Archive for Harcourts The Property People

The pros and cons of buying an apartment

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 24 February 2019 

House or apartment – it’s a choice that looms large in the minds of many first-time buyers into the real estate market.

Undoubtedly there are cost advantages of buying an apartment over a house. And apartments tend to be located close to major centres with easy access to public transport, shops and facilities. Houses are more expensive than units in the same area, and therefore you often have to compromise on location to get a house for a similar budget to an apartment. However, longer term capital growth is usually higher on houses than apartments.

Aside from this, here are some of the pros and cons of apartment living:

PRO – With no lawns, no fences to repair, and no gutters to clean, apartments offer the ideal living arrangements for anyone who has a hectic business life and/or enjoys a full social life. Even in the event of an internal maintenance issue, you can often call upon the strata appointed handyman to fix the problem.

CON – For those who love renovating, apartment living will hamper your creativity when it comes to exterior design. And gardeners, who enjoy growing some of their own food, may need to be satisfied with herbs and cherry tomatoes on the balcony.

PRO – With most employment focused in the CBD in close proximity to apartments, they offer unparalleled convenience for city workers, not only
to work, but also to so many other city-based amenities, such as restaurants, clubs and entertainment. Centrally based apartments are also easier to rent out for future investment.

CON – There’s no escape from noisy neighbours. Despite vast improvement in sound insulation technology, sound seepage through walls, ceilings or floors can be an ongoing irritant.

PRO – If you do choose to renovate an apartment internally – whether to increase the value of the property or for your own taste and enjoyment – you can typically achieve much more on a smaller budget than renovating a house.

CON – For young couples that purchase an apartment early in their relationship, apartments present no opportunity to extend for a growing family.

Apartment owners also need to consider the complex’s community. As an owner, you inherit the right to participate in the collective of owners often referred to as the “owner’s corporation” or “body corporate”. In this community of fellow owners, usually in consultation with an external Strata Manager, you take on the responsibility of managing the overall property (mainly external and grounds).

Whether you see this as a “pro” or a “con” is a matter of perspective. Many people who own houses, love the freedom of making individual decisions regarding their property. Many apartment owners enjoy being part of a community of owners, sharing the responsibilities and costs. It’s all about preference and perspective.

At Harcourts we have many homes and apartments, both new and old for sale. See our website for available properties, or talk to one of our Sales Consultants on 4628 7444, and let them know what you are looking for.

Categories : All Categories, Buying, Campbelltown Real Estate, First home buyer
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Choosing house or apartment?

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 25 January 2019 

House or apartment – it’s a choice that looms large in the minds of many first-time buyers into the real estate market.

Undoubtedly there are cost advantages of buying an apartment over a house. And apartments tend to be located close to major centres with easy access to public transport, shops and facilities. Houses are more expensive than units in the same area, and therefore you often have to compromise on location to get a house for a similar budget to an apartment. However, longer term capital growth is usually higher on houses than apartments.

Aside from this, here are some of the pros and cons of apartment living:

PRO – With no lawns, no fences to repair, and no gutters to clean, apartments offer the ideal living arrangements for anyone who has a hectic business life and/or enjoys a full social life. Even in the event of an internal maintenance issue, you can often call upon the strata appointed handyman to fix the problem.

CON – For those who love renovating, apartment living will hamper your creativity when it comes to exterior design. And gardeners, who enjoy growing some of their own food, may need to be satisfied with herbs and cherry tomatoes on the balcony.

PRO – With most employment focused in the CBD in close proximity to apartments, they offer unparalleled convenience for city workers, not only to work, but also to so many other city-based amenities, such as restaurants, clubs and entertainment. Centrally based apartments are also easier to rent out for future investment.

CON – There’s no escape from noisy neighbours. Despite vast improvement in sound insulation technology, sound seepage through walls, ceilings or floors can be an ongoing irritant.

PRO – If you do choose to renovate an apartment internally – whether to increase the value of the property or for your own taste and enjoyment – you can typically achieve much more on a smaller budget than renovating a house.

CON – For young couples that purchase an apartment early in their relationship, apartments present no opportunity to extend for a growing family.

Apartment owners also need to consider the complex’s community. As an owner, you inherit the right to participate in the collective of owners often referred to as the “owner’s corporation” or “body corporate”. In this community of fellow owners, usually in consultation with an external Strata Manager, you take on the responsibility of managing the overall property (mainly external and grounds).

Whether you see this as a “pro” or a “con” is a matter of perspective. Many people who own houses, love the freedom of making individual decisions regarding their property. Many apartment owners enjoy being part of a community of owners, sharing the responsibilities and costs. It’s all about preference and perspective.

At Harcourts we have many homes and apartments, both new and old for sale. See our website for available properties, or talk to one of our Sales Consultants on 4628 7444, and let them know what you are looking for.

Categories : All Categories, Buying
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Why hold open homes when selling?

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 21 January 2019 

Open homes are an important part of the sale process. It is where buyers get to see your home up-close, and from which they make their own comparisons and judgements between your property and others on the market.

Having your property “open home ready” is even more important in the current market, as there are quite a few properties for sale, and buyers are being very selective – they are hunting around to get the best value for their money.

So, how can you best prepare for an open home? Your sales consultant will do all the marketing necessary to attract the maximum number of visitors to your open home. However, when you have them there, you will want to ensure you present your home in the best possible light.

