Brisbane suburbs with two railway stations, ensuring a smooth commuter flow in an out. Centred on Westfield Strathpine, the Strathpine Railway Station and local council chambers, the scale and mix of uses continues to expand to meet the broadening needs of the area’s growing population.

David Deane Real Estate was acknowledged at the recent 2012 annual Australasian Real Estate Results Network Awards (ARERA’s), where founder David Deane was honoured with a lifetime contribution award, while sales young gun Cassie Turner was awarded Rookie of the Year.



Visit www.daviddeane.com.au for more information.

PROPERTY UPGRADES DRIVE SOLID RESULTS FOR DAVID DEANE REAL ESTATE

AN increase in the number of home owners upgrading from existing dwellings is spurring sales activity in Strathpine, where leading realtor David Deane Real Estate achieved $26 million in sales during the March quarter. The agency sold 79 properties for a total of $26.5 million at an average price of $336,507.  The increased sales are a result of established home owners upgrading from existing properties and first home buyers who are also finding value in the growth suburb.

Sales director Mark Rumsey, said a lot of the activity is being generated from those selling homes in the mid $300,000 category and upgrading to properties as high as $450,000. “We are seeing a lot of confidence return to the market and people are realising that they can have an improved lifestyle which is still affordable,” he said. “From our perspective it’s still tough out there in some areas of the industry, but our March quarter was staggering when you compare our figures to that of some of our competitors.”

Mr Rumsey expected sentiment to be further bolstered with further interest rate cuts predicted over the next two quarters.

“The positive signs are there and we have the ability to give properties the right exposure, provide the right marketing strategy for vendors and get buyers to the property,” he said. Investors made up 10 per cent of sales during the quarter with 62 per cent of those living in the local catchment area.

Rental activity also increased on the last quarter by 4.3 per cent with 622 transactions.

Principal Belinda Deane, said the steady rise of enquiry throughout the first quarter is a testament to the local buyers market. “The feedback from buyers is that they have now realised that the market did in fact bottom out last year,” she said. “That momentum is continuing into the second quarter and we expect another strong result in our residential department.”

Strathpine is ideally located just 23 kms from the Brisbane CBD. It is one of the only Brisbane suburbs with two railway stations, ensuring a smooth commuter flow in and out.

Its economic engine room is the booming Brendale industrial area, the largest commercial estate in the Moreton Bay Regional Council area. It caters for 22 per cent of all employment within the Pine Rivers district. “The business district is exploding given its proximity to skilled workers and supporting business services, competitive land prices and good transport access,” said Ms Deane.

Adjacent to Brendale, is the intended $200 million Strathpine Major Regional Activity Centre Master Plan earmarked at the pivotal for Strathpine Central. This major project of significance has the potential to increase market growth for the entire region with a strong public transport focus, medium to high-density residential developments and commercial/office spaces increasing employment, with supporting community facilities, services and public open spaces.

David Deane Real Estate was acknowledged at the recent 2012 annual Australasian Real Estate Results Network Awards (ARERA’s), where founder David Deane was honoured with a lifetime contribution award, while sales young gun Cassie Turner was awarded Rookie of the Year.
Visit http://www.daviddeane.com.au/ for more information.

USA v Australia

I have just returned from a month travelling accross USA. I noticed several points of interest as follows:- Petrol was half the price we pay in QLD Clothes were a third of the price, same brands Beer was half the price we pay or less Taxes were half what we pay Household water was at least half the price we pay. Electricity was likewise cheaper No carbon tax or discussion, but did see bankrupt mmassive wind farms. Things are very tough in us and it looks like they are ready exile the big spending debt burden democrats. Ok it's easy to say they have a much bigger population in USA but we have much bigger government to make a mess of our lifestyles. It's time we gave all policians notice that they are appointed to spend wisely, provide well and respond to the majority and forget manic fringe groups?

Breakfast on the Beach with Olympians!

