Guest Post by realestateVIEW.com.au

Housing affordability has been a hot topic of discussion in 2011.  Even though median price growth is slowing nationally, purchasing a home is still difficult for many and with the prospect of further interest rate rises the great Australian dream may seem impossible for many.  Or is it?

According to the real estate institutes across Australia and properyDATA.com.au, there are still many affordable places to buy; you just need to know where to look.  We interviewed a range of experts from the real estate institutes to compile a list of some of the most affordable places to buy.

Adelaide & Surrounding Areas

According to Petra Sprekos, General Manager of propertyDATA.com.au, the most affordable suburbs to buy are to the north of Adelaide.  Mrs. Sprekos advised “Based on the average median house price for Q4 2010 Elizabeth Downs, Elizabeth North, Elizabeth Park and Davoren Park, represent the most affordable places to buy with medians at or below $230,000.”

So why are these suburbs the most affordable places to buy?  Mrs. Sprekos advised “These suburbs are typically known to be populated by those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.  However we are seeing more families and even investors buying in these because prices remain affordable these suburbs have strong growth potential for the years ahead.”

Brisbane & Surrounding Areas

According to Pamela Bennett, chairman of the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ), the majority of Brisbane’s most affordable areas are clustered within 18 to 20 kilometres south west of the city. Ms Bennett states “Based on median house price data from Q4 2010; Inala, Acacia Ridge, Darra, and Durack are still very affordable places to buy with median house prices all below $375,000.

“As these suburbs are still relatively close to the city it does beg the question of why this cluster of suburbs is still reasonably affordable.” Ms Bennett explains “These areas provide older weatherboard and post-war homes as well as a number of housing commission properties ripe for renovation.  Many of these areas have undergone significant urban renewal over the past few years which augur well for their growth and development into the future.”

Darwin & Surrounding Areas

According to Quentin Kilian, CEO of the Real Institute of Northern Territory (REINT), the most affordable suburbs are those in the outer south eastern parts of Darwin – around the Palmerston area.  Mr Kilian said “Median house price data from Q4 2010 shows Moulden & Gray are some of the most affordable places to buy with the median house price well below $450,000.  Driver also is still affordable with a median price of $461,250.  Eastern suburbs including Kamara and Malak are also still affordable with the median house price still below the $500,000 mark.”

Mr Kilian elaborated on the affordability of these suburbs by saying “These particular suburbs are still well below the average median house price for the greater Darwin area (of $559,000) and as they are all still within 25 kilometres of the CBD, they provide good access to amenities at a more affordable price.”

Hobart & Surrounding Areas

According to Martin Harris, CEO of the Real Estate Institute of Tasmania (REIT), some of the most affordable places to buy are areas which were traditionally known as public housing areas. Mr. Harris states “Median house prices for Q4 2010 indicate that Bridgewater, Rokeby and Ravenswood are some of the most affordable places to buy a house with median house prices all below $204,000.”

Mr. Harris went on to say “These areas tend to be lower socio-economic suburbs however they are mostly located in areas which are close to major centres and services thus have good potential growth for the future.”

Melbourne & Surrounding Areas

According to Enzo Raimondo, CEO of the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV), many of the most affordable places to buy a house in 2011 are located in the outer west of Melbourne.  Mr. Raimondo said “Based on the REIV’s median price data for 2010 Melton South, Melton, Wyndham Vale, Kurunjang and Frankston are still very affordable places to buy a house with the median house price for all of these suburbs below $300,000.”

So why is this the case? Mr. Raimondo stated “As has always been the case, Melbourne buyers will pay more to live close to the city thus for those finding it difficult to get onto the property ladder buying on the city’s outskirts can be a good alternative places to consider.”

Perth & Surrounding Areas

According to Alan Bourke, President of the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia (REIWA), the more affordable places to buy are those which; do not lie in within 10kms of the CBD or are not situated on the coast or close to the river.  Mr. Bourke said “Based on Q4 2010 median house price data Medina, Brookdale, Parmelia, Armadale, Camillo, Leda, Coolongup, Maddington, Orelia and Gosnells are still very affordable suburbs with the median house prices all below $320,000.”