HERE ARE 10 QUICK TIPS ON HOW TO MAKE YOUR PROPERTY “OPEN HOME READY”

  1. Declutter – an overcrowded room looks unappealing and smaller than it actually is.
  2. Clean. No one likes the idea of living with another person’s dirt. If your home is clean and smells inviting, you are creating a great environment for viewers.
  3. Keep decor simple and put away family photographs. You want buyers to visualise their own things in the home, not being distracted by yours.
  4. Make each room count. Give each one a purpose so that your buyers can see how they could use it. Don’t leave any room as a storage place for your possessions.
  5. First impressions count. Think about the first aspects that potential buyers will see – like fencing, the letterbox and the driveway.
  6. Remember the small things count. Check light switches to make sure they work. Fix any doors or cupboards that don’t close. Fix leaky taps.
  7. If you can, give your walls a fresh coat of paint. Choose neutral colours so as to not individualise your property.
  8. At the open house, fresh flowers and soft music playing in the background gives a good impression.
  9. If cold outside, have a fire going or heaters on.
  10. Freshly brewed coffee or an aromatherapy oil burner can provide very inviting and positive smells when buyers are inspecting your home.

 SOME OF THE MANY ADVANTAGES OF OPEN HOME INSPECTIONS ARE:

  • You have time to prepare and ensure your property is tidy and ready for inspections.
  • You can control the viewing times.
  • Open homes can create plenty of activity, even in a slow market.
  • Interest and activity can trigger urgency with buyers.
  • At the open homes your sales consultant’s time is put to best and most effective use. They will have the opportunity to talk to numerous people about your property
  • Comments from open home visitors can provide feedback on price, presentation, sales appeal, etc.

For more information on effectively selling your home, contact the professionals at Harcourts The Property People on 4628 7444.

Categories : Sales, Selling
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Safety first this holiday season.

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 6 December 2018 

Whether you’re holidaying on the other side of world or down at your favourite beach spot, when you leave your home, there is an increased risk it will become a target for thieves. The good news is there are a few tips and tricks you can use which can make a huge difference in protecting your most valuable asset – your home.

DOUBLE-CHECK THE LOCKS
Check your home’s existing locks and if necessary refit new ones, such as deadlocks and bolts on doors and windows. Many homes have locks on windows that generally share the one key, so it’s a good idea to keep this key in a safe location (or even with you) whilst you’re on holiday.

KEEP KEYS IN A SAFE PLACE
Don’t leave house keys hidden outside, as experienced thieves will know where to look. Instead, leave a set of keys with trusted neighbours or friends or take them with you.

SURVEY OUTDOOR OBJECTS
Lock away garden tools and ladders as they could potentially help a would-be thief gain access into your home.

LET IN THE LIGHT
Use automatic timer switches for lamps, TVs or stereos to come on then turn off each night. This will give the illusion that someone is occupying your home and will deter potential thieves. Outdoor sensor lights are also a good idea not only to deter intruders but to help alert neighbours to someone’s presence around your home.

CLEAR THE LETTERBOX
Arrange to have you letterbox emptied daily. Nothing is a bigger signal to thieves than an overflowing letterbox, or newspapers piling up on the lawn. It may be a good idea to have your newspaper subscription paused or diverted to another address for the duration of your holiday.

LONG-TERM BREAKS
For longer holiday breaks, arrange to have your lawn mowed and the house aired with windows opened occasionally (whilst someone is at the house), so it’s apparent someone is either living-in or visiting the home regularly.

BE SOCIAL MEDIA SAVVY
Don’t leave a message on your phone indicating that you are away and be careful not to mention the duration of your trip on social media. Recent research has shown that thieves canvas social media to try and identify people who may be away and to locate their address. Also ensure you have strict privacy settings on your social media profiles.

HAVE SOMEONE STAY
If possible, ask a trusted friend or family member to be your housesitter.

MAKE A LIST OF VALUABLES
Keep an up-to-date list of any valuables such as jewellery, antiques, electronics and artwork. Take a photo of each item to keep on file and ensure your insurance company also has a copy. This will make the claim process much easier if something were to happen.

For all your real estate needs, contact your local professionals Harcourts The Property People on 4628 7444.

Categories : All Categories, Home security
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Home renovations that add security

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 30 November 2018 

It’s important to be savvy when renovating in and around your home. Not only should the improvements be of good quality and pleasing to the eye, but add to your home’s security.

Insurance companies tell us that most burglars enter via the garage door, back door, kitchen or bedroom window. Burglar-proof these and you’ll significantly improve your chances of not having to endure a break-in.

Here are a few things to consider to improve security:

Doors
When renovating, purchase new doors and lock systems, as this is one of the most effective ways to prevent intruders. Make sure the external doors are solid and robust, and if they are not, you should replace them or add a security screen. Also, have key-operated two-cylinder deadlocks fitted to all external hinged doors, as spring latch locks are easy to jimmy open with simple tools.

Sliding glass doors are also a favourite entry point for burglars. Fit key- operated locks or patio bolts to all external sliding doors, such as patio/ veranda doors. Sliding doors can also be made more secure by inserting a wood or metal dowel into the track to limit movement.

Windows
Large windows on the ground floor are easy targets for burglars, as are windows close to doors. If you’re planning a home addition or a full renovation, consider placing windows high on the wall away from doors.

