Latest Property News from Ted Hanson

> Next week brings changes to the First Home Owners Boost, which will be halved for the next few months before being phased out altogether. As a part of the May Budget, the Federal Government announced an extension to the First Home Owners Boost until 31 December 2009 with changes to the payment from 1 October 2009. This means that the Boost will be reduced by half at the end of September - next Wednesday. Eligible first home buyers who sign a contract to purchase an existing home between 1 October 2009 and 31 December 2009 (inclusive) will receive an extra $3500, taking the total lump sum payment (including the First Home Owner Grant) to $10,500. Eligible first home buyers who sign a contract to purchase or construct a new home in that period will receive an extra $7,000, taking the total lump sum payment (including the First Home Owner Grant) to $14,000. According to a ministerial release, more than 137,000 Australians had taken up the First Home Owners Boost by the end of July. NSW led the way, with close to 50,000 applicants taking advantage of the offer in that time. > The total number of housing starts dropped by 3.7 per cent in the June quarter for 2009, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures released this week. Detached house starts grew by 4.2 per cent to 22,808 in the June 2009 quarter however, the number of apartment or multi-unit starts dropped by 21.5 per cent to 7,603. The biggest increase in the number of commencements was recorded in the Northern Territory, where total housing starts leapt by 64.9 per cent. The Australian Capital Territory recorded an increase of 17.6 per cent, Tasmania (8.9 per cent) and New South Wales (2.1 per cent). Housing starts fell by 3.7 per cent in Victoria, 10.4 per cent in Queensland, 9.6 per cent in South Australia and 6.3 per cent in Western Australia. > For many Australians, purchasing a home is one of the most important decisions they will make, and one of the most important factors when purchasing a property is location. A new report from St George Bank has put the words `location, location, location' back in the spotlight. Based on a nationwide analysis by RP Data to determine the best value suburbs, the St George Bank National Property Hotspots Report has identified 24 suburbs around Australia likely to provide the strongest value for home buyers. The suburbs were selected for their proximity to central business districts, transport and retail outlets, as well as renovation potential and strong pricing. "Many opportunities still exist to buy well located, affordable properties in capital cities and regional areas," the report says, adding that while other opportunities exist, it highlights the best. The cheapest suburb in the country is Redan, in the regional city of Ballarat, Victoria, where the current median house price is $190,000. Ashburton, a suburb 12 kilometres southeast of Melbourne, was the most expensive with a median price of $706,750. Some of the other standout suburbs were Granville (Sydney), Chadstone (Melbourne), Keperra (Brisbane), Bassendean (Perth), and Thebarton (Adelaide). The report also found that in 2008/09 the median dwelling value across Australia's capital cities rose by 4.5 per cent. Darwin recorded the biggest rise in value, up 7 per cent in the year to June, while Adelaide recorded the smallest at 0.6 per cent. Dwelling value in Melbourne rose 6.5 per cent, while rival city Sydney grew 5.9 per cent. Canberra was up 3.1 per cent in the year, while Perth and Brisbane grew 1.9 and 1.4 per cent respectively. The report found that the population grew by 406,000 in 2008, and this was likely to place upward pressure on housing prices over the medium to long term. "With fewer dwellings being built, the supply shortage continues to be exacerbated and is anticipated to increase over the next few years as the population grows further and the required amount of dwelling commencements needed to fill this shortage goes unfulfilled" report authors wrote. > The Government stimulus package continues to underpin confidence and construction activity according to the results of Master Builders Australia's National Survey of Building and Construction for the September quarter 2009. Master Builders Australia Chief Economist, Peter Jones, said this week that the Government's policy strategy to leverage the building and construction industry to help cushion the economy from the effects of the global financial crisis is having the desired effect of stimulating the economy and protecting jobs. "Government stimulus measures, particularly the schools program and social housing initiatives, are driving a recovery in sentiment after the plunge in builder confidence experienced in late 2008 and first part of 2009", Jones said. "The stimulus package, combined with a backlog of work - albeit reducing - and low interest rates are preventing a collapse in construction activity despite twin challenges of reduced credit availability and weaker economic conditions." This is evidenced by survey results revealing that builders' own business conditions continued to recover in the September quarter 2009, though remaining well short of levels achieved prior to the onset of the global financial crisis. "Despite a pick up in operating conditions and greater optimism about the outlook, the industry still faces major stumbling blocks and the likelihood of a volatile period ahead", Jones noted. Master Builders predicts a fall in construction output of between 10 and 15 per cent over the course of 2009/10 and 2010/11, with employment likely to fall by 7 to 10 per cent over the same period. The building and construction industry lost nearly 10,000 jobs in the 3 months to August, to be down by nearly 30,000 or 3 per cent from a peak level of 995,000 achieved last year. "The Government's stimulus measures will help maintain up to 50,000 jobs in non-residential building that would otherwise have been lost, ensuring the trough in total construction employment is closer to 925,000 than the predicted 875,000 without the stimulus programmes", Jones said. "The residential building sector outlook remains positive on balance, with key forward indicators providing some encouragement, but it will take some time for activity to turn around and for a full-on recovery to become evident, particularly as the first home owners boost scheme phases out. "Although residential builders are becoming more optimistic about where activity is headed, the challenge will be to overcome sluggish investor activity and the prospect of higher interest rates", he concluded. > The old bait and switch There were some red faces recently when a German city accidentally advertised porn on its website among the services on offer for residents. The administrative error arose when an employee compiling the list thought that brothel owners might type "porn" into the search box to find out about the city's sex tax, Reuters reports. A spokesman for the city authorities said it had been a mistake and there was never any intention of the city providing pornography as a service. The word has since been removed from the list. > I'm being shadowed by a mooncandle Candles can set the mood in any space around the house, but they often require replacement and you need to keep an eye on them to avoid stray wax or flames. Mooncandles are an innovative world first - allowing you to enjoy real wax candles without messy wax or fire-hazards, as they're lit up from the inside by LED lights. The colour-changing flameless candles operate by remote control so you can position them in hard to reach areas, and have 4 and 8 hour timers, so you don't have to snuff them when you head out or off to bed.