In honour of supporting Natalie Cook and Tamsin Hinchley on their journey to London for the Olympic Games we all enjoyed a beautiful breakfast on Friday 24th of March. Guest speakers included Winter Olympic Gold Medalist Steven Bradbury & 2008 Flag bearer and 6 time Olympian James Tompkins. We even had the chance to meet Madam Butterfly herself, Susie O'Neill! A fantastic morning had by all to support our champions!

Good Luck Nat & Tamsin!!

Australia's secret real estate hot spot?

Just north of Brisbane there is a town about to become a city, with massive government, council and private development. What a formulae for capital gain?
The development includes commercial, residential and governmental facilities known as Strathpine CBD, see press release here: http://northern-times.whereilive.com.au/news/story/strathpine-cbd-ideas-released/ .
The area already boasts two railway stations, with a new spur line from the western suburbs making this a major hub. Westfield's have a massive land bank and will probably expand their Strathpine Westfield centre into one of its bigger stores.
Now homes are currently great value priced from mid $200 to late $300 and generally show close to 6% rental return. Our rental market is strong.
It would be expected that the next 5/10 years will yield substantial returns, setting up future financial security and early retirement.
The smart operators are buying now so its time to jump into some fabulous value. We believe it to be the best in Australiasia.

Whats happening in house sales - who is selling what locally

House prices near bottom!! Home buyers beware.

We have seen increased buyer activity with double the number of sales for the previous three months over those achieved in the previous six months. Translated that's 100% increase in sales. Reports of increasing sales are coming in from all over Australian.

The shrewd buyers of recent months are being joined by some astute operators who know the share market will continue to languish for quite some time but houses have one direction in front, and that's more likely up. Probably not boom like increases but significant catch ups to the drops of the last two years and steady growth.

The rental market in our area is perhaps the best in the country with 6% yields common, that is better than bank interest on offer. Building has been subdued and land supply is short.

The ingredients are right, the time is right and remember opportunity rarely knocks twice. We have some fabulous homes available at very realistic prices, call now before its too late.http://www.daviddeane.com.au/

Whats happening in 2012 which might influence

The Westpac–Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Survey registered a slight improvement in the first two months of 2012 despite the RBA’s surprise decision to leave interest rates on hold at its Feb meeting and concerns that commercial banks would raise rates regardless (their decisions to do so came after our survey closed).
We suspect the improved situation in Europe, the flow through to the AUD and local sharemarkets, and the positive financial effects of the Nov-Dec rate cuts were key positives for sentiment. 
While the survey detail suggests a slightly bigger knock to underlying confidence from the RBA decision, a detailed breakdown of our extra question on interest rate expectations also suggests consumers may have been less convinced further rate cuts were on the way in the first place.
Labour market conditions were most clearly not behind the firmer sentiment readings. Consumers’ unemployment expectations instead deteriorated quite sharply in the first two months, particularly in the resource states that had led a previous improvement. 
Consumers may be more positive on the economy but appear much less convinced about their job security in 2012. 
Overall the theme of the survey in early 2012 appears to be uncertainty. Sentiment may have improved and been resilient to interest rate issues but it is still at a tepid level overall. Job security remains a key issue and there is little consensus around which way key aspects of the domestic economy – interest rates and housing markets – are heading over the next year. 
There may be little guidance near term either. Official labour market data released the week after the survey showed a strong Jan result. But against this we continue to see a steady stream of lay-off announcements in the first few weeks of 2012. 
Policy-wise, the RBA now looks set to stay on hold for a few months. We think there are another two rate cuts still to come but May and July now look to be the most likely timing with official rhetoric likely to sound neutral near term.  

BRISBANE AGENCY CLEANS UP AT REAL ESTATE OSCARS!!!

DAVID Deane Real Estate has taken a row of awards at the 2012 annual Australasian Real Estate Results Network Awards (ARERA’s) in Sydney.

The Strathpine-based agency glittered among a throng of industry hotshots at the 2012 annual Australasian Real Estate Results Network Awards (ARERA’s).