When purchasing new windows, avoid regular glass windows. Double and triple pane windows or other toughened glass products are much harder to break through.

If you like to leave windows open at night, consider installing single cylinder window locks that only allow the window to be open a little, and stop the window being opened further for anyone to gain access into your home.

For additional security you can add a security grill, security screen or burglar bars to all accessible windows.

Lighting
Install light timers to switch on automatically if you aren’t home when it gets dark, or have gone away for a few days. The timers should mimic when you would usually switch lights on or off. They are not expensive and are available at most hardware stores.

Exterior lighting is also a good deterrent, provided it is switched on and off as though someone is at home. Make sure the approach to your house, especially any entryway, is brightly lit, controlled by a light timer if necessary – this also makes it safer and more comfortable if you come home after dark.

Motion sensor lights are a great idea, especially at the back of a house or bottom floor of an apartment. Infrared motion sensor lights are also easily available and are not very expensive. An unexpected light turning-on is a definite deterrent to a burglar who will wonder what other security devices you have in place.

Landscaping
You may not think landscaping has a lot to do with home security, but a smart landscaping scheme can help protect your home. Trees should be kept away from windows. While they provide privacy and shade, they also conceal your view of the outside and also conceal intruders trying to get into your house.

Installing a tall fence around your property will also ward off intruders as well as a dog in the yard.

Security System
A security system is a smart way to protect your home and family against burglars. Get the experts in to help you choose the best system for you and your home.

Lastly, remember to not leave things around the home like ladders or tools that can be used to break in and/or damage your property.

Harcourts The Property People are the leaders in local real estate. Should you need advice on your real estate needs, please do not hesitate to call us on 4628 7444.

Categories : All Categories, Home security, Renovating
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What millennials are looking for in a home.

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 20 November 2018 

Millennial is the term used to describe people born between 1981 and 1996. Recent research reveals that around 40% of home buyers are currently from this generation, so it is important if you are looking to sell to this group of buyers that you consider the attributes they are seeking in a home.

Most millennials view property differently, they often manage strict budgets, and are therefore price sensitive. They are generally fluent with accessing and analysing the massive amount of information about property and investing available on the Internet, and know how to find properties that offer value for money and the prospect of capital growth. They also understand that they need to start with a smaller property or unit as a stepping stone, or buy a house in a suburb where prices are affordable.

Millennials are also more likely to be first home owners and are therefore eligible for the government’s First Home Owner Grant and stamp duty concessions.

So, what are millennials looking for in a property?
Technology, modern design elements and lifestyle are undoubtedly some of the most attractive elements.

Millennials want top-quality wireless internet coverage and/or fibre optic connectivity, “green” features/innovations, and a home with top lifestyle features that is centrally located.

Internet/broadband coverage (whether wireless or fibre optic) is a top-of-mind consideration for this generation. A young family buying into a long-term commitment want to know that access to the internet will be fast and reliable. This information should be clearly displayed in your property’s marketing.

Millennials are looking for spaces that can double as a home office. The trend for many is to include a work station or tech hub at home, as many are based part or full-time working from home. With a few touches of technology or by adding connections, this buyer group can more easily imagine themselves living and working in the space.

Lifestyle options such as open-plan lounges, kitchens and outdoor entertaining areas are popular with young buyers. Make every effort to present these spaces to buyers, showing them how they can entertain their family and friends.

It is also important to note that these buyers are often starting a family, or getting ready to in the near future. Therefore, the interior and exterior areas must be applicable to young children and pose no safety risks. They are also attracted to properties that are close to neighbourhood parks and other amenities appealing to young families, and when selling, your Sales Consultant should highlight all these features to prospective buyers.

Going with the lifestyle, millennials prefer to live within a reasonable distance to the city centre. Good transport links, convenience, and having decent amenities within easy reach are highly regarded.

Lastly, the emphasis on building a sustainable future is a sentiment often expressed by millennials, and more enquiries about renewable energy and solar-powered facilities are being received. If you have solar power installed, or external lighting powered by the sun, then these are things you need to include in your property’s marketing.

For more information on selling your home, contact the professionals on 4628 7444.

Categories : All Categories, Buying, First home buyer
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Property Value Factors

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 29 October 2018 

When it comes to finding out the value of your home, there are a number of factors that should be taken into consideration.

The first place that many people turn to work out the value of their property is online. There are plenty of property valuation websites that claim to be accurate, but these should be taken with “a grain of salt” in ascertaining the value of your property.

Property value websites take into consideration general property attributes (i.e. bedrooms, bathrooms, car parking and land size) plus recent sale prices in the area to give you the estimate. While these are very helpful, the data is often old, markets can change quite quickly, and properties vary a lot! Also, the sample size of data these sites extract from can be small and/or erratic, under- valuing or over-valuing your property. For instance, these valuation websites would include sale prices within families, properties with major issues, or unusual properties that are highly sought-after as part of the equation.

There are also a number of other influences you should be aware of with property values:

External influences
External influences such as interest rate announcements or government changes to taxes or property incentives greatly influence the property market. These are obviously implemented to stimulate different segments or put pressure on others, creating swift change that can be seen very quickly in the property market.

Supply and demand
Low supply of properties with a large amount of buyer demand pushes property prices up. Conversely, a good supply of properties with fewer buyers pushes prices down. For instance, if there is a large number of buyers in the market for 4-bedroom homes, with little supply of 4-bedroom homes, this competition between buyers will push prices up.