epro Newsletter from Danny O'Neill

In This Issue... PREGNANCY......WEEK 9..... First Home Boost scales down Zero emissions homes within reach Houses up, apartments down Space invaders An inconvenient use I'm bathin' on starshine, whoa oh oh Contact Us Danny O'Neill Phone: 61 2 42295344 Fax: 61 2 42297202 98 Market Street Wollongong NSW 2500 email us Who Said.......... Last Week...... "Can miles truly separate you from friends... If you want to be with someone you love, aren't you already there?" Was Said by - Richard Bach - Born in 1936 in Oak Park, Ill., son of Roland Robert and Ruth Helen (Shaw) Bach, the American Richard Bach is the great-great-great-great (how many more should I add?:) grand son of JS Bach the great composer we all know. Congratulations to: Sarah N, Simon H, Sue B, Jason C, Alex C and Tina O. This Week: Who was it that said; "The man who can keep a secret may be wise, but he is not half as wise as the man with no secrets to keep" ? ? ? ? A JOKE TO BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY!!!!! The Lone Ranger and Tonto went camping in the desert. After they got their tent all set up, both men fell sound asleep. Some hours later, Tonto wakes the Lone Ranger and says, "Kemosabe, look towards sky, what you see?" The Lone Ranger replies, "I see millions of stars." "What that tell you?" asked Tonto. The Lone Ranger ponders for a minute then says, "Astronomically speaking, it tells me there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, it tells me that Saturn is in Leo. Time wise, it appears to be approximately a quarter past three in the morning. Theologically, the Lord is all-powerful and we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, it seems we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What's it tell you, Tonto?" "You dumber than buffalo chip. Someone stole the tent." TIMES RUNNING OUT... 5 Sunlea St, Dapto - $379,000 With polished floors throughout, this 3 bedroom home is in an idea neighbourhood to start a family. All bedrooms have built-in-wardrobes and the master has a walk-in-robe and ensuite. The main bath has a huge corner bath where you can soak the days worries away, the formal lounge and formal dining area, which is air conditioned, flow through to the modern Tassie Oak kitchen thats complete with dishwasher and plenty of cupboard space. You can even catch the morning warmth from the sunroom that overlooks the completely level huge backyard. Ideally located, this home will offer one young family the perfect start. FAMILY FAVORITE 31 Cedar St, Albion Park Rail - $385,000 This home would have to be one of the best properties in the area for the 1st home buyer or young family offering everything on the 'I want' list and with nothing to do but enjoy. The fomal lounge and formal dining area have polished floors and RC air conditioning, The open plan kitchen lets you entertain your guests in the family room before you relax in the massive covered outdoor pergola. Theres 3 good sized bedrooms, a study, 2 bathrooms and a huge double garage. There's even enough space to park another 3 cars. With the fresh interior and all the modern furnishings, there isn't much else you want for your family. > Inspection Times Saturday 11am - 1140am $379,000 5 Sunlea St, Dapto For a list of other open for inspection properties contact us or visit us online. Mail to a friend... Know someone who likes to keep up to date with the latest in property news? Click here, enter their email address and they will receive a copy of this issue and be given the opportunity to subscribe to future issues.

Friday 25 September 2009 Do Unto Others...... To have a friend, you must be a friend, starting with yourself. The greatest hunger a person has is to be needed. Help create that feeling in others. The greatest virtue is kindness. You can't love everyone, but you can be kind to everyone. Don't try to impress others. Let them have the fun of impressing you. Be enthusiastic. Nothing of consequence was ever achieved without enthusiasm. Be positive. Positive people attract others, while negative people repel. You have greater impact on others by the way you listen than by the way you talk. Gossip cheapens the one who gossips more than the one gossiped about. Call a person by his or her name and use it often in conversation. Communicate cheerfulness. Differences are bound to occur and can be resolved if conflict is managed in a polite manner. If you are given to making fun of someone, be sure it is of yourself. Be genuinely interested in others. Get them to talk about themselves. A smile doesn't cost anything and pays big dividends. It makes you and everyone else feel better. Be the first to say: "Hello! Good to see you." Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The golden rule is where it all begins and ends. By James Fisher Jr 1. PREGNANCY......WEEK 9..... THANK YOU SOOOO MUCH FOR ALL THE WARM WISHES AND CONGATULATIONS WE'VE RECEIVED. Bec is still suffering with morning sickness and I can say that I seriously feel for her, she's such a trooper. On the positive side though, the doctor says that morning sickness is a sure sign that everything is working the way it should. Apparently (so I've come to learn) morning sickness is caused by the overload of estrogen in the body. Normally, estrogen cells attach themselves to protien cells but with the excess of estrogen, the protien cells have to play catch up, hence the sick feeling. Usually, well hopefully, by the 12th week the sick feeling subsides. Fingers crossed!!! When you do the numbers, we really only have 219 days until the due date and we're already in the 3rd month of pregnancy..... sooo much to do, sooo much to organise and when you look at it, there isn't really all that much time to do it in. How do people do it??? - I'm so open to advice if anyones got any. This week, our "little one" which was an embryo is now called a fetus, which actually means "little one." It's said that Bec's uterus has expanded in size to accommodate its new resident, which now measures approximately 1.6 centimetres. We're also told that there are so many changes that will take place this week -- the embryonic tail will disappear, and all organs, muscles, and nerves are beginning to function. The hands now bend at the wrist, and the feet begin to lose their webbed appearance, eyelids even begin to cover the eyes. This is just soooo facinating, understanding how a session of serious hot passion (ha ha) can grow to such an amazing gift. Bec and I are keeping a photo diary from week to week watching her belly grow, right now, there isn't much point posting a photo because Bec hasn't started showing. When she does though, I'll post a pic from time to time to