Mark Rumsey won the coveted Queensland Agent of the year; Cassie Turner (pictured with Michael Sheargold) won Rookie of the Year; Tia Jensen was awarded Support Star of the Year and principal David Deane was recognised with a Lifetime Contribution award.

Turner was a finalist in the same category in 2011 and impressed the judges to go one better on the weekend.

“It’s great to get the recognition as I have only been out on my own since May last year,” she says.

“We are seeing lots of enquiries this year, it’s definitely a buyers’ market and we expect that prices will stay at this level for a while yet.”

Turner sells up to five residential properties per month and is fast-tracking success after starting as a personal assistant.

Co-principal Belinda Deane, says the 22-year-old has a bright future.
“That’s what these awards are all about, celebrating and commending people for excellence and Cassie is such an inspiration to young people looking to enter the real estate industry,” she says.
“Cassie has had real estate coaching and continues to go from strength to strength and ahead in leaps and bounds. Determined to succeed, she is a fantastic role model for our younger team members and our clients absolutely love her. She delivers what she says she will deliver and is results driven.”

Held at a swanky soiree on a 140ft glass island ‘starship’ at King St Wharf on Sydney Harbour, the Awards celebrated Australasia's leading network of independent realtors.

Picking up the Agency of the Year 2012 was a sweet victory for McConnell Bourn Estate Agents. The Lindfield-based realtor was recognised for outstanding achievements in the industry during 2011, with a strong focus on service excellence, community achievement and innovation.

Founded by Matthew and Samantha Bourn in 2000, the couple sought a shift away from the 'large multi-office' mentality and have since created a workplace culture that inspires staff and an agency that strives to be the best in the game.

“This award means a lot to the agency and all of our hard working team who go above and beyond to help make McConnell Bourn an industry leader. It’s nice to be recognised for the amount of effort our entire team contributes,” says Matthew.

“With a passion for the industry and a trademark perspective on providing unparalleled attention to detail, we are making an indelible mark on real estate after bringing together a talented team that broadens the company's scope of work.”

McConnell Bourn is now firmly established as one of the fastest growing real estate companies in Australia and has placed in BRW's Fast 100 list both in 2008 and 2010.

“We employ an energetic, dedicated and closely integrated team, each bringing their unique skills to the firm and each dedicated to providing a personal and professional experience. Awards like this boost morale and it is a testament to the energy and results of our team ,” adds Matthew.

Cunninghams Property cleaned up with former professional surfer Kingsley Looker winning NSW Agent of the Year; Principal of the Year was awarded to John Cunningham; Georgi Coward scooped the Marketing Campaign of the Year (+$5000); while the company won Boutique Agency of the Year.

Other big winners included Regional Agency of the Year (Cutlers), Rural Agency of the Year (The Property Shop); New Zealand Agency of the Year (Lugton’s) and Agent of the Year Marcus Chiminello from Marshall White & Co.

Real Estate Results Network founder and CEO Michael Sheargold, congratulated the finalists on not just surviving in 2011, but thriving during a challenging year.
“The awards are hotly contested by some of the nation’s top performers and again we were impressed by the high level of competence and quality shown by agencies and the people behind the brands,” he says.

“There is such a diversity of skills showcased across a broad category base and each and every finalist and of course all of the winners have stepped up to the plate and excelled.”