Desirable property attributes
Properties with desirable attributes command higher than average prices. For instance, buyers are more likely to pay a premium for:

  • Multiple living areas.
  • Outdoor area that includes dining, BBQ and/or outdoor living.
  • Pool and/or spa.
  • Great views.
  • Theatre room or games room.
  • Large garaging and workshop space.
  • Good quality of materials throughout the home.
  • Great quality, well-designed kitchen with top grade appliances.
  • Property that is located in the catchment area of a highly desirable school.

The sales agent
Another area of variance is the real estate sales agent who sold the home. Property owners that have done their homework and have chosen an agent that is great at marketing to buyers and is a superior negotiator will gain a higher sale price. Conversely, an agent who is unskilled and inexperienced will negatively impact price.

To get an accurate value of your home, you should talk to an experienced local real estate agent to gain their feedback on the market.

At Harcourts, we have many highly skilled agents on our team. Contact our office on 4628 7444 to find the best agent in your area.

Categories : Buying, Preparing your property for sale, Selling
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The big picture to consider before buying an investment

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 12 October 2018 

To choose a high-performing investment property, you need to first and foremost understand the big picture.

Starting with high-level criteria can guide you to the right locality, and also give a good indication of what type of property in that location will suit your investment strategy (capital growth or rental income). Some information that relates to the following criteria is readily available to the public, and some involves a little research and assistance from specialists in the field. However, a little due diligence before choosing your investment property will be rewarded in the long run.

Here’s the key high-level criteria you should consider:

Population movements
If your strategy is growth, then population movement is the key. Long term growth is linked to long term population growth. Where population shrinks, so too do property prices and rent. The major cities experience their independent property cycles, but overall these cities and their decentralised urban centres will typically return good long-term growth.

Demographic changes
It will benefit your search to understand the likely changes to the demography of an area. For example, will there be more families, students, retirees or single young people moving to an area? Are these sectors of potential tenants likely to grow, remain the same, or shrink over the long term? This information will impact on the suitability of different types of dwellings.

Employment and economic growth
Employment and wage levels can have a bearing on house prices and dwelling activity. In areas where businesses are moving in, and earnings are rising, there is the prospect of higher wage levels resulting in more demand, and thus higher house prices and rents. Look for places where new long-term employment is being created.

Infrastructure spending
Cities and suburbs don’t grow by accident. It is people in high levels of government who plan and make the decisions that lead directly to growth. Large scale rail, road, airport or hospital projects will have a positive impact on surrounding property values. Investors can access information on upcoming large-scale projects on the Infrastructure Australia website. Information about state and local infrastructure is also readily available to the public. Local council websites are also a great source of this information.

Yield variations
Yield is the measure of how much cash an income generating asset produces each year as a percentage of that asset’s value. It can be calculated either as a gross or net figure.

Gross rental yield = annual rental income / market value x 100
Net yield = (annual rental income – annual expenses) / total property costs x 100

Rather than evaluating a region on average yield calculated in a snapshot of time, to paint the big picture, wise investors will seek to find out yield variations over time. An established region becomes more attractive for investment if it can demonstrate a consistent level of average yield over a period of time, as opposed to a region that may indicate short-term high yield.

Supply and demand
Purchase prices of properties and rent levels tend to move in response to the change of demand and supply. So, for prices to rise, demand of property must exceed supply.

Supply and demand can be heavily dependent on all previous criteria mentioned, however many other forces can come into play. Therefore, accurately measuring supply and demand for a suburb or area requires a lot of resources and time.

However, your search will be benefitted by being aware of some of the indicators of supply and demand such as average property days on market, vacancy rates, the level of property discounting to achieve sale, auction clearance rates and proportion of renters to owner occupiers in the area.

At Harcourts, we can help you with this information. Take the time to learn more about the big picture factors, and your chance of choosing a successful investment property will greatly increase.

Categories : All Categories, Investment, Property Management
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September’s auction results

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 8 October 2018 

On Wednesday 26th of September at the Catholic Club in Campbelltown, a crowd gathered to watch and bid on some fantastic local properties. The auction included five former social housing properties that are part of the renewal of the Airds/Bradbury area.

Three of the five properties submitted to the auction campaign were sold at the auction event.

Here’s the summary:
BRADBURY, 184 St Johns Road – SOLD at auction!
BRADBURY, 2 Summers Place – SOLD at auction!
AIRDS, 19 Boonoke Place – Passed-in
BRADBURY, 9 Harrah Place – SOLD at auction!
AIRDS, 17 Moonbria Place – Passed-in

The properties that were “Passed-in” at the event have good interest, and we expect these will be sold very shortly.

This has been another great auction event, delivering fantastic results. All properties sold, were above their reserve prices.

SEPTEMBER AUCTION EVENT STATISTICS:

  • Three of the five properties were SOLD – an 60% clearance rate.
  • Our team achieved an average of 19.4 buyer inspections per property leading up to the auction.
  • There was an average of 6.8 bidders per property at the auction event.
  • Results averaged $22,333 over our seller’s reserve prices.

Our experience and results over the last five years in running monthly auction events, clearly illustrates that auction is a great way of getting buyers and sellers together for optimum results.

Other methods of sale are effective too, however none have the absolute transparency of the auction method. At our auction events, both buyers and sellers witness the process in action!

