Did you know that we’re now officially in ‘moving season’? Typically, about two-thirds of all moves in Australia occur between October and March and with rising costs of living there’s expected to be even more people moving houses over this summer. Luckily, if you’re one of the many planning a move soon, moving ambassador Alana Lowes has shared her top tips to save money when doing so.
Alana Loves
1. Time is money
Removalists usually charge between $60 and $90 per half-hour so if there is something you can do to save the removalists’ time, it will also save you money. You can save hundreds by disassembling beds yourself, bundling loose items together to save multiple trips, bringing items to the front of the house or out to the truck, having things clearly labelled so removalists know exactly where everything should go, leaving a clear space for removalists to park, opting for a morning move when removalists are likely to have more energy, and even offering them a cool drink and turning the aircon on so they stay refreshed.
2. Slash bills
Take advantage of a move to implement some simple cost-cutting hacks such as lowering the temperature of your hot water for instant savings on your electricity or gas bill, installing ceiling fans which are more economical than air conditioning, and changing to energy efficient light bulbs (the NSW Government even has an initiative that can help with this).
3. Go secondhand
Sell or donate unwanted goods so nothing unnecessary is going in the removalist truck and you might even make some money to help with the move. You can also opt for secondhand items in your new home – it’s better for the environment and your hip pocket.
4. Be savvy
The removalist industry has moved with the times so it’s easy to get quotes and compare prices on platforms like Muval, which can also help you save hundreds or even thousands on small moves by finding spare space in bigger trucks or tapping into discounted last-minute space in freight travelling interstate.
Candace has personalised the apartment with pops of pink paint
With the Australian property market one of the world’s most expensive, home ownership is out of reach for many people. But being a renter doesn’t mean you can’t put a personal stamp on your home, as demonstrated by Melbourne hair colour educator Candice Johnson’s apartment.
Lounge room
Located in Brunswick, the bright, eclectic rental abode now has almost 10k Instagram followers who tune in for a daily dose of colour-packed inspiration and to see how Candice doesn’t let renting get in the way of her creativity.
A former t-shirt factory, the three-level apartment does have great bones – it features high ceilings, large open spaces, and a massive void (you can see through the middle from the top to the bottom floor). But bones aside, US born Candice has certainly put her own stamp on the rental that features an impressive array of colour and lots of pink.
Candice Johnson
“Pink has always been my go-to colour. I have always worn it and now I even have pink hair. The more pink I have around me, the happier I am,” says Candice Johnson who pairs vintage Facebook Marketplace finds with IKEA pieces and colour pops from Australian homewares brands Castle and Things and Sage & Clare. Candice’s home is also proof that you don’t have to own your home to truly make your mark on it, which is why we thought it would be interesting to hear her thoughts on how to make a rental your own.
Paint
“Paint is a cheap and easy way to make a space feel like home and it can completely change a space. I always ask my landlord before painting and I’ve never had one say no,” says Candice, whose apartment was quite sterile when she moved in. The all-white walls didn’t last long though – painting a few walls and beams pink instantly made the place feel much warmer. “Usually, I have to paint it back but some landlords will let you leave it. A lot of people don’t mind a feature wall or a small colour pop,” says Candice.
Candice has personalised the apartment with pops of pink paint
Art
“I change my prints constantly as I get bored,” says Candice who cites Society6 and little FY! as her favourite places to purchase affordable art. “The prints are usually priced at around $30-to-$50 and rather than just being mass printing places, they use independent artists that are less cookie cutter. They offer quick shipping too,” says Candice who puts her old prints into storage and pulls them out again when she’s after a change of scene.
As for hanging, Candice uses removable 3M hooks; often double the recommended amount just to be sure they won’t fall. “I use the velcro ones and I have used many over my rental history. I love how you don’t have to worry about nails,” says Candice.
Lounge room
Textiles
Candice uses a variety of colourful cushions, throws and rugs to imbue her home with personality. “I have well over 60 cushions and when I’m bored, I swap them all around. You can add a lot of fun that way,” says Candice.
Bedroom
House plants
“I counted over 60 house plants. It’s a lot of work as they’re all different and require different things but I do think they give character, personality, and make the place feel homely,” says Candice who often relies on plants if there’s a blank spot to fill in her home.
The dining room chairs were Facebook Marketplace finds and the lightning bolt mirror is from Melbourne’s Bride & Wolf.
Thrifty buys
“Some of my favourite things have come from Facebook Marketplace,” says Candice who found her orange dining room chairs on the platform. “They were from this elderly man, and they are pristine and gorgeous,” says Candice. Other finds include a vintage timber bar and Candice loves attending warehouse sales too. “Many fancy brands have annual sales and I’m always first in line.”
This vintage bar was found on Facebook Marketplace
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When renting, your options to personalise your space are limited. You don’t have to paint your walls or remodel the kitchen to have a space that reflects your unique style,…
When renting, your options to personalise your space are limited. You don’t have to paint your walls or remodel the kitchen to have a space that reflects your unique style, however. Genevieve Rosen-Biller has provided her expert tips to make your rental your own.
Swap out blinds and curtains
If you’re renting, it’s almost a given the window treatments will be a little dated. The good news is that these can usually be swapped out easily and inexpensively. Hanging some fresh curtains in a neutral shade will quickly update the room and give it a whole new look. Just hang onto the old ones so you can put them back up again when you move out. (And take your new ones with you!)