show the difference as the due date gets closer. PS: The pictue shown is what our little bundle of joy should look like this week. Top 2. First Home Boost scales down Just a reminder that next week the First Home Owners Boost will be reduced by half, so if you're thinking of taking advantage of the full grant, now is a very good time to do so! As announced in the Federal Budget, the First Home Owners Boost will be scaled down from October 1, then cease entirely on 31 December 2009. Read More... Just a reminder that next week the First Home Owners Boost will be reduced by half, so if you're thinking of taking advantage of the full grant, now is a very good time to do so! As announced in the Federal Budget, the First Home Owners Boost will be scaled down from October 1, then cease entirely on 31 December 2009. Eligible first home buyers who sign a contract to purchase an existing home between 1 October 2009 and 31 December 2009 (inclusive) will receive an extra $3500, taking the total lump sum payment (including the First Home Owner Grant) to $10,500. Eligible first home buyers who sign a contract to purchase or construct a new home in that period will receive an extra $7,000, taking the total lump sum payment (including the First Home Owner Grant) to $14,000. Top 3. Zero emissions homes within reach In the wake of one of the nation's warmest and driest winters on record, environment groups this week called for new building standards to reduce emissions and water use and to help Australia's homes and families cope with future temperature and price shocks. The call coincided with the release of a new report showing that with the right government support and with efforts to fast-track stronger environmental building standards, Australian homes and neighbourhoods could be emissions-free and water efficient by 2020, according to a new report. Read More... In the wake of one of the nation's warmest and driest winters on record, environment groups this week called for new building standards to reduce emissions and water use and to help Australia's homes and families cope with future temperature and price shocks. The call coincided with the release of a new report showing that with the right government support and with efforts to fast-track stronger environmental building standards, Australian homes and neighbourhoods could be emissions-free and water efficient by 2020, according to a new report. The report, Towards climate safe homes: The case for zero emissions and water saving homes and neighbourhoods, was released this week by the Australian Conservation Foundation, Environment Victoria, the Alternative Technology Association, Friends of the Earth and the Moreland Energy Foundation. Environment Victoria's Campaigns Director Mark Wakeham said that at the moment, our inefficient homes are part of the climate change problem. "However, the report shows that emissions from the average home can be reduced by more than 75 per cent with energy efficient design and appliances, while the rest of the home's energy needs can be supplied by renewable energy", Mr Wakeham said. "This means our houses can be effectively emissions free and part of the climate change solution." The report also advocates a 40 per cent water savings target to be applied to new homes to reduce dependence on increasingly unreliable water supplies. ACF's Monica Richter said the Federal Government had a golden opportunity to set Australia on the path to zero emission homes by 2020. "The government has made a good start with its national strategy on energy efficiency, but more needs to be done," she said. "We would like to see 7 or 8-star standards introduced in the next 12 months and a stronger commitment to retrofitting existing houses to help low income and vulnerable Australians adapt to the impacts of climate change." ATA's Ian Porter said climate proofing Australia's homes was not an optional extra but essential. "Australians recognise that we need to change our homes and many have already shown that sustainability can be achieved with environmental and financial benefits," he said. "It is time Governments recognised this and implemented systems to support households to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy and water bills." The release of the report signals the beginning of a new national campaign calling on governments Australia wide to strengthen building standards for new homes, provide green makeovers for our existing houses and set zero emissions and water efficiency standards for new homes and neighbourhoods over the next decade. Top 4. Houses up, apartments down The number of apartments being built continues to drop, bringing total housing starts down by 3.7 per cent in the June quarter for 2009, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures released this week. Detached house starts grew by 4.2 per cent to 22,808 in the June 2009 quarter. The number of private new houses commenced rose by 3.7 per cent to 22,347 units, down 16.5 per cent from the corresponding quarter a year ago. Read More... The number of apartments being built continues to drop, bringing total housing starts down by 3.7 per cent in the June quarter for 2009, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures released this week. Detached house starts grew by 4.2 per cent to 22,808 in the June 2009 quarter. The number of private new houses commenced rose by 3.7 per cent to 22,347 units, down 16.5 per cent from the corresponding quarter a year ago. Multi-unit starts, however, dropped by 21.5 per cent to 7,603. This figure includes new private sector `other residential building', which fell 20.1 per cent, to 6,459. This follows a revised fall of 14.2 per cent, to 8,080 in the March quarter. The total number of public sector dwellings commenced rose 21.1 per cent, to 1,063. Falls in Victoria and South Australia were more than offset by gains in the remaining states and territories. Total housing starts increased by 2.1 per cent in New South Wales, 8.9 per cent in Tasmania, 17.6 per cent in the Australian Capital Territory and 64.9 per cent in the Northern Territory. The number of housing starts in the June 2009 quarter fell by 3.7 per cent in Victoria, 10.4 per cent in Queensland, 9.6 per cent in South Australia, and 6.3 per cent in Western Australia. Top 5. Space invaders Think having the relatives and their kids to stay for the week is a space invasion? Try sharing your 3-bedroom home with thirty other people, whom you'd probably never met before standing next to them in the bathroom queue. The most recent in a series of raids by Brisbane City Council targeting residential overcrowding found 37 people living in a single house, posing serious health and fire safety