Low vacancy rates, rising rents and the stabilising of property prices in most states is a great opportunity for Australians to consider buying an investment property, according to one of Australia's leading mortgage brokers.
Mortgage Choice National Corporate Affairs Manager, Warren O'Rourke said that with a number of prominent economists saying interest rates will remain stable for at least 2007, now may be one of the better times to take on a mortgage or refinance for investment purposes.
"Great gains can be made from purchasing property if you buy in the right place at the right time," Mr O'Rourke said.
Mortgage Choice suggests the following tips for those looking to invest their hard earned money in a piece of Australia.
Create a long-term property portfolio plan
Realise that investing in property is usually a long-term strategy. The housing market is generally a 7-10 year cycle; it's a rollercoaster ride that has highs, lows and steady patches. Always ensure you are comfortable with the advantages and disadvantages associated with a particular investment asset. Consider your goals and all possible outcomes. For example, you may find a fantastic long-term tenant or you may have trouble keeping tenants - will you be able to afford the rent money lost and increased property agent costs involved if this happens?
Consider all costs + positive vs. negative gearing
Keep in mind that the interest and related expenses you incur (such as repairs and maintenance) are tax deductible. If your loan repayments, fees and other costs exceed your rental income, the net loss can be offset against other income you derive, meaning you will be able to reduce the amount of tax payable on your other income. This is called negative gearing. Or, you may consider positive gearing, where the annual rental income received from the property covers or is higher than the annual loan repayments and costs. Also, think about capital gains tax you will have to pay if you decide to sell the property. Be sure to consult your taxation advisor.
Research research research
Read property-related articles, use reputable property research companies and the Real Estate Institute of Australia, search the internet, plus talk to people in the know, to research the areas you are interested in buying within. Find out each area's average rental yields, what infrastructure is in place and planned, and the property price growth that has been experienced and is expected. Invest the time to fully understand the market - it could save you thousands.
Consider using the equity in any other property you own
Tapping into your home equity, or equity from another property investment, is a great launching platform for buying an investment property. Say your home is valued at $700,000, you owe $350,000 on your mortgage and you want to invest 10% of the equity (or $35,000) into another property. You can do so provided that you comfortably afford your repayments.
Think about buying with friends, family or work colleagues
Each year, affordability is a concern for many, so more and more Australians are taking advantage of pooling their resources with people they know in order to get into the property market or increase their property market `wealth'. With myriad lender and home loan options now in the marketplace, all it takes for applicants to have their application approved is the ability to meet home loan repayment requirements.
It is of no consequence if one party earns more, or has greater liabilities, than the other/s - the home loan can still be paid off by all involved. The only difference is at the end of the loan term the property may not be owned in equal parts. An initial visit to the solicitor will result in a contract that outlines who pays what and how much of the property each applicant will own after paying off the mortgage.
Choose a loan tailored to your current needs
Depending on your monetary situation and current investment portfolio, there are a range of property loan products for you to consider. Will you go with an interest only or a principal and interest loan? Fixed or variable rate? Which features are needed? Will you provide a deposit or choose a 100% or even a 110% loan? Apply for a loan that suits your current needs and lifestyle because you can always refinance later.
Visit a financial advisor and/or accountant
You also need to discuss your full monetary situation with someone who is very experienced with clients who have a range of investment assets because you need to make sure that your financial situation is improved by an investment property and that you can afford repayments without stretching the budget uncomfortably. Remember, you must make this investment work for you and your long-term strategy.