Photography: Tuiss Blinds Online
Invest in beautiful bedding
Quality bed linen is a near effortless way to elevate a bedroom. This room should feel like a sanctuary and choosing pure bedding that is comfortable, breathable and luxurious will ensure you always sleep well. The enticing texture and broad colour range makes linen sheets a popular choice. Style in single tones or mix and match for a simple yet chic look.
Introduce plants
Leafy pot plants liven up and bring energy to any space, while keeping you feeling connected to the natural world. A big towering plant like a fiddle leaf fig in a bare corner, or trailing vines like devil’s ivy cascading down a shelf are instant statement maker. As a bonus, they will purify the air.
Photography: Sally Goodall
Add artworks
Art is a sure-fire way to add colour and personality to a place, and an art collection is something you can build on over time and take wherever you go. Most landlords will grant permission to add some hooks to blank walls so you can hang your favourite pieces. If this isn’t an option, lean oversized artworks against the walls on the floor and line up smaller pieces along cabinets, mantels and bookshelves.
Photography: Chloe Lambert; Art: Anna Price
Let there be light
Lighting can make a huge difference to the ambience and style. If natural light is lacking, bring in some floor and table lamps placed carefully around. Light fixtures that are daggy or clash with your chosen décor can easily be replaced with something more modern. As with the window treatments, just remember to stash the old ones somewhere safe for when you leave.
Photography: Sally Goodall
Cover the floor
A non-permanent solution to ugly patterned tiles, stained carpet or weathered floorboards is to layer rugs over the top. The larger the better, in colours and textures that give the room a new look while covering up all manner of sins at the same time.
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IKEA’s Global Life at Home report delivered some interesting home ownership findings recently that challenge the traditional quarter-acre Australian dream. In fact, the report found that 70 per cent of Australians would rather live in a smaller residence in a great location than a larger home in a less ideal place.
The report, the fifth annual one for IKEA, is a study into global domestic living trends and as usual, its insights are super interesting. One sobering finding is that while 66 per cent of Australians still aspire to own a home, 28 per cent of us believe that home ownership won’t matter or even be desirable in the future. I suspect that soaring property prices mean many people can’t see home ownership in their sights but the interesting thing is that many Australians don’t feel that concerned about it. According to the report, two out of five people (41.7 per cent) are excited by the thought of living mortgage-free as our urban centres continue to change and improve.
Another key finding is that just over half (51 per cent) of Australians consider their home to go beyond their physical house – 46 per cent perceive their neighbourhood to be part of their home. This is especially true for renters who are a rising demographic in Australia. But there are other factors at play too – longer commute times mean that 29 per cent of people are watching television outside of the home, mostly on their mobiles.
“The way we live has become more complex as we’ve started bringing more of the outside world into our homes. This disruption means we’re now turning outside of our homes to meet our core emotional needs. At IKEA we believe that this gives people more opportunities to create the feeling of home, no matter where or how they live,” says IKEA Australian interior design leader Christine Gough.
For example, a quarter of Australians are cooking outside of their home multiple times a week (with a partner, family or friends) and 22 per cent shower outside of the home on a daily basis – either at the gym or work.
“At IKEA we understand what the heart of the home truly is and how to tap into those emotional needs to create that elusive feeling of home no matter the size, location or type of space you live in. Our goal is to make this feeling easier to achieve and to show all Australians how to redefine and take ownership of their space. Regardless of who you are living with, or if you’re owning or renting, your home should always be your sanctuary,” says Christine.
Co-ownership is becoming an increasingly popular trend. Owning a property with others can provide improved purchasing power. This can be particularly useful in capital cities where it can be difficult to break into the property market.
It can also balance out the expenses of owning an investment property including ongoing repairs, maintenance and fees. Additionally, co-ownership can provide improved depreciation deductions, allowing more items to be depreciated at a higher rate. This is where a BMT Tax Depreciation split report can assist.
How does a split report work?
A split report calculates depreciation deductions based on each owner’s percentage of ownership for each asset. This involves splitting the value of the assets based upon each owner’s interest in the assets before applying depreciation rules.
In a scenario where there is just one owner, legislation allows property investors to claim an immediate write-off for assets with an opening value of $300 or less. However, when an investment property is co-owned by two parties with a 50:50 ownership share, a split report allows the owners to each claim an immediate write-off for items where their interest in the asset is below $300. This means the owners can claim an instant write-off for items which are less than $600 in total value.
The same method can be used when applying low-value pooling. Where an owner’s interest in an asset is less than $1,000, these items will qualify to be placed in a low-value pool. This means they can be claimed at an increased rate of 18.75 per cent in the first year regardless of the number of days owned and 37.5 per cent from the second year onwards.
In a situation where ownership is split 50:50, by calculating an owner’s interest in each asset first, the owners will qualify to pool assets which cost less than $2,000 in total to the low-value pool.
Distributing the value of assets based upon the percentage of ownership first will increase the number of assets which investors are eligible to claim an immediate write-off or low-value pooling for. As a result, the rate at which depreciation deductions can be applied will be accelerated and the owners will receive increased deductions in the earlier years of ownership.