issues. Read More... Think having the relatives and their kids to stay for the week is a space invasion? Try sharing your 3-bedroom home with thirty other people, whom you'd probably never met before standing next to them in the bathroom queue. The most recent in a series of raids by Brisbane City Council targeting residential overcrowding found 37 people living in a single house, posing serious health and fire safety issues. Since July last year, Brisbane City Council has inspected more than 1000 homes and units, Brisbane Times reports, with around 180 notices issued for non-compliance with sanitation, planning and fire regulations. A further 179 amenity issues have been identified in just the past month. In many of the cases, the residents involved were foreign students studying in Australia. Apart from the health and safety risks and `spoiling the fun' for people visiting the country, individual fines for landlords can range up to $100,000 for non-compliance with standards. Top 6. An inconvenient use There have been times when blackouts have left communities in Australia without power for up to twelve or even 24 hours, much to our inconvenience. A day somehow doesn't seem so bad, however, compared with a small Angolan town, where a power outage has knocked out the lights and services for two months. Reuters reported recently that despite the country's multi-billion dollar investments in new hydro-power projects, authorities were still trying to fix the problem. Top 7. I'm bathin' on starshine, whoa oh oh Ever looked up on a clear night to see a sky full of stars and wished you could dive into the dark pool of twinkling lights? Well now you can...in a way. The Nirvana Bathtub is an innovative spa bath with 360 LED light spots on its surface, creating the feeling of drifting through the heavens. Winning a Red Dot 2009 design award, the tub is ecologically sensitive, using 60 per cent less water than most tubs its size due to a shallow high-grade translucent acrylic layer form. It also features a touch control panel with electric tap, automatic water fill/stop function and a wave-activated hand shower.

Latest Property News from Ted Hanson

Friday 18 September 2009 Do Unto Others............... To have a friend, you must be a friend, starting with yourself. The greatest hunger a person has is to be needed. Help create that feeling in others. The greatest virtue is kindness. You can't love everyone, but you can be kind to everyone. Don't try to impress others. Let them have the fun of impressing you. Be enthusiastic. Nothing of consequence was ever achieved without enthusiasm. Be positive. Positive people attract others, while negative people repel. You have greater impact on others by the way you listen than by the way you talk. Gossip cheapens the one who gossips more than the one gossiped about. Call a person by his or her name and use it often in conversation. Communicate cheerfulness. Differences are bound to occur and can be resolved if conflict is managed in a polite manner. If you are given to making fun of someone, be sure it is of yourself. Be genuinely interested in others. Get them to talk about themselves. A smile doesn't cost anything and pays big dividends. It makes you and everyone else feel better. Be the first to say: "Hello! Good to see you." Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. The golden rule is where it all begins and ends. By James Fisher Jr 1. Housing finance dips in July Housing finance dipped in July this year, but is still higher than it was twelve months ago, according to figures released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The number of first home buyer dwellings financed dropped by 6.7 per cent to a still-high 17,170 (compared to 9,879 in July 2008). Read More... Housing finance dipped in July this year, but is still higher than it was twelve months ago, according to figures released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). The number of first home buyer dwellings financed dropped by 6.7 per cent to a still-high 17,170 (compared to 9,879 in July 2008). As a percentage of total owner-occupied loans, the number of first homebuyer commitments fell to 25.7 per cent in July from 27.1 per cent in June. In trend terms, all categories increased. The number of loans for the construction of dwellings was a clear leader, growing 2.6 per cent in July. The total value of dwelling commitments rose 0.9 per cent. However, in seasonally adjusted terms, all major categories fell slightly. Investment housing fixed loans experienced the biggest fall in value, at -4.0 per cent, while owner-occupied housing fell by 1.7 per cent. In the number of dwelling commitments, the biggest drop was felt in `purchase of established dwellings' (-2.3 per cent), then `owner occupied housing' (-2.0 per cent), `construction of dwellings' (-0.7 per cent) and `purchase of new dwellings' (-0.5 per cent). The total value of commitments fell by 2.3 per cent. Mortgage Choice senior corporate affairs manager, Kristy Sheppard said that the drop in housing finance demand is probably just a blip. "Winter is usually a slower season while Spring usually sees a large increase in market activity", she said. "When compared to this time last year's figures this result is still a positive one." According to Ms Sheppard, Mortgage Choice loan approvals continue to rise and July 2009 was no exception. "After year-on-year increases in the number of our loan approvals of 18 per cent in May and 30 per cent in June, July experienced an increase of 19 per cent", she said. "And over the past few weeks our franchisees have experienced a noticeable spike in enquiries from potential first home buyers who are very keen to enter the market before the full First Home Owner Boost expires at the end of this month", she added. Top 2. Consumer sentiment continues to boom Consumer sentiment in Australia has risen by over a third since May this year, according to the latest measurements released this week by the Westpac Bank. The Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index surged by 5.2 per cent in September 2009, from 113.4 in August to 119.3 in September. Read More... Consumer sentiment in Australia has risen by over a third since May this year, according to the latest measurements released this week by the Westpac Bank. The Westpac-Melbourne Institute Consumer Sentiment Index surged by 5.2 per cent in September 2009, from 113.4 in August to 119.3 in September. This is the highest level of the Index since July 2007. The Index has increased by 34.4 per cent over the last 4 months - the largest 4-month increase in the 35-year history of the Index. Westpac's Chief Economist, Bill Evans, said that the survey shows