Winners’ list – 2012 ARERA’s
Agency of the Year (Metro): mcconnell bournAgency of the Year (Regional): Cutlers

Agency of the Year (Rural): The Property Shop

New Zealand Agency of the Year: Lugton’s

Agent of the Year: Marcus Chiminello (Marshall White & Co)

New Zealand Agent of the Year: Terry Ryan (Lugton’s)

New Zealand Agent Achiever of the Year: Lisa Sigley (Lugton’s)

Agent Achiever of the Year: Chris Walsh (Newton Real Estate)

Regional Agent Achiever of the Year: Lucas Sheppard (The Property Shop)

Auctioneer of the Year: Daniel Wheeler (Marshall White & Co)

Boutique Agency of the Year: Cunninghams Property

Community Achievement of the Year: Chris Peake Real Estate

Marketing Agency of the Year: Caporn Young Estate Agents

Marketing Campaign of the Year < $5,000: Tony Santolin (Griffith Real Estate)

Marketing Campaign of the Year > $5,000: Georgi Coward (Cunninghams Property)

Principal of the Year: John Cunningham (Cunninghams Property)Property Management Team of the Year: Nolan and Partners Estate Agents

Property Manager of the Year: Jaylee Dixon (Bendigo Real Estate)

Rising Star Agency of the Year: Chris Peake Real Estate

Rising Star of the Year: Nathan Thomas (Griffith Real Estate)

Rookie of the Year: Cassie Turner (David Deane Real Estate)

Service Excellence of the Year: mcconnell bourn

Support Star of the Year: Tia Jensen (David Deane Real Estate)

NSW Agent of the Year: Kingsley Looker (Cunninghams Property)

Vic Agent of the Year: Madeline Kennedy (Marshall White & Co.)

Qld Agent of the Year: Mark Rumsey (David Deane Real Estate)

WA Agent of the Year: Peter Reid (Bazzo Real Estate)

Lifetime Contribution: David Deane (David Deane Real Estate)

Congratulations to all involved!

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It's more than just a Boom!

THE economic phase Australia is entering is being described as a resources boom. I believe this is wrong.

The term boom implies a relatively short, sharp upturn to be followed by an inevitable bust.
I believe we’re seeing long-term structural change, one in which Australia is the principal source of the resources developing nations need to build and to create energy.
It’s akin to the dominant paradigm of the past 50 years: that the world runs on oil and it gets more of it from the Middle East than anywhere else.

A third of the world’s oil production happens in Middle Eastern countries, headed by Saudi Arabia, Iran, United Arab Emirates (including Dubai and Sharjah) and Kuwait. The region is also prominent in natural gas production, headed by Iran, Saudi Arabia and Qatar. Nations such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Dubai and Qatar have not had a boom; they’ve had long-term sustained demand for their products stretching back many decades. The new paradigm features the rise of new forces in the world economy: China, India, Russia, Brazil, Malaysia, Indonesia and South Korea, to name a few. Africa is starting to emerge as a significant economic force also.

China’s growth is not a flash-in-the-pan scenario. China is on a path to becoming one of the world’s dominant economic powers; and it plans to stay there. India is equally important in terms of demand for Australian resources. India’s economic ambitions are as driven as China’s and we’re starting to see the first big Indian investment in Australia’s resources sector, particularly in Queensland’s coal industry.

This too is not a short-term scenario. India is not just buying from us. It’s investing big time for the long term.
Individual companies are making multibillion-dollar investments in mines, rail lines and export terminals. They’re here for the long haul, with projects that have 20, 30 or 40-year horizons.
The same is true of China, Malaysia and South Korea. Many of the resources developments happening in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland have joint-venture partners from these key Asian economies.

In August, Simon Crean, federal Minister for Regional Australia, said “Australia will become the Saudi Arabia of gas”. He was suggesting Australia would be to gas what Saudi Arabia has been to oil: the leading supplier across the long term. I think he’s right. The four largest liquefied natural gas projects in WA entail investment totalling $115 billion and the four big coal seam gas to LNG developments focused on Gladstone in Queensland are worth about $70bn.

Keep in mind that they all have sales contracts in place for much of the gas they will produce for decades into the future, with India, South Korea, Malaysia, China and Indonesia important customers.
In terms of their effect on the Australian economy, it’s significant that they are only in the early stages of construction, in most cases. The big impact in terms of jobs and business spending is still to come.
The same is true of the expansion programs by the big iron ore miners in WA and the growth plans of coal miners in Queensland and NSW.