But what can these suburbs offer those looking to buy in an affordable area? Mr Bourke advised “Local infrastructure in some outer suburbs is reasonable and access to the modern train line has proven to be a more convenient and efficient method of transportation in comparison to a car. Urban revitalization in recent years has also seen more of these once tired and overlooked areas come back to life creating friendly neighbourhoods for home buyers to consider.”

Sydney & Surrounding Suburbs

According to Tim McKibbin, CEO of the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales (REINSW), some of the most affordable areas are located in and around Blacktown.  Mr. McKibbin advised “On the basis of REINSW median house price data for Q4 2010, Lethbridge Park, Tregear, Whalan, Blackett, North St Marys, Hebersham and Macquarie Fields as are all still affordable suburbs with the median house price for all of these areas below $285,000.”

Mr. McKibbin commented that “Sydney buyers will pay more to live close to the city, particularly within 10 kilometres of the CBD therefore suburbs on the outskirts on the city – particularly those surrounding the Blacktown area are proving to be affordable suburbs.”

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Visitors can search the portal for checking prices of already sold real estate properties. This information provided on this website can be very valuable for the consumers who are interested in buying or selling any property. Users logging on to this website can use the information for determining value of the real estate property they own. It also helps customers in determining the real value of any property they are intending to buy. Buyers of properties can check on the website the current market price of the property they are planning to buy and can determine whether the price quoted by the seller is fair enough. Similarly, sellers of properties can check the prices of properties already sold to determine the price at which they can sell their property for getting reasonable gains. The site can also be used by real estate agents who can obtain the data from the website to strike better deals with their prospective clients.

The website contains several interactive features that make the search of prices of sold property easier for the users. Visitors can have access to data of prices of hundreds of sold properties. The website is very fast and helps in retrieving the data within few minutes.

By realestateVIEW.com.au

Feeling apprehensive about entering the property market this year? Research Survey Reveals Home Buyer Confidence is Down 2012eveals that you are not alone.  According to realestateVIEW.com.au’s recent ‘Appetite to Buy’ Survey, Australians are keeping a concerned eye on a range of issues from interest rate fluctuation, to housing affordability and the cost of living.  These issues appear to be wearing down buyer confidence, despite assurances from the experts that 2012 is a great year to buy.

The research has revealed that just 32.7% of the 1,475 consumers who took part in the survey are looking to buy this year.  This represents an 8.9% decrease from 2011, further indicating a resounding reluctance to enter the property market.  The key issues impacting on the decision to buy include interest rates (48.5%), housing affordability (47.6%) and increasing household expenses (41.6%).

February rate rise hurting big four
As a consequence of the February rate rise, more than half of consumers are now either considering smaller lenders or refinancing to a smaller lender (57.5%).  Interestingly, buyer confidence was not improved by the November and December interest rate cuts, as indicated by 65.2% of respondents who said the rate cuts did not encourage them to buy.

Additionally, 41.3% of respondents also believe further interest rate rises will keep buyers out of the market this year. More than a fifth (22.6%) of participants claimed they had plans to buy this year until last month’s shock decision by the big four to raise interest rates.

The ‘Great Australian Dream’
Interestingly, despite rising preferences for apartment living, owning a house still remains the ‘Great Australian Dream’, with 79% of respondents looking to buy a house over a townhouse, apartment or unit. This has however been slowly decreasing when compared with previous years (82% in 2011 and 85% in 2010).

In 2012, three bedroom homes remain the clear front-runner for buyers (44%), with 4% of buyers looking to buy in the $1 million price bracket, a significant increase over last year (1.2% in 2011). This suggests that buyers are keen to capitalize on the cooling of prices at the top end of the market.

What’s in store for 2012?
The survey confirmed that for many Australians saving up for their dream property is a priority, with 20.5% of respondents having already saved a deposit greater than 40%.  Yet for many, making a purchase means compromising on other areas, with 32.5% cutting back on living costs to boost savings.