If you are considering selling, here are five reasons why “Auction” is a great way of selling your home:

  1. Auction is a method where there is no defined price, allowing competition and negotiation to get you the best price for your home.
  2. Negotiations are done live, allowing all buyers to see their competition and participate by “bidding”. As a seller, you will also see this process as it unfolds.
  3. All buyers are given fair and equal opportunity to bid against each other.
  4. When bids go over your “reserve price” (the lowest price you will accept) and you are “on the market”, at the fall of the hammer the person with the highest bid will own your property and sign the contract.
  5. There is no cooling-off period with an auction sale – the sale is final.

A big “thank you” to all our sellers and buyers from our auction event. Thanks also to our Auctioneer, Paul Casarotto, and our supporter Domain, The Macarthur Advertiser and Harcourts NSW.

FOR DETAILS ON OUR NEXT IN-ROOM AUCTION EVENT, VISIT OUR WEBSITE PROPERTYPEOPLE.NET.AU OR SPEAK TO ONE OF OUR SALES TEAM ON 4628 7444 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

Categories : All Categories, Auction
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Which market are you in?

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 28 September 2018 

The average time it takes to sell a home indicates the market climate. It is very important that a seller understands the market they are selling within, and the average time it takes to sell a property.

There are three types of market climates:

1) A seller’s market
A seller’s market is where there are lots of buyers looking to purchase, and very few homes available for sale. This high demand for property is in the seller’s favour, as properties spend less time on the market and sale prices increase due to scarcity.

For sellers this is the perfect scenario, where they can be firm on price and the conditions of sale. That is, if a buyer is not prepared to pay the price with the required conditions, then buyer number two or three will.

2) A buyer’s market
A buyer’s market is in reverse. There are lots of homes for sale and very few buyers. This high demand for buyers is in the buyer’s favour, as properties stay on the market much longer, and sale prices reduce to compete for “ready-to-purchase” buyers.

Here the buyers are in a strong position. They know they can look for a price reduction and influence the conditions of the sale. They also know that should a seller not accept their offer, they can look at other suitable properties that will accept their terms.

3) A balanced market
A balanced market is where the numbers of buyers and properties for sale are about equal. Neither buyer nor seller has an advantage as properties are not languishing on the market, nor are they desperately being snaffled up.

You should ask your Sales Consultant about the current market in your location.

However, you should keep in mind that if you’re selling your property and then buying another in the same market, the current market climate is not as important. You are either buying and selling ‘high’ in the ‘seller’s market’, buying and selling ‘low‘ in the ‘buyer’s market’, or transacting in a balanced market. With any of these scenarios you are not disadvantaged as you are buying and selling within the same market climate.

Should you have any questions on your real estate needs, contact the professionals at Harcourts The Property People on 4628 7444.

Categories : Buying, Selling
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Five mistakes to avoid when selling your home

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 22 September 2018 

When selling your home, you should be looking to achieve the best result in a reasonable time frame. Following are the five main mistakes many sellers make that are best to be avoided:

1. Having unrealistic price expectations
One of the key reasons some properties sit on the market for too long is because they are not priced correctly at the start, targeting the wrong group of buyers.

Most properties receive the highest level of interest in the first couple of weeks of the property being marketed. This is the optimum time when you have multiple ready-buyers competing for your property, driving the price up. After this time, buyer enquiry tends to wane, and the longer a property sits on the market, the lower the enquiry rate.

Tip: To ensure your property is priced correctly, do your research, be realistic, and look at your home objectively. You should also speak to a knowledgeable Sales Consultant who will show you recent comparable sales to help you work out the price range your home will likely sell for.

2. Using poor quality photographs to market your home
The images of your property that appear in print, online, and through other marketing channels, are the first and possibly only impression you will make on potential buyers – so they need clearly illustrate the best features of your home and be of top quality!

Statistics show that homes listed online with professional photos get more views, so it’s well worth the investment.

3. Not carrying out necessary maintenance or repairs
It’s a good idea to have all repairs done before you have buyers inspect your home. Little things can detract from your home’s presentation, resulting in less and lower offers.

Tip: Your Sales Consultant can offer you suggestions to help you best present your property.

4. Investing too little in marketing
Investing in your marketing campaign is very important, as this will help to ensure your property is visible to as many potential buyers in the market place as possible.

The latest research from Harcourts Group Australia, showed a direct correlation between the amounts spent on marketing and how much interest and enquiry there was on properties.

Tip: Speak with your Sales Consultant about the best marketing plan for your property.

5. Failing to interview potential Sales Consultants
Choosing a Sales Consultant is a critical part of the home-selling process. After all, you will want to work with someone you trust to achieve the best result for your home.

There is nothing wrong with meeting a few Sales Consultants to see what each has to offer. Look at things such as experience, qualifications, current sales results, ability to negotiate, and someone you believe is working in your best interests.

For more advice on selling your home, speak to one of our Sales Consultants today.

Categories : Preparing your property for sale, Selling
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Going, going gone! Why Auction.

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 12 September 2018 

When it comes to selling your house, we know getting the very best price with the least stress is your top priority. Auctions are often the best way to achieve this, as well as offering several other benefits for sellers too. Read on to find out why going under the hammer will likely work for you.