In 2001, there were 26,500 employed in the mining sector in WA. Ten years later there are 101,100 jobs and plenty more still to be created as the big projects like Gorgon get under way.
The number of fly-in, fly-out workers moving through Perth Airport is already at record levels, with more growth on the way.

The creation of new or upgraded export facilities is a growth industry in itself. The various plans for Port Hedland, Geraldton and Gladstone – each a $5bn-plus undertaking – are massive. Newcastle in NSW has multibillion-dollar port facilities planned by three different entities. In Queensland, multiple new terminals costing billions are proposed near Mackay and the expansion of Port Abbot near Bowen now entails six new coal export terminals totalling $9bn. Property investors with assets in those locations can feel some comfort that the growth forces are long term, rather than a boom.

THE economic phase Australia is entering is being described as a resources boom. I believe this is wrong.
The term boom implies a relatively short, sharp upturn to be followed by an inevitable bust.
I believe we’re seeing long-term structural change, one in which Australia is the principal source of the resources developing nations need to build and to create energy. It’s akin to the dominant paradigm of the past 50 years: that the world runs on oil and it gets more of it from the Middle East than anywhere else.
A third of the world’s oil production happens in Middle Eastern countries, headed by Saudi Arabia, Iran, United Arab Emirates (including Dubai and Sharjah) and Kuwait. The region is also prominent in natural gas production, headed by Iran, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Nations such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Dubai and Qatar have not had a boom; they’ve had long-term sustained demand for their products stretching back many decades. The new paradigm features the rise of new forces in the world economy: China, India, Russia, Brazil, Malaysia, Indonesia and South Korea, to name a few. Africa is starting to emerge as a significant economic force also.

China’s growth is not a flash-in-the-pan scenario. China is on a path to becoming one of the world’s dominant economic powers; and it plans to stay there. India is equally important in terms of demand for Australian resources. India’s economic ambitions are as driven as China’s and we’re starting to see the first big Indian investment in Australia’s resources sector, particularly in Queensland’s coal industry.
This too is not a short-term scenario. India is not just buying from us. It’s investing big time for the long term.
Individual companies are making multibillion-dollar investments in mines, rail lines and export terminals. They’re here for the long haul, with projects that have 20, 30 or 40-year horizons.

The same is true of China, Malaysia and South Korea. Many of the resources developments happening in Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland have joint-venture partners from these key Asian economies.

In August, Simon Crean, federal Minister for Regional Australia, said “Australia will become the Saudi Arabia of gas”. He was suggesting Australia would be to gas what Saudi Arabia has been to oil: the leading supplier across the long term. I think he’s right. The four largest liquefied natural gas projects in WA entail investment totalling $115 billion and the four big coal seam gas to LNG developments focused on Gladstone in Queensland are worth about $70bn.

Keep in mind that they all have sales contracts in place for much of the gas they will produce for decades into the future, with India, South Korea, Malaysia, China and Indonesia important customers.
In terms of their effect on the Australian economy, it’s significant that they are only in the early stages of construction, in most cases. The big impact in terms of jobs and business spending is still to come.
The same is true of the expansion programs by the big iron ore miners in WA and the growth plans of coal miners in Queensland and NSW.

In 2001, there were 26,500 employed in the mining sector in WA. Ten years later there are 101,100 jobs and plenty more still to be created as the big projects like Gorgon get under way.
The number of fly-in, fly-out workers moving through Perth Airport is already at record levels, with more growth on the way.

The creation of new or upgraded export facilities is a growth industry in itself. The various plans for Port Hedland, Geraldton and Gladstone – each a $5bn-plus undertaking – are massive. Newcastle in NSW has multibillion-dollar port facilities planned by three different entities. In Queensland, multiple new terminals costing billions are proposed near Mackay and the expansion of Port Abbot near Bowen now entails six new coal export terminals totalling $9bn.

Property investors with assets in those locations can feel some comfort that the growth forces are long term, rather than a boom.

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