BMT’s split reports simplify this process and allow owners to get more from their investment. Each split report can also be provided in CSV format for easy importing into accounting software.
There is an option for owners who prefer a depreciation schedule without any split applied should this be required.
Bradley Beer (B. Con. Mgt, AAIQS, MRICS, AVAA) is the Chief Executive Officer of BMT Tax Depreciation. Click here for more.
With sky-high property prices the new norm, particularly in our major cities, home ownership is increasingly out of reach for many people. So, how does one make a rental feel like a home?
Command hooks Made for renters, as you don’t have to ask your landlord permission to use them, Command make a range of no-hole, picture hanging hooks and Velcro strips that won’t leave unsightly holes in the wall nor peel paint when you move on. Available in a variety of sizes and with the ability to hold up to 3.6kg, these plastic hooks and strips are ideal for hanging pictures in a rental – a gallery wall being the obvious choice for nesting types. There’s nothing that makes a house feel like a home more than a wall displaying your favourite photographs, prints and wall hangings.
Create a sentimental gallery wall with removable Command hooks. Image: Hunting for George
Indoor plants Currently a massive trend, indoor plants (coupled with gorgeous pots) really do wonders for any interior space. Plus, when you move you can always take them with you.
Indoor plants can transform a space. Image: Pop & Scott
Paint Some landlords will allow you to repaint provided you paint the walls back to the original colour before you depart. Some are even happy for their tenants to make permanent changes though will usually want to sign off on the colours beforehand. A bit of an undertaking, you could simply pick out a few areas to paint instead for that personal touch – the front door is the obvious pick.
A simple customisation solution – this pink door adds instant personality. Image: Dulux
Lighting It’s amazing the difference that lighting improvements can make. Swap out your outdated ceiling lights for a more stylish alternative – IKEA make a variety of affordable paper and drum shades. Alternatively, investing in a couple of statement table and floor lamps is always a good idea as you can take them with you when you leave. And for alfresco areas, LED string lights look rather magical.
Inexpensive pendant lights work wonders. Image: IKEA
Removable wallpaper & wall decals While the market is flooded with a variety of wall decals and removable wallpaper, varying in quality, there are some brands doing great things. No longer simply available in shiny finishes, there are plenty of realistic-looking textured ones to choose from now. A great alternative to paint, removable wall decals and wallpaper allow you to customise your rental without leaving a trace of it when you move out.
Rugs A large area rug is ideal for covering unsightly carpet or other undesirable floor coverings – ugly tiles and lino spring to mind. Plus, they’re great for demarcating zones within the home and you can transport them to your next home too.
Portable shelving A fabulous alternative to a built-in bookcase, portable shelves (ladder ones are currently on trend) are the perfect spot for you to display your favourite tomes and trinkets – both of which will make your rental feel homelier.
Knobs & hardware Sometimes a simple change of door handle or knob can make a huge difference to the overall look of a space – especially on kitchen cupboard fronts or wardrobe doors. Just remember to take the old ones with you when you are purchasing replacements to ensure they are compatible. You can simply change them back when you leave.
With 7 million Australians renting and a third of those people doing so for the flexibility it allows, this presents a serious interior design challenge. We spoke to The Block star Darren Palmer about the changing face of the Australian renter and he also revealed his top interior tips for renters.
Interiors by Darren Palmer
“With the property market becoming increasingly difficult to break into, renting is a more realistic option for a lot of people. Equally though, renting used to be something you did until you bought a house but now, it’s something that plenty of people are doing by choice,” says Darren who says many people choose to own their own property but rent in a more desirable area as it allows them flexibility to travel without the weight of a mortgage and also to be able to move on a whim.
Darren Palmer, Photo by Jacqui Turk for Interiors Addict
But what are the key concerns for renters when looking for a rental? “You want to find something that’s comfortable, homely and in a quiet area in a desirable location. You want to consider whether the rental has enough floor space and whether the layout works for you. For instance, will your furniture fit? You should also consider whether the electrical and data points are where you want them to be, look at the available light and the noise in the district,” says Darren.
Interiors by Darren Palmer
From hanging artwork, photographs and new curtains to changing light fixtures, installing rugs and painting, there are myriad options for the renter looking to upgrade their home’s interior.
“Painting the walls and ceiling is a nice, quick and easy solution but I wouldn’t recommend painting woodwork as that is a lot more labour intensive,” says Darren who also imparts a word of caution on this front. “Obviously you need to ask if you can paint your rental first and if you get approval you need to discuss the value you are adding to the property. You must make sure your landlord doesn’t start charging you rent based on the improvements. When the job is done they may think they can get a renter who will pay more so you must discuss all of this before proceeding,” says Darren. In fact, you may be able to negotiate a discount on your rent for a period of time, given the value you are adding.
Interiors by Darren Palmer
“Hanging artworks, changing light fittings and replacing shower heads, door handles and cabinet handles can all be easily reversed before you leave,” says Darren who has known some renters who have put floating floor boards down. “The vinyl plank, wood-look variety are easy to cut, install and lift up when you leave,” says Darren.
