Recent content by Seeka

Thanks for the update regarding Qld law in relation to trees affecting neighbours. Thought I knew the law, but didn't know of these changes. If a request comes from the neighbour, then I better understand my position. I also appreciate the benefits of keeping on good terms with the...

Do I need to have trees trimmed and under what circumstances? If the tree isn't presenting any potential danger to the tenant, I don't feel this needs any action, but would like to hear other's opinions. This is the second request from the tenants, but on this occasion it was also...

Insured with CHU. When I bought into the duplex this was the insurance and it was managed through an insurance broker. I am satisfied with the policy and it costs about $750 per year each duplex, so total of about $1500 including the brokers fees.

Interesting. Thanks.

Just went to a one day session with Rick Otton so can see how vendor financing could add value to a sale. Also agree that trying to reduce income in the year of sale makes sense for reducing capital gains. If the selling costs are reduced then the new property doesn't need to have such a big...

Buy and hold is my preference, but figure it sometimes may make sense to sell, and buy into a better returning property. Example Scenario: Sell IP (house $400K) to buy another IP (house or unit) of similar value but with a better yield, and better capital growth, could the costs of buying...

Very helpful Tyrael and AXXO. Just the kind of information that will make a meaningful difference in this situation. Getting an idea of how it is treated by both Centrelink and ATO is important. I'll pass on this information, after I've checked it out courtesy of the specific links...

Thanks Terry. And yes, it is unfortunate that some people can hit this stage of their lives in such a weak position.

Thought there might be a way that it wouldn't be regarded as income, such as if they could rent as boarders. I too think that a return to the work force would help in so many ways but a lack of confidence and health concerns are getting in the way of this option, and have done for some time...

Have an acquaintance who's just hit 65, started getting the pension and plans to rent out two rooms in PPOR. It will be a cash arrangement. Due to some poor investment advice and action in the past, and a period of ill health, they now have a $150K+ Line of Credit (Property value $400K...

Firstly, welcome. In answer to your question, I would assume, yes, council approval is needed. However, different councils seem to have different regulations so if I were you I would start by calling the council with your general plan for separate rentals and see what they say. You wouldn't...

A sample property in the Somersoft PIA user guide shows that property expenses come in at around 28% of the rent. I would concur with that. I find that costs generally come in at around 25% to 30% of the rent, with it being in excess of that in years where a major expense is incurred...

Due to insurance premium increases I have changed my combined building/landlord insurance policies over to Honan. Have found them to offer competitive pricing and inclusions that I am happy with. Haven't had a claim though so don't know how they'll perform when it comes to the crunch...

Just interested, and for those of us who are less experienced, it may give some idea of the extent of problems that can occur. Similarly the ratios below would be enlightening too. Sometimes uncertainty, or even fearfulness about potential tenant problems can lead to inaction on the part of...

I would be in favour of adding 'Tenant Years' when posting answers in other threads where it would be relevant. eg I am interested in how often claims are made on landlord insurance. An answer of "Ten claims in '59 tenant years'", compared with "zero claims in '8 tenant years'" puts both...