Short and sweet
Auctions get maximum exposure for your property in a short period of time with a structured, intensive marketing campaign over three to four weeks. This approach not only creates a sense of urgency for buyers, but has the added advantage of meaning you won’t have to keep your house clean for months of open homes or agent visits, and you have a defined timeline to plan around.

The market decides the price
Rather than guessing at the value of your home, and placing a ceiling on what people will pay for it, auctions allow buyers to decide for themselves what a property is worth. This means you get a true market value for your home if it sells at auction.

Competition is maximised
A property is worth what any one party is prepared to pay for it, so creating fair competition for your home can push buyers to truly consider their top price come auction day, and may result in you getting more than expected when the hammer finally comes down.

Signed, sealed, delivered
An auction sale is an unconditional sale, which means that once your home passes the reserve (set by you) and the auctioneer declares it sold, you can sign the paperwork and know the deal is done. This eliminates drawn-out contract negotiations, and is often the best option for anyone needing quick settlement terms for another purchase.

Passed in, but not passed on
If your home is ‘passed in’, meaning it doesn’t sell at auction, the intense interest and buyer activity generated in the lead-up to the auction means you usually have an increased chance of selling the home at a negotiated price to interested parties. Your Sales Consultant will already know who is genuinely interested in the property and can deal direct with them to see if an agreement can be reached.

At Harcourts The Property People and Harcourts Lifestyles, our experience and results over the last four years of monthly auction events proves that our auction method is a great way of getting buyers and sellers together for optimum results. Contact one of our Sales Consultants today for more information and to view our past auction results.

Categories : Auction, Selling
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First Home Buyer Guide.

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 27 August 2018 

As we head into the busy Spring selling season, and interest rates remain steady, we are seeing more first home buyers heading into the local market to secure their first property.

Buying your first home is a big step, but also an exciting one! There is quite a lot to consider before buying your first home. To make things easier, we’ve put together a list of things to explore before purchasing your first property.

GOVERNMENT INCENTIVES
As a first home buyer in New South Wales, you may be entitled to the Government’s first home buyer grants or concessions. There are two major schemes:

The First Home Owner Grant (New Home) scheme was established to assist eligible first home owners purchase a new home or build their home. A $10,000 grant is available to first home buyers where the value of the new home purchased does not exceed $600,000 or for a property where you enter into a comprehensive building contract, or are an owner builder where the total value does not exceed $750,000.

The First Home Buyers Assistance scheme provides exemptions or concessions on transfer duty for eligible NSW first home buyers. A duty exemption on new and existing homes valued up to $650,000 and vacant land valued up to $350,000. A duty concession on new and existing homes valued between $650,000 and $800,000, and vacant land between $350,000 and $450,000.

For more information, go to this website link:
https://www.revenue.nsw.gov.au/first-home-buyers

BUDGET
Drawing up a budget of what you can realistically afford is a great idea. You should factor in any additional expenses to home ownership (covered below under Additional Costs). Once you’ve drafted a personal budget, the next step is to talk to a mortgage broker about the best home loan on the market for you.

DUE DILIGENCE
It’s vital to do your due diligence before buying a home. This means inspecting the property in person if practical, and ensuring the proper building and pest inspections are carried out. Building and pest inspections do incur a cost, however they ensure there is no structural issues or damage from pests.

ADDITIONAL COSTS
Apart from a home deposit and the ongoing cost of mortgage repayments, there are other fees and charges you should be aware of before buying your first home:

Stamp duty
Stamp duty can be a considerable cost to factor in when buying your home. The amount of stamp duty you’ll pay is dependent on the state you’re buying the property in. Some states have first home buyer concessions or exemptions on stamp duty. Stamp duty can also be borrowed as part of your home loan.

Lawyers/conveyancing fees
It is a good idea to have a solicitor or conveyancer look over the contract of sale and mortgage documents before signing a sale agreement. Fees can vary.

Building and pest inspections costs
As mentioned, it’s definitely worth investing in a one-off building and pest inspection before signing a contract, or as part of a condition of sale to ensure your potential home is structurally sound and pest free.

Home and contents insurance
Remember that home insurance is an essential part of the home-buying process. Insuring your home is something that needs to be organised and ready to take effect as soon as you settle on your property. So, make sure you have looked at your options and have chosen an insurance product that best suits your needs and budget.

First home buyers should also research the market fully, including looking at established homes. Older properties may not attract all the government concessions, but could represent better value.

At Harcourts The Property People we have many properties for sale suited to first home buyers. Speak to one of our sales team, or visit our website at www.propertypeople.net.au.

Categories : All Categories, Buying, First home buyer
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Our August auction event and results

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 20 August 2018 

On Wednesday 8th of August at the Catholic Club in Campbelltown, a crowd gathered to watch and bid on some fantastic local properties. The auction included four former social housing properties that are part of the renewal of the Airds/Bradbury area.

Five of the six properties submitted to the auction campaign were SOLD at or before the auction event.

Here’s the summary:

BRADBURY, 8 Harrah Place – SOLD at auction!
AIRDS, 10 Haddon Rig Place – SOLD at auction!
BRADBURY, 192 St Johns Road – SOLD at auction!
AIRDS, 13 Boonoke Place – SOLD at auction!
CAMPBELLTOWN, 66 Hoddle Avenue – Passed-in
GLEN ALPINE, 9 Bishopscourt Place – SOLD prior to auction!

The property that was “Passed-in” at the event has strong interest, and will be negotiated and finalised in the next week.