clearly that the standout story for consumers is relief that the economy has avoided recession and that expected job losses have not materialised. "For consumers, the good news on the economy is `drowning out' any warnings on rate rises", Mr Evans said. The dominant news topic that respondents recalled in the month was domestic "economic conditions". This topic was recalled by 69.2 per cent of respondents compared with only 32.6 per cent of respondents who recalled "interest rates". Assessments were overwhelmingly positive, with approximately 70 per cent of respondents assessing current economic conditions as favourable compared with approximately 35 per cent in June. "Given the extensive media coverage of likely rate hikes it is surprising that respondents are relatively evenly divided on their assessments of interest rate news", Mr Evans said. "That resilience to the rate outlook is exemplified by the attitude of those folks holding a mortgage - their Confidence actually rose by 4.4 per cent. "This result highlights an important point that will be significant when assessing the impact of initial rate hikes on sentiment." Mr Evans noted that in the last long drawn out rate hike cycle confidence was steady until variable mortgage rates hit 7 per cent, from which point it fell by an average of around 9 per cent whenever rates were increased. "With variable mortgage rates currently 5.8 per cent their extremely low level is providing a basic support to sentiment", he said. "That is unlikely to change until mortgage rates get up to around 6-6.5 per cent at which point rate changes will start to deter households." Top 3. Rubbish-free for a year, for life Could you get through a day without throwing something in the rubbish bin? What about a week? Is it possible to live for one year without producing garbage that winds up in a landfill? A young American couple has taken on the challenge to reduce their rubbish output to almost zero for a whole year. With two cats, a dog and full-time jobs to manage, they say they are "not going to pretend it's going to be easy"! Read More... Could you get through a day without throwing something in the rubbish bin? What about a week? Is it possible to live for one year without producing garbage that winds up in a landfill? A young American couple has taken on the challenge to reduce their rubbish output to almost zero for a whole year. With two cats, a dog and full-time jobs to manage, they say they are "not going to pretend it's going to be easy"! One of the problems they foresee is disposing of cat faeces, which is unsafe to do naturally. This and other hazardous or otherwise undisposable rubbish will be left out for the kerbside pickup after being measured for the end-of-year tally. They have set up a website for the so-called Green Garbage Project, complete with blog to record their successes and difficulties and to encourage others to offer suggestions and alternative means of disposal. Specific steps that they are taking include: Not buying stuff that isn't recyclable Starting a compost bin Growing their own vegetables Making products like soap, cheese, butter, granola, and bread Taking their business to butchers, dairies, farmer's markets and natural food stores Saving any recyclable materials that the curbside collection won't take and taking them to a recycling depot Using reusable bags when shopping and bringing reusable containers to restaurants for leftovers Replacing light bulbs with energy-efficient versions and replacing all disposable batteries with recyclable ones Donating to and buying from secondhand stores Researching how things are made and what is/isn't recyclable Legally burning clean, dry, untreated organic material. Top 4. Australians choose property Property is In and Shares are Out, according to a snap consumer poll conducted by the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects. With the Federal Government capping the concessional threshold for superannuation contributions at $50,000 for people aged 50+, respondents were asked where they would put their extra funds - into improving their own home, investing in a negatively geared property or into the share market. Read More... Property is In and Shares are Out, according to a snap consumer poll conducted by the building advisory service of the Australian Institute of Architects. With the Federal Government capping the concessional threshold for superannuation contributions at $50,000 for people aged 50+, respondents were asked where they would put their extra funds - into improving their own home, investing in a negatively geared property or into the share market. Robert Caulfield, Managing Director of Archicentre said an overwhelming 71 per cent of the 450 respondents chose property, with 40 per cent investing in their own home and 31 per cent investing in a negatively geared property. Only 29 per cent chose to invest in shares. Mr Caulfield said with low interest rates an increasing number of people are turning to invest in their home for an improved lifestyle and capital gain, and this is driving the market interest in property. "They are rejecting moving home which can be an expensive exercise with moving costs up to between $50,000 to $75,000 involving loan fees, agent fees, removalist fees, and excessive non productive government stamp duty costs. "Many people are seeing their homes as the superannuation fund they can enjoy the benefits of and sell when ready, attracting no capital gains tax if the home is the principal place of residence," Mr Caulfield said. Top 5. Real Estate terms explained - Party wall A party wall is a wall built on a common boundary, where the adjoining owners have common rights. The rights of the owners can vary but could include: A tenancy-in-common ownership between the two owners. This means that in effect each owner would have a 50 per cent share in the wall The separate ownership of half of the wall, where the wall is effectively divided longitudinally into two strips The ownership of the entire wall by one owner, but subject to an easement with the other adjoining owner to have it maintained as a dividing wall Top 6. The tenant who wasn't A property manager in Auckland was surprised this week when she found evidence of an unexpected tenant in a photograph. Local news website stuff.co reports that when Brigid Curran looked at some pictures she had taken of the property she manages, she saw what appeared to be the figure of a woman standing in the background by the fence. "I thought, hang on. There was no one standing there when I took the photo," she says. Apparently the human tenant living in the house knows about the ghostly figure, which has been around for at least a year.