Whilst for many of the states a likely growth resurgence is predicted, it appears that for 2012, most buyers are adopting a ‘wait and see’ approach.  This appears unlikely to change any time soon, especially if the big four banks raise their mortgage rates this month.

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Structural and Building Issues
It is imperative to check for any building and structural issues inside the property since the cost of repairs can be very pricey to fix. This will protect you from any unexpected repair costs once you invest in the property. Without a proper building inspection it is difficult for a homeowner to anticipate emergency repairs in the future. Homeowners sometimes need to use a cash advance in order to help meet the cost of unexpected repairs.

• Are there any peeling paint, uneven tiles, cracks or mould stains along walls and ceilings, and signs of water damage?
• Are there brick walls inside the property? Salt damp and mould can mess up the floor of the property.
• Check if the ceilings are level. A previous roof leak is the result in of drooping in the ceiling, and this might result in troubles in the future.
• Are there any sloping or bouncy floors? In some older homes you may need to replace stumps.
• See if the property is well insulated for the cold and hot season. Your air-con as well as heating expenses are affected by how well the house is insulated.
• See if the doors and windows are opening and shutting properly. Due to the movement in the base of the property, a few houses their very own window and door casings changed and blocked from closing fully.

Look for The Laundry, Kitchen area, Bathrooms and Toilet
It is crucial these functional areas are in excellent working condition and also have sufficient space for the reason that getting these areas extend or repaired is extremely expensive. Take into account;

• Find out if the pipes are properly looked after and find out if there are leaks underneath the sink.
• Check out if the laundry offers sufficient space. Is there sufficient room for a front loader /top loader / dryer?
• Are the tiles, exhaust fan, doors and tub / shower in good shape?
• Does water still flows even though the cistern is filled up when the toilet is flushed?
• You need to check the water power, taps, as well as the time that it takes for warm water to come out.

Front and Backyard
The front and back yard hold several essential considerations including maintenance costs, storage area, space for expansion or subdivision and automobile parking. You should look at the following issues whenever at an open for inspection;

• What’s the state of the front and backyard? Any fixing such as gates, fencing, pavement or a shed required? Is there a clothesline already installed?
• Is the backyard high maintenance i.e. large trees, bushes and grass lawns trimmed? Did you locate a swimming pool? Some buyers avoid swimming pools as maintenance of swimming pools can be in the thousands
• Is there enough land to extend the house or property?
• Is there space where you could park your car such as a designated garage area, drive way or street parking? You need to know the readily available spaces? Do you need to obtain a permit?
These are some factors that buyers need to consider when searching for a house, unit or an apartment. There are various types of properties on the market today and while some may look attractive is best to do the homework on each property that you are planning to inspect. Having said that a thorough research of the suburb is also critical whether you are looking at apartments for sale or homes for sale.

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When you have decided to sell your house, talk to several real estate agents and Realtors. Find out what commission each charges and how knowledgeable each are about the current housing market in your community. Agents who are familiar with your community can better help you sell your house in a timely manner.

During large-scale renovations, astute homeowners will locate the master bedroom suite on the first floor of the house. This is contrary to home-building tradition but it is increasingly popular in the modern real estate market. Ground-level master suites are easier for older homeowners to use and can add significantly to the value of a house.

When selling your house, the kitchen is one of the most important rooms that potential buyers will peruse. Make sure the counters are empty and the cabinets are clean, but not full. If they see full cabinets this tells them that there is not enough room for all their things.

Buyers are looking for houses to purchase all year long, so list your house just as soon as you are ready to sell. If you list it in the fall or winter when there are fewer houses on the market, then you do not have to compete against everybody else that lists their house in the spring.

You should find out if other homes in your area are selling before you decide to put your house on the market. Your real estate agent should be able to tell you if it is a good time to sell your home and how much you should ask for it. This is a great way to be sure that you are selling your home quickly.

If you own a website where you advertise your real estate, releasing a press release is a great way to increase your visibility. When you release a press release and share news with your consumers, you increase your search engine visibility and promote your services in the long run.