Another thing to consider is your rental’s internet connectivity and Darren has a solution for that too. “Optus has a great new home wireless broadband product that, unlike a fixed broadband connection, makes it easy for renters to hop online quickly,” says Darren of the small wireless device that you can unplug and take with you to the next place. “It’s ideal for renters as if you move frequently you don’t have to wait for days for the connection to take place – the internet will be up and running straight away,” says Darren.
For more information on Optus Home Wireless Broadband click here.
Interest rate movements, changing neighbourhoods and shifts in investments are all elements that will inform the trends for the coming year.
What’s in store for 2016? Here are 5 hot topics to watch this year.
1. Take interest in rates
It’s anyone’s guess what the Reserve Bank will do with interest rates this year. Many believe rates will remain on hold due to stable economic growth, a fairly valued dollar and inflation remaining well within the target range. Prudent investors however, will be keeping a close eye on global markets, especially China, which may impact the RBA’s current neutral stance. Should the interest rates change in either direction, though, it typically takes more than one consecutive movement to have any real impact on property spending or the economy more broadly. In short, there is unlikely to be any surprises here.
Image: Property Management Insider
The banks, on the other hand, are in an interesting position. Historically, they have followed the RBA’s lead, passing on hikes or cuts to variable rate mortgage owners. More recently, they have begun to act independently, sometimes raising variable rates of their own accord. Having now filled their coffers with healthy loan books driven by record low rates on offer last year, they now face some pressure by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority to stem further growth in lending. This, to me, has the highest probability of causing a rise in mortgage rates.
Let’s not forget that cash is still cheap at the moment, however. A standard variable home loan costs 5.6% compared to 17% in the early 1990s. If you are planning on holding your property for the long term, rises and falls in interest rates are par for the course and, as long as your budget allows for these changes, you should be well positioned to ride out the natural fluctuations over time.
2. Neighbourhood watch
I specialise in the inner city Sydney property market and now, more than ever, I’m seeing buyers on the hunt for good value close to the city. Although finding these ‘diamonds in the rough’ is still possible with perseverance and a good agent, it is now harder after such an extended period of high demand. I would say suburbs like Darlington and Waterloo have a lot of potential because the CBD’s natural harbour borders mean expansion will inevitably head towards the south.
High potential areas like these often start out with a number of properties in need of renovation, but since they are well located, they develop quickly. Buyers swoop in and over a few years start to update the properties and upgrade the area. The area gentrifies, cafes and new services move in and property values accelerate.
If you’re looking to buy in or near a city, ask yourself these questions: Where is the CBD expanding? Where is the closest train line? What suburbs have the most potential for renovation? Where are the suburbs with edgy culture forming? Which suburbs have had consistently strong rental yields with minimal price growth?
3. Investors for rent
Rent yields affect investor demand so when property prices go up 30-40% and rents stay stagnant, investors start to drop out of the market. A few years ago, a 4-5% yield was quite common but because of higher purchase prices over the past two years, 2-3% is the going rate, making it less attractive for investors. I expect there will be fewer investors until rents catch up, and that’s likely to take some time.
4. Monitor stock levels
Stock levels relative to demand have a big impact on property prices. Whether it’s a buyers’ or sellers’ market can change quickly and this is largely driven by sentiment. If sellers decide not to list, that will lead to a restriction in stock levels. More competition for properties often ignites further price growth, leading to a better market for sellers. Once more stock comes on the market it could go the other way. You’ll get the best buying opportunities when stock levels increase.
5. Run the numbers
The continued strength of the one-bedroom market has really surprised me over the past 10 years. According to census numbers, the demographic which contains singles and couples without children has grown significantly in the inner city area, which seems to underpin the demand for one bedroom properties.
People in this demographic have leant towards one-bedroom apartments as it allows them to live in the location of their preference while minimising spending on first time property purchases. The choice of lifestyle over backyard space means there is a level of consistent demand for proximity to amenities like cafes, theatres and shopping centres despite the smaller square meterage.
There’s a census later this year, with the results available in 2017. I’d be watching this demographic and their preference for dwelling location.
Personally, I don’t think the market is going to do anything spectacular this year. Because we had 20-30% growth in most markets in 2014/15, it has to pull back because that kind of growth is unsustainable. In many ways it’s a relief for buyers looking to enter the market, so I expect they’ll relish my prediction that 2016 will be a fairly steady one for growth.
Broken window in the winter time with frost on the glass
Most common household accidents can be prevented by using the right fittings, lighting and finishes to avoid slips, cuts and scalds. If you own a property, you can minimise potential harm to your tenants by identifying potential hazards before any damage is caused. A thorough building inspection can help you pick up on potential problem areas.
Don’t run the risk of incurring expensive insurance payouts down the track. Before you buy or renovate your building, review this checklist outlining the most common household hazards.
INSIDE
We all like to feel safe and secure in our own homes, tucked away from the perils of the big bad world outside. But despite our perceptions of homes as a nurturing place, the average home is filled with countless safety flaws and potential hazards. Luckily, with some minor adjustments and renovations, the interior of your home can be 100% safe. Potential hazards are not always immediately obvious to the untrained eye — you need to know where to look.
Glass:
Fit safety glass to entry and balcony doors, shower screens, and windows above stairs.
Doors:
Make sure toilet doors can be opened from outside.
Provide secure locks to entry doors and ground floor windows.
Provide good night lighting at entry points.
Install remote control garage entry for night safety.