Latest Property News from Ted Hanson

Hospital Humour A sweet grandmother telephoned Mount Sinai Hospital. She timidly asked, "Is it possible to speak to someone who can tell me how a patient is doing?" The operator said, "I'll be glad to help, Dear. What's the name and room number?" The grandmother in her weak tremulous voice said, "Holly Finkel, room 302. The Operator replied, "Let me check. Oh, good news. Her record says that Holly is doing very well. Her blood pressure is fine; her blood work just came back as normal and her physician, Dr. Cohen, has scheduled her to be discharged Tuesday." The Grandmother said, "Thank you. That's wonderful! I was so worried! God bless you for the good news." The operator replied, "You're more than welcome. Is Holly your daughter?" The Grandmother said, "No, I'm Holly Finkel in 302. No one tells me squat." 1. Home building boosts construction index Continued growth in the number of residential building projects through August lifted the overall pace of decline in the construction industry, Australian Industry Group (AIG) reported this week. The seasonally adjusted AIG/Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) rose by 2.9 points to 42.4 (remaining below the 50 point level separating expansion from contraction). Read More... Continued growth in the number of residential building projects through August lifted the overall pace of decline in the construction industry, Australian Industry Group (AIG) reported this week. The seasonally adjusted AIG/Housing Industry Association Performance of Construction Index (Australian PCI®) rose by 2.9 points to 42.4 (remaining below the 50 point level separating expansion from contraction). AIG Associate Director, Economics and Research, Tony Pensabene, said that reductions in engineering and commercial construction were the main negative influences on activity in August. "However, house building projects exhibited further resilience and increased for a second consecutive month, while the pace of decline eased considerably in the apartment sector." HIA Chief Economist, Dr Harley Dale remarked that the underlying house building index of the Australian PCI® is a shining light for the construction industry. "It is back in positive territory and along with a range of leading indicators is signalling a recovery in new house construction in 2009/10", Dale said. "The early stages of the recovery through the second half of 2009 will be slow, but at least we're moving in the right direction." Top 2. Trade-up buyers return Property owners trading up their family homes are returning to the market after a period in the deep freeze, mortgage broking firm AFG reported this week. AFG's monthly Mortgage Index shows that in August 2009, after property investors, first home buyers and refinancing were taken out of the mix, trade-up buyers accounted for 22.8 per cent of all mortgages sold. Read More... Property owners trading up their family homes are returning to the market after a period in the deep freeze, mortgage broking firm AFG reported this week. AFG's monthly Mortgage Index shows that in August 2009, after property investors, first home buyers and refinancing were taken out of the mix, trade-up buyers accounted for 22.8 per cent of all mortgages sold. This compares to a figure of just 14.3 per cent six months ago, in February 2009. AFG's Index also shows that loan to value ratios (LVRs), the value of loans expressed as a percentage of property value, eased slightly in August from 67.0 per cent to 66.3 per cent. This confirms a higher level of activity by people moving into their second or third homes, who tend to borrow proportionally less than other categories of property buyers. General Manager of Sales and Operations at AFG, Mark Hewitt, commented that the re-emergence of trade-up buyers is a further encouraging sign that markets are beginning to normalise. "AFG would like to see more state governments following the example of WA where the Keystart model is continuing to provide access to funding for borrowers who may not qualify for loans with mainstream lenders", Hewitt said. "The actions of the WA government are helping underpin the long-term sustainability of the property market in WA and it would be great to see other state governments follow their lead." AFG Mortgage Index shows that fixed rate mortgages held steady in August at 5.1 per cent of all mortgages sold, as the majority of property buyers steer away from fixed rate products which have costed in at least two future rate rises. The grip of banks on residential lending remained near its all time high in the second quarter, with banks accounting for 89.1 per cent of all mortgages sold, compared to 92.5 per cent in the first quarter 2009. Top 3. Look behind the green door Owners of green houses around the country will throw open their doors this Sunday (13th September) to show and tell the rest of us what can be done to live a sustainable lifestyle in our own homes. Now in its eighth year, Sustainable House Day allows you to wander through the homes and meet their owners who can guide you on sustainable lifestyle choices for your home and show how easy and economical the move to green living can be. Read More... Owners of green houses around the country will throw open their doors this Sunday (13th September) to show and tell the rest of us what can be done to live a sustainable lifestyle in our own homes. Now in its eighth year, Sustainable House Day allows you to wander through the homes and meet their owners who can guide you on sustainable lifestyle choices for your home and show how easy and economical the move to green living can be. Organisers Judy Celmins and Pia Vogrin say that the most positive feedback from visitors over the past years has been about the willingness of homeowners to share their stories. "Talking about the lessons they've learnt - sharing the stories that have worked and the things that didn't go so well - is just as valuable as looking through the house itself." See the sustainable house day website for details about where and when the houses in your neighbourhood will be available for viewing. Top 4. Happy shiny cities Sydney has lots to be happy about this week, after being rated second happiest city in the world by Forbes Magazine. Its "balmy weather" and "friendly people" ranked it just below the ultimate Carnaval city of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil with its "starry-eyed youngsters dancing into the dusk". Read More... Sydney has lots to be happy about this week, after being rated second happiest city in the world by Forbes Magazine. Its "balmy weather" and "friendly people" ranked it just below the ultimate Carnaval city of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil with its "starry-eyed youngsters dancing into the dusk". Despite our own misgivings about the efficacy of our tourist advertising, it seems Australia has quite a reputation overseas as being full of happy, sunny people sitting round enjoying barbecues. Melbourne rode into 5th place in the list on the back of this reputation, apparently, and Australia was the only country to have more than one city in the top ten. "People know it's in Australia and that it's full of Australians," reports Forbes magazine. "Therefore, it must be fun." Barcelona came 3rd in the list, for its warm weather, lively culture and "the best soccer team in the world", followed by Amsterdam because "everybody is stoned all the time. It's sex, drugs and rock and roll"! Happy indeed. Madrid, San Francisco, Rome, Paris and Buenos Aires completed the list, in that order. Top 5. Longer life for short straws Sometimes it seems designers clutch at straws to find new angles for everyday furniture, but one budding artist has taken those straws and spun them into a gold idea. The Clutch Chair is an exploratory design consisting of 10,000 drinking straws stuck together in the shape of a modular chair, making a subtle comment on our disposable culture. The piece was selected as Curators' Choice at Noise Festival 2008, a global exhibition of the very best in creative talent from people 30 and under, spanning all creative mediums. Top 6. Make light work for you Good lighting can be a definite plus when selling your home, but don't despair if you don't have floor-to-ceiling windows in every room. Simply make sure the lights work, as many prospective buyers flip the light switch when they walk into a room. Avoid harsh lighting; you want to create a warm glow. Regardless of how you have been using the house, take a look now and create some ambient lighting for each room; work rooms such as the kitchens and laundry can use brighter lights, while bedrooms and lounge areas might look best when lit with a couple of strategically-placed lamps. Natural light should always be flaunted, so be sure the windows are clean and in good repair. If you have blinds, shutters or curtains, clean them too, then either push them out of the way or show them to best advantage without reducing the light.