If you have already moved out of your home that you are trying to sell, consider staging it so it is more inviting to the potential buyer that is looking at it. Renting furniture or using some that is your own is the best way to give them the feeling of how the house will look once it is furnished.

You have just read some great tips on selling real estate. During hard times, this job can be tough. You have to continually keep your goals in mind and know that you can pull through and succeed. Re-read this article whenever you start to feel a little stuck and you need some advice.

This website is completely focused on holiday properties throughout Australia. It helps consumers to find a good place to stay. Although there are numerous online portals for this purpose, most of them do not have the features of Holiday estate.

Owners of holiday properties can list the details of their property on this website. The process of uploading data on this site is very convenient and easy to follow. The website is very fast and it ensures that the owners do not have to spend lot of time for listing their properties. The listing of properties on this website is visible to a vast range of holiday lovers who can select a property of their choice on the website. The site is a great help to all those who are looking for holiday properties. The search features of this website can help them to get the information about different holiday properties depending upon their requirements. This site can also be used by agents for listing holiday properties of their clients.

Owners of holiday properties should register on this site at the beginning. The registration needs to be done only once. Also, it is free of cost. The featured listing option can give maximum coverage to properties of the subscribers. These listings appear at the top of the page in the category.

Check out the website of Holiday Estate at
http://www.holidayestate.com.au/

This portal is very easy to use and provides the convenience of getting all the required information in a hassle free manner. This website is very fast. So, sellers do not have to spend much of their valuable time for listing their properties. The portal has several interactive features to allow the buyers to find the best commercial property as per their requirements. Most of the listings on this portal are exclusive to the site. These listings do not feature on any other site.

Those who wish to list their commercial property on this website need to register at the site. It is a life time registration and is free of cost. Sellers of commercial properties can take advantage of this website to make their property visible to maximum number of buyers. Consumers can opt for featured listing option for their properties. Featured listings are positioned at the top of the page in the category. These listings appear randomly on the front page of this website and get maximum visibility.

Check out the website of Commercial Estate at http://www.commercialestate.com.au/

In the past, buyers who were looking for property would go straight to newspapers to find a home for sale.  These days, there are a number of sources that provide copious amounts of information, all in the one spot.  With more information available, you can now find your ideal property and get the knowledge to make an informed decision.

The following are various sources buyers can use to find the right property:

1. The Internet
The internet has become the number one source that people use to find information.  There are property portals available, which agents use to advertise on, to assist consumers with their search for real estate.  Property portals are an easy way to look for homes for sale and rent and they provide buyers with an extensive list of the latest real estate listings in your suburb of interest.

Getting knowledge to make a more informed decision before purchasing a property is now easier, with median house prices, past auction results and suburb demographics now available on property data websites.

2. Mobile Websites & Smartphone Apps
With the growing number of mobile and Smartphone users, it was only a matter of time before the real estate agents and portals enhanced their sites for mobiles and developed apps for Smartphone’s.  Property seekers can use their mobile phones to search for properties for sale, check the location, inspection times and auction times on the move.

3. Newspapers
As mentioned above, many real estate agents choose to advertise in newspapers.  Although this has declined over the years due to the convenience of online searching, newspapers are still a useful source to identify potential homes for sale and rental properties.

4. Promotional Magazines
Larger real estate agencies may produce weekly or monthly magazines to provide buyers a comprehensive list of real estate they have for sale.

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The portal of Local Estate is very quick and convenient to use. Sellers can use this portal to upload listings of real estate properties directly on the website. The other websites used for the purpose are slow and users have to spend lot of time for uploading data about their properties. However, on Local Estate, it just takes few minutes to complete the same process. The steps for uploading the information is simple and the agents or home owners just need to follow the step by step guide to show off their real estate properties to the potential buyers.
Although there are several other websites listing real estate properties, the fact remains that very few of them combine the essential and convenient resources that are available on Local Estate. This portal is designed in such a way that it attracts maximum number of sellers and consumers making it a win-win situation for both the parties.

The Link to the website is www.localestate.com.au