In known funnel web spider areas, install screen doors.
Floors:
Secure loose carpet or vinyl edges and joints.
Avoid slippery surfaces (such as glazed or polished marble) for indoor flooring.
Apply non-slip coating to slippery surfaces.
Apply non-slip backing to mats.
Fire safety:
Install and test smoke alarms.
Check emergency exit signs and lights.
Check fire resistance of walls.
Remove objects obstructing fire escapes or emergency exits.
Fit fireproofing to flammable walls near gas cooktops.
Supply fire extinguisher.
Hazardous materials:
Identify any asbestos products.
Anticipate lead in paint films over 20 years old.
Anticipate toxic termite chemicals in the basement and subfloor.
Water:
Fit temperature-limiting devices to showers, baths and basins.
Steps:
Fit railings to all stairs, including any hard-to-see steps, ramps, driveways, or drops of more than 600mm.
Install lighting so all steps are clearly visible at night.
Close any gaps in stairs where infants might fall through.
Attach non-slip nosing or grooves to the edge of all steps.
OUTSIDE
The average person spends more time inside their home than outside — most of our eating, sleeping and entertainment happens indoors. So the external safety hazards around your home may be even less familiar or obvious to you than the internal ones. You know what they say: out of sight, out of mind. But there are dozens of problems that can arise if you neglect the safety of your outdoor areas, so don’t take your chances. Every property has its own unique safety and security issues – here are a few common ones.
Paving and decking:
Remove any slippery moss growth.
Avoid single steps.
Remove tree roots that are lifting paving to create a trip hazard.
Drainage:
Request to local council that any open drains, pits or culvert are fitted with childproof safeguards.
Upgrade onsite drainage to eliminate seepage onto paving.
Gardens:
Identify and remove any poisonous or spiky trees or plants.
Around children’s playground equipment, install sand or soft fall.
Remove hanging ropes from trees and buildings.
Ensure up-to-date compliance on BBQ storage cylinder.
Avoid planting and fences that obscure the footpath and compromise safe entry to the front door.
Parking:
Fit speed humps in longer flat driveways.
Install wheel stops in car spaces where vehicle can potentially damage structures or drive through railings.
Install bollards or crash barriers where appropriate.
Pool:
Install a childproof fence around the swimming pool.
Service gate latch and self-closing device.
Fence all water features or place stainless steel mesh just below surface of water to eliminate drowning hazard.
This checklist is fairly comprehensive, but you may come across other unique safety and security issues when buying or renovating your property.
— Jerry has over 40 years experience in the building, architectural and timber pest industry. As the founder of Tyrrells Property Inspection, he has managed building and pest inspections in over 90,000 buildings.
Having bought her three-bedroom brick home in Eimeo, Queensland as an investment property, Debbie Goodwin had been renting it out for some 15 years. So when the idea to sell came to mind, it was time to get the hard hat on and the tool belt out, because it was in serious need of a revamp!
Before: bathroom
After: bathroom
“It had good bones but it had to have a massive facelift on the interior. So we completely gutted the whole inside of the house and put in a brand new kitchen, bathroom, laundry, toilet, painted the whole interior, put in new blinds, fans and aircon, timber boards in all the living spaces and tiles in all the wet areas.”
Before: Living
After: living
After: living
Costing $50,000, it took approximately 10 months, with Debbie and her husband doing a lot of the reno themselves, after work and on the weekend. “The biggest challenge was definitely the time factor as we have three small boys and a business that operates seven days a week.”
Before: kitchen
After: kitchen
After: kitchen
With the new kitchen, living and bathroom making the biggest difference to the home, as a seasoned renovator, Debbie made some smart moves, knowing when to spend big and when to rein it in. “The freestanding bath was the best bargain product that will really add value to the home. As was repainting, especially in the living room, as it is now so fresh and inviting. Definitely worth the money.”
Before: main bedroom
After: main bedroom
As well as budgeting, another of Debbie key’s considerations is choosing the right people for the job, thinking it’s best to get the experts in first time round and save the time and money of re-do jobs “My advice for would-be renovators is to source good tradies. Be organised and always be prepared for unexpected costs to crop up.”
For art lovers, renting can seem like the kiss of death. Because when you can’t drill into walls, all those large artworks — especially the ones with heavy frames and glass — have to remain on the floor, or worse, in the garage. So how can you get your art fix when renting? Here’s seven easy ways.
Grab yourself a poster (40x50cm) and display it in this bargain wooden poster hanger(Editor’s note: since publishing this hanger has sold out. However, click here for another great option). Available from Typo in vintage or natural for $12,99, simply slide the poster between the wooden hangers and hang anywhere you like! It’s super light, so when it comes to hanging a temporary, damage-free wall hook will do the trick.
The self-adhesive extra-large Wall Stamps from Quercus & Co can be removed and reused over and over. Simply peel the backing paper away and stick to the wall. A bold, nostalgic decal for any room, they come in a variety of patterns, colours and sizes. Prices start from $45.
Featuring interchangeable letters, so you can personalise your lighting, the Compact Lightbox from Page Thirty Three is designed and handcrafted in Australia. Available in three finishes for $199.95, place it on your desk, sideboard or shelf.