A uniting church shame

how can an organisation like the Uniting Church who profess to be 'for' the people allow a disgraceful decision like Gordon Bradbery's sacking. A more compassionate and caring man who connects with the people will be hard to find

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Friday 04 September 2009 A joke to brighten your day The Lone Ranger and Tonto went camping in the desert. After they got their tent all set up, both men fell sound asleep. Some hours later, Tonto wakes the Lone Ranger and says, "Kemosabe, look towards sky, what you see?" The Lone Ranger replies, "I see millions of stars." "What that tell you?" asked Tonto. The Lone Ranger ponders for a minute then says, "Astronomically speaking, it tells me there are millions of galaxies and potentially billions of planets. Astrologically, it tells me that Saturn is in Leo. Time wise, it appears to be approximately a quarter past three in the morning. Theologically, the Lord is all-powerful and we are small and insignificant. Meteorologically, it seems we will have a beautiful day tomorrow. What's it tell you, Tonto?" "You dumber than buffalo chip. Someone stole the tent." 1. Building approvals lift Building approvals posted a healthy rise in July with a surge in multi-unit approvals, according to figures released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The Housing Industry Association welcomed the news, saying that the bright July result reflected growth in the three largest states of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, and was in part due to a boost provided by the Federal Government's Social Housing Initiative. Read More... Building approvals posted a healthy rise in July with a surge in multi-unit approvals, according to figures released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The Housing Industry Association welcomed the news, saying that the bright July result reflected growth in the three largest states of New South Wales, Victoria, and Queensland, and was in part due to a boost provided by the Federal Government's Social Housing Initiative. HIA Chief Economist, Dr Harley Dale noted that this is the second month in a row that there has been a strong rise in multi-unit approvals, after a period of weakness. "It will be important to see further signs in coming months of a broadening home building recovery encompassing detached and non-detached dwellings, first time and trade-up buyers, investors, and social housing," said Harley Dale. "There are early signs of this broadening in the recovery base, but we have a long way to go", he added.  Total seasonally adjusted building approvals increased by 7.7 per cent in July with detached house approvals up by 1.3 per cent and multi-unit approvals jumping by 28.4 per cent. The number of seasonally adjusted residential dwelling approvals increased in July by 19 per cent in New South Wales, 8.6 per cent in Victoria, and 4.3 per cent in Queensland. Dwelling approvals fell by 9.5 per cent in South Australia, 3.3 per cent in Western Australia, and 15.3 per cent in Tasmania.  The trend number of approvals fell by 1.9 per cent in both the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory. Top 2. Scrapping: Are you entitled to pre-renovation dollars? Are you about to throw out those old kitchen fittings in readiness for a bright and shiny renovation? Did you know that you could claim a tax deduction on the items you are about to `scrap'? Scrapping is the removal and disposal of any potentially depreciable assets from an investment property scenario. In other words, demolition of any existing structure or fixture onsite that would have been eligible for claiming deductions for depreciation or building write-off allowance. Read More... Are you about to throw out those old kitchen fittings in readiness for a bright and shiny renovation? Did you know that you could claim a tax deduction on the items you are about to `scrap'? Scrapping is the removal and disposal of any potentially depreciable assets from an investment property scenario. In other words, demolition of any existing structure or fixture onsite that would have been eligible for claiming deductions for depreciation or building write-off allowance. According to quantity surveyors BMT and Associates, many investment property owners are unaware that the old assets within their property, as well as the building itself, can be worth thousands of dollars. BMT Director Bradley Beer says that there are significant tax advantages that can be generated over and above normal depreciation by recording the value of old assets (like carpet and hot water systems) prior to demolition or renovation. "When these are replaced or `scrapped', owners may be entitled to claim them as a tax deduction", Beer says. How does an investor benefit by scrapping? Scrapping of existing structures onsite is a very effective method of obtaining deductions within our tax system. It can provide additional tax credits for investors who demolish or dispose of existing buildings or any part of it which was owned as an investment asset and eligible to produce income.  Essentially if an item is scrapped, the written down value (WDV) of the item can be `written off' as a tax deduction in the year the expense is incurred. To calculate the scrapping value, the quantity surveyor or client's accountant identifies the items that were removed or scrapped in the renovation process. Why scrap items?  There are several reasons why an item may be scrapped that generally fall under the heading `not fit for purpose'. They include: - Obsolescence; - Functionally inadequate; - Dated style; - Original form was inappropriate or does not maximise the form and function of the property; or - Additional value to the owner is obtained from a renovation. To maximise a scrapping claim focus should be given to items classified under Division 40 (`plant & equipment') as these items have the highest depreciation claim and often the greatest individual value.  