Property has long been considered a popular path to wealth creation for Australians. It has the potential to generate capital growth (an increase in the value of your asset) as well as rental income. There are also tax advantages associated with negative gearing. However, when buying an investment property, it is wise to remember that you are making a business decision and it’s worth taking the time to plan.
- Do your homework
You are not buying from the heart, but from the head, so it is important to assess your current financial position. What are your cash reserves and/or what equity do you have in hour present home? Look at your long term objectives and factor in potential changes to your current situation (eg the birth of a child or the loss of one income).
- Understand negative vs positive gearing
Positively geared properties rental income is higher than your loan repayments and outgoings. Tax is likely to be payable on the net income subject to qualifying capital allowance deductions. Negatively geared properties rental income is less than your loan repayments and outgoings. The loss can be offset against other income earned reducing your taxable income and therefore your tax payable.
- Decide how to fund your deposit
You’ll probably need a property investment loan. The deposit can come from your savings or alternatively from the equity in your home. It can also be possible to invest in property via a self managed superannuation fund using your super savings as a deposit*.
- Find out how much you can borrow
This is an essential step in order to be realistic in your expectations and focus your property hunting time on properties you can afford.
- Choose the right type of finance
There are generally two types of loans being ‘principal and interest’ and ‘interest only’. Interest only loans defer the obligation to repay the principal. The most suitable loan type for you will be dependent upon your individual circumstances so it is best to talk to us.
- Calculate your costs
Remember to factor in up-front costs such as stamp duty, loan application fees and legal costs. Building and pest inspections are also a must to avoid expensive headaches down the track. All properties incur ongoing expenses (eg rates, insurance etc) you will also need to estimate these. You’ll use your rental income to cover most or all of these costs but you may need to have some spare cash set aside until you start receiving rent (most agents pay the owner at the end of each month so you won’t receive rental income straight away).
- Find the right property
This is obviously the area in which you will spend the most time. It doesn’t have to be a home you would live in. Think about the features that are universally appealing and of course remember the old adage location, location, location!
- Find a good property manager
It could be a good idea to look for personal recommendations from tenants and landlords you may know.
- Cover yourself with suitable insurance
Some insurance companies now combine building cover with specialist landlord insurance. You should also consider life, total and permanent disability, and income protection insurance to ensure your family doesn’t suffer financial hardship repaying loans if the main income earner is unable to work.