Handmade from cotton, wool and yarn the one-of-a-kind wall hangings from Maypole Design are truly something special. With a Large Hanging retailing for $80 (super affordable considering they take eight hours to make) they are created by entrepreneurial teen Maisie Callcott, who started her business at 12 (learn about her here). Hang with a temporary wall hook.
A stylish and personal feature for your home, these custom self-adhesive Family Rules Wall Stickers make boring, fun! Coming in a broad range of colours, you can choose your own wording (and get a proof before printing). Easily removed from the backing paper, the fabric wall sticker can be moved over and over again. Available for $199.95 from The Wall Sticker Company.
The Arrow Sculpture ($65) is made from natural twigs, so no two pieces are the same. Available from Twiggargerie in a large range of colours, the arrow measures approximately 40cm in height and can be hung with a damage-free wall hook.
The Everything, All At Once Wall Hanging from Belinda Marshall features a digital print on Belgian cotton/linen fabric. Printed, cut and sewn in Melbourne, Australia, it costs $245 (excluding dowel or cord). And better yet is light enough to be held up by a temporary hook.
We hope you liked this list. Let us know what you’d add!
If you’re not reading this out of curiosity (fetching title, isn’t it), then you’re probably either looking at buying a property with a cloudy history, or have already bought one and you’re just finding out about it now. In any case, could purchasing a property that’s been home to a murder kill your property value too?
The short answer to this murder-mystery is yes, at least in the short-term.
This series of The Block is being filmed at the Hotel Saville where a crime scene once took place
If someone has taken a hit in your local area recently, your potential property value is likely to as well, according to research by finder.com.au. A 2014 study by the University of Technology, Sydney, revealed that properties within a 300 metre radius experienced a 3.9% price drop the year after a murder or sex offence. To give you a ballpark figure, this means a $504,000 property could see nearly $20,000 ($19,600 to be exact) shaved off it’s value following one of these tragic events.
This isn’t the only consideration, either – the second things get real on the streets of your neighbourhood a few key things also happen:
The local crime rate increases, which is never a good thing.
Your ‘walk-score’ may decrease as a result.
Some residents in the area may be spooked and look to sell their property – increasing competition if you just happen to be selling also.
These are all aspects local property owners – or potential owners – need to factor into their property options. You know that your property value is likely to take a hit. So what can you do to brace or adjust for this change?
The Block contestants
If you haven’t yet bought in the area, but still want to:
You’ve decided to stick with a place in the local area? No problem, just look at ways to improve the property to balance out any potential negatives. Some ideas include:
Renovate one of your ‘power rooms’, such as the kitchen, main bathroom or living area
Assess your landscaping options: could levelling out that scraggly back lawn provide a new summer entertaining area?
Turn the spare room into a studio to let: the rent earned could easily offset the sub-four percent you might lose from the recent loss of life.
The other bonus here is that, by law, real estate agents need to inform you if there’s been a death in your property – this has been the case since 2004. Rest assured you won’t walk into a death-trap unawares.
If you’ve been spooked:
The thought of resting your head where someone lost theirs may be a bit much, and that’s also understandable. A key consideration here is to look at the property regardless and determine exactly what it was that initially drew you to it. Detail what you love about the property and the neighbourhood – and just as importantly, the property prices in the area – and try to aim for a similar set of aesthetic compliments in a nearby location. A bit of flexibility in your house hunting journey can go a long way, and save you money (and headache) in the long run.
— Bessie is a property commentator at finder.com.au, one of Australia’s largest comparison websites. She’s passionate about real estate, renovating and helping Australians find better.
Headboards have never been so popular and Lauren Esplin is offering something truly unique with her new offering, NOD.
Lauren Esplin, founder of Nod
The new patented design headboards are ideal for ensemble beds and feature fresh colours and patterns, adding another dimension to traditional bed dressing. Founder Lauren said it was her husband, together with her desire for a fresh bedroom look, that ultimately inspired her new range of decorative modular headboards, all handmade and painted to order in Sydney’s Manly.
“I had a chunky upholstered headboard that sat on the floor behind our ensemble bed. I recently felt it no longer reflected my taste or suited our new bedroom linens,” she said. “I also found it collected a lot of dust. My husband suffers from asthma and was constantly sneezing and snoring despite frequent cleaning. To find a creative solution to our problem, I decided to combine furniture design with my passion for art.”
The headboards, which are made from lightweight eco-balsa tiles, stick directly to the wall. “Not only do the headboards stick directly to the wall without penetrating it, but their lightweight nature ensures they collect little to no dust,” she said. “Better yet, they can be easily removed and replaced as your linen and design preferences change.” Perfect for renters, they won’t damage walls if removed carefully and can be used again in another room or home.
Lauren brought together a number of Australian designers for this photoshoot, featuring the products and designs of Kip & Co, Olli Ella, Milkcart, Bramwell Designs, Major Minor, One Two Tree and Staple & Seed. “I wanted to connect with and showcase the work of some of my favourite local designers. There is a lot of talent in Australia, and with our weak dollar pushing up the price of exports, there really has been no better time to buy locally,” she said.
NOD Headboards are available in all sizes to suit Australian-standard ensembles. The range includes designs for kids and adults, with prices starting from $159.
“For first homebuyers, you need to consider your personal position. If you take a long-term view you will always build equity over time, riding out the peaks and troughs in the market. You can then draw on your equity to invest in more property so you are building wealth through real estate,” says Mark.
