Rewarding Property Decisions with Jarrod McCabe of Wakelin Property Advisory

Strong market demand has seen the perennial debate over underquoting rear its head again.

Buyers say vendor reserve prices are not conveyed transparently, while agents argue purchasers don’t disclose their top price limits. Understanding how to navigate these competing elements will ensure property investors spot pitfalls and maximise opportunities.

Winter is certainly upon us in Melbourne, which typically sees many people’s property investment activity head into hibernation. However, savvy investors looking to transact property must remain attentive, especially this winter, which has seen an unusually large amount of market activity through the typically quieter period.

Understanding the characteristics and idiosyncrasies of a particular suburb, and how that plays into broader market expectations and demand is critical when investing in property. Each suburb is governed by differing buyer expectations and guiding rules, meaning a dwelling type that may be attractive within inner Melbourne, may be much less so in the middle suburban ring.

COVID-19 is likely to be an ongoing threat until vaccination numbers increase, which means snap lockdowns remain an unwelcome potential in the months to come. Property investment decisions must remain agile and pragmatic to ensure you navigate through potential pitfalls, while capitalising on the opportunities times of uncertainty often present.

A functional and aesthetically pleasing floorplan is a key attribute of a high growth property asset. It’s vital to understand the most common types of floor plan on the market and how they rate within the buying market more broadly; so you can judge their inherent pros and cons, as well as future investment potential.

The iconic and unique characteristics heritage homes can offer, often result in strong demand, and in turn can make for a fantastic long term investment. However, there are often costly and time consuming obligations buyers must agree to when purchasing, so it pays to know the pros and cons before buying.

There’s been unease amongst a number of property investors in relation to Victoria’s new rental law changes. However, the new rules also present property investors with an opportunity - one which can lead to higher rental yields and long term capital growth.

Despite popular opinion, Spring isn’t always the optimum time to sell. Every property, vendor and buyer is unique, so when timing sales campaigns, it’s vital calendar considerations, personal circumstances and selling option methods are assessed accordingly.

For many, buying property at auction is the biggest investment decision they will make in their lives. It’s important to realise that every auction is distinct; featuring a different property, agent, and vendor. Auctions are fast paced and emotionally charged events, where fortunes can be won and lost in a moment - Jarrod McCabe takes you through the dynamics at play to help keep you calm and decisive as pressure builds.

The Melbourne property market is experiencing a surge in demand, awakening for the enforced hibernation of 2020. Further fuelling the market activity is the host of property purchasing incentives on offer, as the Federal and State Governments work to bolster the economic recovery. Unfortunately incentives can often lead property buyers astray, if they chase the allure of ‘free money’ in expense of foundational purchasing and investment objectives. We explain how to adequately navigate, judge and decide on the merit of particular incentives when applied to your financial and property investment goals - both from a homeowner and investor perspective.