This has been another great auction event, delivering fantastic results to our clients. Most of our properties sold above their reserve prices.

AUGUST AUCTION EVENT STATISTICS:

  • Five of the six properties were SOLD – an 83% clearance rate.
  • Our team achieved an average of 28 buyer inspections per property leading up to the auction.
  • There was an average of 9.5 bidders per property at the auction event.
  • Results averaged $27,250.00 over our sellers’ reserve prices.

Our experience and results over the last four years of monthly auction events has clearly illustrated to us that our auction method is a great way of getting buyers and sellers together for optimum results.

Other methods of sale are effective too, however none have the absolute transparency of the auction method. At our auction events, both buyers and sellers witness the process in action!

If you are looking to buy a property that is being sold by auction, here are some important points to keep in mind:

  • Under the auction method, all buyers are given equal opportunity to buy.
  • When you are bidding on a property, you know and can see who your competitors are.
  • If you are purchasing under auction conditions, you know you are dealing with a seller who is committed to selling.
  • At the fall of the hammer, the auction is final, and if you are successful, the property is yours with no further negotiation. The contract is then signed straight away.

A big “thank you” to all our sellers and buyers from our August auction event. Thanks also to our Auctioneer, Paul Casarotto, and our supporter Domain, The Macarthur Advertiser and Harcourts NSW.

OUR NEXT IN-ROOM AUCTION EVENT WILL BE HELD ON WEDNESDAY 26TH OF SEPTEMBER. SEE OUR WEBSITE PROPERTYPEOPLE.NET.AU FOR MORE INFORMATION, OR CALL OUR OFFICE ON 4628 7444.

Categories : Auction, Selling
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Spring into action with your property

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 27 July 2018 

Spring is a little over a month away, and is the season when the property market is at its peak. Maximum buyers and sellers are in the market; properties are looking their best with beautiful gardens and plenty of natural light, before the market slows down prior to Christmas.

If you are planning to sell your property this spring, now is the time to undertake any needed renovations, complete home maintenance, and freshen up your property in preparation for the spring market.

There are a number of quick and easy ideas you can employ to get your home looking its best, and to make that all important “first impression” a powerful statement.

Take a walk down your street and the immediate surrounding ones, jotting down notes as you compare your property to others. Try to be as objective as you can to gain some ideas on what you could do to make your property stand out! A good friend or an experienced real estate Sales Consultant can help point out a range of minor changes to undertake to deliver that great first impression.

It could be as simple as painting a front gate/fence, or cutting back trees and fertilizing the lawn. Ensure your front gardens are in order so visitors form a favourable first impression before they get to your front door.

For a modest sum, you can really brighten up your gardens with in-season flowers and shrubs.

Next, analyse the inside of your home. Crowded rooms seem smaller than they are. Buyers don’t usually bring a measuring tape to see if their furniture fits, but instead will assess each room mentally and think about how their current furniture and life could transition into your home. If your furniture consumes the space, buyers will find it hard to picture having enough room to live there. So it would be a good idea to either sell or store excess furniture offsite.

You should also look at having carpets and drapes professionally cleaned to remove any odours, especially from pets or smokers. Get fresh air circulating around your home at all opportunities.

Look at purchasing modern accessories to liven up various parts of your home. For instance, new cushions and perhaps a throw and some accessories can do wonders to lift a tired living space.

Add new towels and accessories to freshen the bathroom, as well as some selective plants and flowers throughout your home.

It would be worthwhile, before putting your home on the market, to discuss your presentation ideas and home improvements with a local real estate sales expert. They are objective, know what buyers are looking for, and can give you excellent advice on what is worthwhile doing. This advice will keep you focused and not wasting money on changes that will not improve your property’s value.

When it comes to selling your home, it is certainly worth putting in the extra effort for maximum return.

For any real estate advice, contact one of our highly experienced Sales Consultants on 4628 7444.

Categories : Preparing your property for sale, Selling
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Properties with granny flats

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 24 July 2018 

Are you considering buying a property with a granny flat, or putting a granny flat onto an existing property you own? This is a great solution for a variety of purposes, such as accommodating an elderly parent, adult children, or running a home business. Or you may be looking to gain extra income from the granny flat.

Whatever the reason, the advantages of owning a property with a second dwelling on the same block are many. In Sydney alone, building approvals for granny flats have almost tripled on a yearly basis since 2010.

With residential space becoming rarer, and property owners looking for creative ways to maximise their income, granny flats are the obvious choice. Granny flats can either be attached or unattached to the main residence, but in all cases are smaller. They are often self-contained with bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and living area, and are usually under 60 square metres.

If you are buying a property that already has a granny flat, your first priority should be finding out if the dwelling is legal, with all appropriate compliance paperwork in place.

So, what are the benefits and risks of buying a property with a granny flat?

BENEFITS

Accommodating family members
There is no doubt that part of the reason behind the popularity of granny flats is for the accommodation of family members, such as parents or grown-up children.

Extra rental income
Granny flats can be handy income earners.

Spreading your risk
If you have an investment property with a main residence and granny flat, you have the added protection with any vacancy, of one dwelling being rented while seeking a tenant for the other. The likelihood of two vacancies at the same time is highly unlikely, minimising your risk.

More tax depreciation
If the granny flat is new and is being rented, then there is the opportunity to claim depreciation. Before making a decision with this in mind, you should discuss with a qualified financial professional.