But if you are looking for a short-term cash cow, buying is definitely not the wisest move. “We have seen 20 to 30 per cent growth in the inner city and outer suburbs of Sydney over the past couple of years, and the likelihood of seeing the same growth again soon is slim,” says Mark.
It’s good news for many first homebuyers though. “If you are a first timer and you are looking at a long term investment, and by this I mean seven to ten years, you can buy at any time as you’ll ride out the fluctuations in the market,” says Mark.
One of Mark’s recently sold properties. Photo credit: Belle Property
The wise renter
For those who may be saving for a deposit or simply can’t afford to buy, there are smarter ways to rent. “My advice would be to go for a shared rental. Rent a two bedroom apartment so you can share the costs but still get decent living accommodation,” says Mark who has been surprised by the cost of one-bedroom apartments of late – they often approach that of two bedroom abodes. “I guess it suits the demographic. Single people or couples that are willing to share small spaces seem to have pushed up the price of one-bedders,” he says.
And it may sound odd, but winter is the best time to take out a lease – wait until then if you can. “There are fewer changeovers in winter with more stock on the market. You can generally negotiate a better deal and you won’t be competing with 20 or 30 others,” says Mark.
One of Mark’s recently sold properties. Photo credit: Belle Property
Advice for first-time buyers While it is far from glamorous, Mark is a big advocate of saving in order to get a foothold on the property ladder. “Save, save save! Don’t go out to restaurants and really set out a budget as to how you are going to spend your money. You’ve got to be wise when saving for a deposit and if this means taking your lunch to work, or catching a bus instead of a taxi, there are many small ways you can cost cuts. It’s what our parents did,” says Mark who sees credit cards as the enemy of savings. “I would advise against a credit card as if you don’t have a credit card you don’t have the money therefore you won’t spend it,” he says.
One of Mark’s recently sold properties. Photo credit: Belle Property
Buying & renting: a mixed approach If lifestyle is important to you, there is a definite argument to be made for buying an investment property in a suburb that you can afford, while renting in a more desirable area. “In my view, you really want to get in and start somewhere so you can build financial wealth and security. The first property is always the hardest but once you have secured that you can sit on it for five years before thinking about pulling out the equity to buy another,” says Mark of a trend that has been widespread over the past few years.
If you are going to look further afield when it comes to purchasing an investment property, just make sure to consider infrastructure. “If you can’t buy in the inner-city, try and buy along the train line as most people work in the city,” says Mark.
One of Mark’s recently sold properties. Photo credit: Belle Property
Real estate vs shares While investing in property isn’t the only way to make money, it offers relative certainty when compared to other investment types such as super or shares. “Real estate is tangible and that’s why people like it. Stocks and shares can be lucrative and worthwhile if you know how to buy and sell them and you follow the market daily but real estate is always a good long-term hold,” says Mark.
And with interest rates at historic lows, Mark sees it as a great time to get into property. “Take advantage of the rates if you can and lock them in for a three or four year period,” says Mark who favours a fixed interest rate in times such as now. “They provide a lot of certainty as you can do up a budget and know exactly what your outgoings will be for the next few years,” he says.
I’m completely in love with these jumbo vintage stamp posters from Quercus & Co. They’re so unique and make a great impact at a low price, with low commitment as they’re self adhesive (like regular stamps!) and removable (so perfect for renters too). I also love how Aussie they are, in a non-tacky way!
Printed onto fine fabric, the Wall Stamps have perforated edges for the authentic postage stamp effect.
They can be removed, repositioned and reused over and over. No need for wallpaper paste, nails or even 3M hooks! Ridiculously simple but with maximum impact.
The first (of many, we hope) collection features four nostalgic Australian wildlife designs from the 1930s. The engravings have been redrawn in crayon. All available in three different sizes from little ($45) through to jumbo ($245).
Frankly, who wouldn’t want a giant pink koala stamp on their wall?! Definitely a great idea for expat relatives overseas too.
The rise in popularity of granny flats can be attributed to two things: in part state-level legislative changes regarding secondary dwellings which aim to boost housing affordability in capital city areas and also because of their affordability and capacity to achieve high rental yields. Data from our depreciation schedules suggest that while the average granny flat will cost $121,000 to construct, the owners can usually achieve a 15% rental yield on this investment.
In order to maximise the benefit of this yield, it is important for granny flat owners to understand their depreciation entitlements. When a secondary dwelling is income-producing the owner is entitled to substantial deductions due to the wear and tear of the building structure and the plant and equipment assets contained, even if they are currently occupying the primary residence on the property.
Research conducted by BMT Tax Depreciation has shown that the average first year depreciation deduction for a granny flat is $5,288, accumulating to $23,713 in deductions over the first five years of ownership. Shared areas between the granny flat and owner-occupied property such as patios, pools and barbecues may also entitle the owner to additional depreciation deductions, claimed based on the tenant’s usage percentage.
As each state or territory provides their own legislative requirements, including the land and plot sizes of a secondary dwelling or granny flat, the table below provides a summary to assist investors and also outlines the average first year depreciation deductions which can be found for properties of these sizes.
