Recent content by annmak

Dear Y-man I bought an apartment in the Boyd, Docklands years ago off plan being attracted by its view and "prospect". Unfortunately I found that the area is so windy that it is totally not suitable for retirement. I couldn't imagine how an old lady fights with the strong wind struggling...

So kind of you all giving me so many valuable suggestions. There appears so many "gems" in the inner city areas. It does broaden my scope of choice!

That's interesting. Thank you very much for the info. I have not thought of Footscray before and don't even know that there are properties near the river.

what is the street you have in mind?

Well, I am about three years to retirement. Budget will be around 600k to 800k. So maybe Hawthorn is out of my reach. I have no preference for any particular area. Just want to have a quiet and healthy retirement life. I have not thought of Footscray before. Maribynong River Trail sounds...

I am considering buying an apartment/unit in Melbourne for future retirement use. I want to find a location where: 1. I can do away with my car and rely on public transport. 2. Near shopping centres/markets where I can do my daily shopping conveniently. 3. Near gardens or parks where I...

I asked the PM to see if she can ask the favor from the tenant to replace the hose but the PM is reluctant to do so as she is worried that the tenant may come up with further damage etc. Well, there is no choice as I am not physically available there to replace the hose. But your replies...

I am overseas. My agent told me today that the shower hose was broken (see photo) and need replacement. They quote 150. I just wonder if it is really so expensive to replace a hose? Any comments? What is the reasonable price to replace such a hose in Melbourne?

I prefer to have the Agent to pay all the bills for me. If saves me time and automatically keeps records in the monthly statement.

Thank you for all the practical suggestions. I feel more solid now. Sez, you are in Chelsea but my IP is in Wheelers Hill!

I received an email from my property agent: "The gas plumber has attended the property and replaced gas valve, fan controller, fan motor, but the heater keeps breaking down. The unit is built in 1991, and is very old. We have obtained a quote of $1800 inc Gst to have it replaced." I asked...

The magic question failed My insurance premium increased by 25% this year. I rang up Westpac insurance and discussed with them for over half an hour but in vain. Even when I suggested to reduce the insurance amount back to that of last year which is 15k less, they only offer me a $5 reduction...

Fire service levy Just find that the premium includes $125 for fire service levy. How essential is this? Is it worth skipping this?

I have building insurance with westpac for my IP for 14 years and have never claimed anything. The house is over 50 years old, only two bed. Last year the total premium is 772.87 and this year it has been increased to 982!!! Just want to ask is it normal to have such a great increase...

Who will believe that it falled down by itself except the PM! But as I am overseas, I am powerless and after rounds of arguing with the PM, I yield!