Recent content by ps0104

I had this exact dilemma not so long ago. Definitely go for the 900mm cooktop - no question there. If you have a family or do a lot of cooking, the extra space is priceless. 900mm ovens aren't anything special. They take longer to heat up, use more power and generally have more uneven heat...

Thanks Peter - that's really helpful. Is the timeframe for the construction process any faster than that which applies to an off the plan scenario?

Hi all (especially the brokers!) My new build house (in Sth East QLD) has reached practical completion stage and I have sent all required paperwork to Homeside/NAB for them to release the final payment. I understand that they will be sending a valuer out to make sure that there is a house...

Hi all I have a near new custom vanity in my bathroom which has unfortunately been water damaged and I think it will need to be replaced. It is a basic design (single cupboard with 2 doors and 3 drawers) and is around 1100mm wide and 350mm deep. It has a basic laminate finish. All other...

Hi all I'm currently having a new house built which is nearing completion. It is on the Northside of Brisbane. I've been having issues with the builder in terms of delays and poor quality workmanship and they are now rushing big time to get it finished before the contract date. I'm worried...

I'm not suggesting buying IN the CBD or inner north but simply saying buy something with good links to these areas because that's where the employment growth is going to be. To me, good links means 30min max by reliable and regular public transport (which in Brisbane, generally means trains, so...

Most employment growth in Brisbane over the next 10 years is going to be concentrated on the Brisbane CBD and inner suburbs - in particular the inner northern suburbs and around the airport, which is also on the northside. That to me says get as close to the CBD as you can for your budget and...

Try House of Carpets at Morayfield. Couldn't be happier with my experience with them and very reasonable prices.

I think Fitzgibbon has potential in the medium term, for exactly the reason you state - it is currently sitting at a lower price point than surrounding suburbs but has recently benefited from substantial improvements in local amenities. What will be interesting is how the older stock which is...

How would I go about pressing Homeside for an interest rate reduction? Is it just a matter of calling them and threatening to walk to another lender? I've got $320k of debt with Homeside at 79% LVR. Current rate is 4.95%. Should I be happy with what I've got or should I be pressing them...

I reckon Fitzgibbon has a bit of a way to go yet. Key difference I see between Fitzgibbon and Bracken Ridge is the fact that a good proportion of Fitzgibbon is within walking distance to Carseldine train station. Add in the fact that all of the new development is bringing a new lease on life to...

You'll do well in Scarborough in that price range. In my opinion it's the best suburb on the Redcliffe Peninsula and the world has only just started to realise that. If you get in soon you will do very well in terms of capital growth over the next few years in my opinion. That whole area will...

I've got granite capping in the kitchen in the place I rent. The kitchen is about 10 yrs old and the finish is still looking very good. It actually took me 2-3 months after moving in to realise that it was granite capping and not real granite benchtops. Was very surprised when I realised...

Have been watching Fitzgibbon for a while. Vacant lots here, while small, have been moving very quickly. As I understand it, all lots within an easy walk to the train line have now been sold (or very close to it). Prices for like-for-like vacant lots have increased by $30-40k in the last 12...

Be careful in the older parts of Bracken Ridge - there are several pockets which have lots of housing commission and the general feel of those areas has a definite 'low socio-economic' vibe compared to some other parts of the suburb. A 350-380k house would likely be in these areas. May make it...