*The first year deductions in this example are based on an average claim for a property of this size. ** Deductions based on a 60m2 plot size. ***In QLD, VIC and SA granny flats cannot be used as income producing secondary dwellings.
Investors who are evaluating the cash flow potential of constructing a granny flat or a secondary dwelling on their property for rental purposes should speak with a specialist quantity surveyor for advice. They will be able to provide an estimate of the depreciation deductions which will become available once the property is available for rent. It is also recommended to speak with an accountant for advice on any of the capital gains tax implications of investing in a granny flat as there are a number of factors investors should be aware of if they ever decide to sell their home or subdivide the property later down the track.
Those who already own and rent a granny flat or secondary dwelling should also obtain a tax depreciation schedule from a specialist quantity surveyor which outlines the depreciation deductions they will be able to claim when they visit their accountant to perform their annual income tax assessment.
To learn more about tax depreciation for any investment property, visit the BMT Tax Depreciation website. Alternatively, for obligation free advice, contact one of the expert staff at BMT Tax Depreciation on 1300 728 726.
– Bradley Beer is the managing director of BMT Tax Depreciation. A depreciation expert with over 16 years experience in property depreciation and the construction industry.
Rental decorating is hard! Especially when you’re as obsessed as I am with putting art up on your walls. Bare walls, with the addition of stains and a poor paint job, ah it makes me shudder!
So after living in my new house share for five months and spending a good $50 on 3M hooks (that would either cause my art to plummet to the ground or damage the already declining paint job!), my art is up and my room is done.
Space is at a premium and when I spend a decent amount of time working from home it’s important that I don’t feel claustrophobic. So I’ve attempted to make my bedroom as spacious as possible and zoned it: the sleeping area and the working area.
[contextly_sidebar id=”nXtxb4siwOE4foai1g7UgAgTohLr9hn5″]The main focal point of my sleeping area is my Sonno double bed base in wheat. I was keen to have a fabric headboard, and this ticks the boxes for both comfort and colour. I’m a neutral lover through and through! It also lets the accessories do the talking and means I can switch up the theme of my room with much more ease and affordability. I am particularly in love with my lamp from Freedom, my artwork of Copenhagen by Kortkartellet (brought back after my 6-month stint in Copenhagen last year) and my cushions from Art Club Concept.
Into the working area and I would be remiss not to mention my favourite piece straight away, the portrait of myself and my cat Kimby (yes to some that may be hugely embarrassingly but I can assure you I have no shame!). I am also a huge fan of my vintage desk, which I got a few years back at a reclaimed furniture store in Avalon.
Next to my desk is my storage unit, which I have tried to keep as clutter free as possible. My artwork from Brainspiration, my vase from Art Club Concept and my O light from Typo are all particular favourites!
While my room is done for now, I know I’ll be switching it up very soon. But after all that’s the good thing about rental decorating, nothing’s permanent!
— Disclosure: The Sonno bed, Brainspiration artwork and Art Club Concept homewares were gifted to me, however positive coverage was not guaranteed.
Rental kitchens are not known for their idyllic makeup. From dim lighting to a lack of storage options, they can be a source of everyday dissatisfaction. However, with a little kitchen-whispering, you can coax more usability from your space. Here are 10 quick and easy tips, ranging from storage to aesthetic, to set you on your way.
This is a sleek and simple solution to dingy cabinets. It keeps them neat and chic without tempting the wrath of your landlord. Select from a range of wallpapers and adhesive coverings. This injects pops of colour and personality into your space – understated or brazen according to your taste.
Go shopping for new hardware for your cabinet doors. It’s amazing what a difference this can make to the overall look of your kitchen. And there are plenty of cheerful-on-the-wallet options available.
So you can’t stand the sight of those bland pine panels or (worse) that wood veneer? Get handy with your screwdriver and remove them for a fresh open-cubby look. Don’t throw them away! You’ll need to attach them again before you leave but in the meantime clean-lined kitchen shelving is uber-chic. Make-good the edging/cover the holes with wallpaper or adhesive covers.
Starved of storage?
4. Wire shelf inserts
Inserts are a great way for increasing the space available. Hook them under your shelves, over your doors or stand them over your plates to maximise the useable space.
5. Magnets
Consider a magnetic knife board to free up your counter space.
Install a series of hooks on your ceiling or walls to utilise this hanging space. This is a visually impacting way to display your pots and pans for a rustic aesthetic.
Too dim?
8. Increase the wattage
A wattage of 80-to-100w is recommended for the kitchen.
Add designated task lights above your counters. A couple of swing-arm lamps add vintage accents and increase your functionality ten-fold. You don’t need to hardwire these in necessarily – just ensure some care is taken to secure the cords out of the way.
10. Install LED ribbon lighting under your cabinetry
If you’re a little handy with a drill, LED downlights are to-die-for. I love mine. But I didn’t install them. I’m smart enough to realise that DIY with electricals is not for me. If you’re the same, outsource the install or opt instead for stick-on battery-operated lights – you can buy them in most supermarkets.
La-voila! There you have it. Not too taxing on the grey matter I hope. Happy renting!
— Kay Harrison is a feature, blog and copywriter. She has work published in ACP magazines, ABC fiction, Overland, Seizure, trade publications and online forums and her creative writing has won several awards. Kay wrote this piece for Zanui.