Increased home value
Adding another dwelling on your property will increase the value of your home (as long as it is done to a professional standard).

RISKS

Increased property management costs
An extra dwelling brings added responsibilities and maintenance costs.

You may reduce your rental market or resale potential
When it comes renting your residence, the presence of another dwelling on the property may not be attractive to some tenants. And when selling, the presence of a granny flat can reduce the number of potential buyers.

For more information, or to discuss any of your real estate needs, please contact our team today on 4628 7444.

Categories : All Categories, Buying, Investment
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Pricing your home for sale

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 11 July 2018 

If you are looking to sell your home in the near future, one of the most crucial aspects of selling is determining a fair market value for your property.

SO, HOW DO YOU GO ABOUT WORKING OUT FAIR MARKET VALUE?
First you should ask a Sales Consultant at one of our offices, Harcourts The Property People Campbelltown or Harcourts Lifestyles Mount Annan for a no-obligation Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

The CMA will advise you of the current market value of your property by comparing your home with similar properties in your area that have recently sold. Using these as a guide, and considering the unique aspects of your home, you will gain a current market value.

Of course, similar homes are not always readily available, so sometimes you will need to add or subtract the differing features. For example, if there are few comparatives in the CMA, but a close comparative has a single garage, yet your home has a double, you can ask the Sales Consultant how much more value that adds to your home. If on the other hand, the other home has three bedrooms and yours has two bedrooms, then you may have to adjust the value down. There are also other factors that should be taken into consideration, such as location, to determine fair market value.

LIST WITH A PRICE OR AUCTION?
If you choose to auction, you will be letting the market determine the value of your property. If you list with a price, this will limit what a keen buyer may pay. Once a listing price has been established for a property, a ceiling has been placed on what a buyer expects to pay for it. Auction, on the other hand, offers a real opportunity to get more for the property.

You may be very pleasantly surprised by the price your home achieves on auction day, however it is sensible to have in mind a fair price you will be prepared to accept. This is where your CMA will be invaluable.

If you choose to market your property with a price, it is critical to set a fair market price for the following reasons:

  • The best buyers inspect early – the longer a property is on the market, the lesser sense of urgency there is amongst buyers.
  • Activity is at its highest when a property enters the market. Many buyers have automatic web alerts in place to notify them of new listings.
  • The right price will attract the right buyers for that property, rather than buyers in a higher price bracket inspecting the property and expecting more based on its price.
  • A property that is priced correctly attracts more realistic offers from buyers, resulting in a faster sale and often a better price.
  • All properties deteriorate with time on the market. This means that the longer an overpriced property is on the market, the less perceived market value it will have.
  • An overpriced home makes the competition look good – it helps other houses to sell.

DID YOU KNOW?
The average time it is taking to sell a home in your market indicates the market climate. It is very important you understand the market you are in, and the average time it is taking to sell a property. Ask your Sales Consultant about the current market in your location.

Should you have any questions, please speak to one of our Sales Consultants on 4628 7444.

Categories : Selling
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Choosing a Property Manager and agency

Posted by thepropertypeoplecampbelltown 
· 10 July 2018 

When it comes to choosing an agency and Property Manager to manage one of your most valuable assets, your investment property, it makes sense to take the time to choose the most diligent and knowledgeable team.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. You want to make sure that your chosen agency and Property Manager has the confidence and experience to market your property effectively, screen potential tenants, collect rent, handle arrears and overall manage your property efficiently.

Here are some things to consider:

IS YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER QUALIFIED?
In New South Wales, Property Managers need to have a current Certificate of Registration to work in this role. However, being qualified to manage a rental property doesn’t just end with formal qualifications – experience also plays an important part.

IS YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER EXPERIENCED?
Experienced Property Managers know their local market, and use this knowledge and available data to determine the best rental price for your property. They should also be experienced negotiators, who are able to negotiate the best price and lease terms with your tenant.

Experience is also imperative in effectively managing your property, solving any issues quickly, before they become larger problems.

Property Managers should also have a thorough understanding of residential tenancy legislation and keep up-to-date with changes.

IS YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER AND AGENCY FOCUSED ON YOU?
A successful relationship with your Property Manager and agency comes down to effective communication – so don’t be afraid to ask how they will communicate with you, and how often.

This is something that should be established at the beginning of the management of your property.

DOES YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER AND AGENCY HAVE A SOLID MARKETING STRATEGY?
When initially meeting with your Property Manager and agency, ask them to explain to you the marketing strategy they will use to effectively market your property in the current market.

A great company will work with you to ensure your property gets maximum exposure to the market.

HOW WILL YOUR PROPERTY MANAGER AND AGENCY MINIMISE RISK?
It’s a good idea to ask your Property Manager and agency what processes and procedures are in place to minimise the risk to your property.

A good company will have procedures around stringent tenant selection, zero tolerance of rent arrears, comprehensive property inspections on a regular basis, and the use of trusted and competent contractors to carry out repairs and maintenance.

Choosing a Property Manager and agency to manage your property is an important task. Treat it like you would a job interview. They need to be professional, trustworthy, reliable, and approachable, and you need to be confident they have the ability, knowledge and tools to achieve your real estate goals.

For more information on our property management service, call 4628 7444.

Categories : All Categories, Property Management
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