It is important to note that a valuation of all items, including those to be retained and those to be scrapped in the refurbishment process is required. It is also important to keep adequate photographic records for possible future auditing by the Australian Taxation Office. The concepts outlined above can provide the property investor with a very attractive tool to maximise the tax benefits available from the refurbishment of an existing building, both immediately and in continued ownership. Substantial deductions can be achieved when the correct decisions are made at purchase and during the renovation or redevelopment process. Top 3. OCR remains at 3.0 per cent As was widely predicted, the Reserve Bank this week left the official cash rate unchanged at 3 per cent for the fifth month in a row. In a statement announcing the decision, Reserve Bank Governor Glenn Stevens said that while some types of capital spending are likely to be held back for a while by financing constraints, it now appears that investment may not be as weak over the year ahead as earlier expected. Read More... As was widely predicted, the Reserve Bank this week left the official cash rate unchanged at 3 per cent for the fifth month in a row. In a statement announcing the decision, Reserve Bank Governor Glenn Stevens said that while some types of capital spending are likely to be held back for a while by financing constraints, it now appears that investment may not be as weak over the year ahead as earlier expected. "Higher dwelling activity and public demand will also start to provide more support to spending soon and, hence, growth is likely to firm going into 2010", Governor Stevens said. "Housing credit has been solid and dwelling prices have risen over recent months. "Business borrowing, on the other hand, has been declining, as companies have sought to reduce leverage in an environment of tighter lending standards. Large firms have had good access to equity capital and access to debt markets appears to be improving, helped by the better-than-expected economic conditions and increased willingness on the part of investors to accept risk. He concluded saying that the Board's judgement is that the present accommodative setting of monetary policy remains appropriate for the time being. Top 4. New homes down slightly in June quarter New residential building fell in the June 2009 quarter, according to figures released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Seasonally adjusted work done on new residential dwellings fell by 1.5 per cent in the June 2009 quarter to an annualised worth of $33.2 billion, 6.4 per cent down on a year earlier. Read More... New residential building fell in the June 2009 quarter, according to figures released this week by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Seasonally adjusted work done on new residential dwellings fell by 1.5 per cent in the June 2009 quarter to an annualised worth of $33.2 billion, 6.4 per cent down on a year earlier. Work on detached houses fell by 2.7 per cent over the June quarter to be worth $22.3 billion in annualised terms. Work done on `other residential building' increased by 1.2 per cent to be worth an annualised $10.9 billion, although work yet to be done fell significantly.   The weakness in seasonally adjusted new residential work done in the June 2009 quarter was primarily reflected in Queensland where activity fell by 13.5 per cent and New South Wales where there was a decline of 2.1 per cent. Falls were also recorded in South Australia (-1.2 per cent), Western Australia (-1 per cent), and the Northern Territory where in original terms work done fell by 1.3 per cent compared to a year earlier. New residential work done increased by 6.6 per cent in Victoria and was up by 8.6 per cent in Tasmania and 29 per cent in the Australian Capital Territory. Top 5. Don't tell me what to do, you old bag! Lots of dads like to think they know everything, but when it comes to the intricacies of washing delicate clothes, it's better left to the informed than a best ditch effort.   With Fathers Day this Sunday, 6th September, the Cotton Laundry Bag with Washing Instructions could help your old man get in the know with washing duties. Instructions printed on the oversize poly-cotton laundry-bag offer a guide for those clueless about colours, fabrics and temperatures throughout the laundry process. Top 6. No swimming trunks allowed What's an elephant got to do to get a break? It seems performing tricks isn't enough anymore as a French town has banned visiting circus elephants from taking a dip at its beaches. Much to residents' delight the elephants were allowed to last year; however local officials have since decided traces of droppings found in the sea pose a health risk. One of the circus' directors commented to news group France-Today that it's a shame as it gave people the chance to see the animals up close for nothing. Now they'll just have to pay the two euros to visit them at the circus. Top

> In This Issue... Building approvals lift Scrapping: Are you entitled to pre-renovation dollars? OCR remains at 3.0 per cent New homes down slightly in June quarter Don't tell me what to do, you old bag! No swimming trunks allowed   15 Eastern Avenue, Mangerton $899,000 Lake Heights - Great Size Blocks of Land Starting from $138,000 115 Murphys Avenue, Keiraville $639,000 > Contact Us Ted Hanson Phone: 02 4229 5344 Fax: 02 4229 7202 98 Market Street Wollongong NSW 2500 email us   > Inspection Times Sat 5 Sept 11 - 11:40am $385,000 31 Cedar Street, Albion Park Rail Sat 5 Sept 12 - 12:40pm $899,000 15 Eastern Avenue, Mangerton Sat 5 Sept 12 - 12:40pm $239,000 10/49 Robson Road, Keiraville Sat 5 Sept 12 - 12:40pm From $138,000 Panorama Land Estate, Shearwater Drive & Whimbrel Ave, Lake Heights Sat 5 Sept 11 - 11:40am $379,000 76 Heaslip St, Coniston For a list of other open for inspection properties contact us or visit us online.   > Mail to a friend... Know someone who likes to keep up to date with the latest in property news? Click here, enter their email address and they will receive a copy of this issue and be given the opportunity to subscribe to future issues.

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