The biggest cost drainer in property investment…and how to avoid it

When you’re purchasing an investment property, ongoing costs are likely one of the first things you will factor into your buying decision. How much are you going to outlay for maintenance, council rates, repayments and other outgoing expenses against your rental income? And are you comfortable with that figure, or is it going to put a strain on your finances?

With the different expenses that accompany property ownership, your rental income will  likely play a critical role in providing you with stability of cash-flow until you realise longer-term capital growth.

And the single biggest threat to this?  Vacancy periods.

Let’s say you are renting a property for $400 per week, and that property remains vacant for a period of four weeks. At the end of the four-week period, you would already be $1,600 out of pocket, and that’s without accounting for the marketing and advertising costs of re-letting the property to a new tenant. It’s easy to see how these costs would stack up quickly.

Whilst vacancy periods can be an inevitable reality of property ownership, keeping them to a minimum should be one of your key priorities when it comes to keeping your rental expenses in check.  So what steps can you put in place to minimise the frequency and potential cost of vacancies?

Set the correct market rent

Setting the wrong rental rate is one of the single most common causes of extended vacancy periods we see amongst owners. Whilst setting a competitive rental rate is important to maximising your rental income, being overly ambitious with your asking price can be equally if not more detrimental to your overall cash flow.

What our property managers say:

“Increasing rental rates in the right market conditions can (and should) be an effective strategy in maximising rental returns, but owners need to tread with caution when it comes to raising rents out of alignment with market conditions. In cases where owners have been receiving above market rent or are facing a particularly challenging market, they may need to reduce rental rates to avoid costly vacancy periods before readjusting them when market conditions improve.”

Dynamic marketing

If your tenants are vacating your rental property, one of the most important things you and your property manager can do to avoid lengthy vacancy periods is be proactive in re-marketing the property for rent. A good marketing strategy will go beyond simply advertising the property, and should focus on a tailored plan based specifically on your target demographic.

What our property managers say:

“If you’re re-advertising your property for rent, the marketing plan for your property should also be reinforced by strong internal follow-up procedures, including call backs to all parties who have attended any home opens. This is a great chance for you or your property manager to gain feedback on the property and plan any potential improvements that could appeal to future tenants. We generally recommend listing the property at the higher end of the rent range, but it’s important to be prepared to make adjustments to this during the marketing process based on the feedback obtained from prospective tenants.”

Be proactive with improvements

Whilst it may seem counter-intuitive to invest funds into your property as a means of getting greater returns out of it, property improvements can sometimes be an important aspect of the pre-leasing process, and can be a crucial factor in minimising vacancy rates and boosting your property’s long-term potential, especially in softer market conditions.

What our property managers say:

“Performing upgrades to a rental property can be a great way for owners to improve its immediate rentability and encourage tenant retention, but not all property upgrades result in higher returns. Before undertaking any improvements, owners should consider speaking to their property manager about what’s in demand amongst tenants to ensure they’re making worthwhile changes that will appeal to their target demographic.”

Bring the property manager in early

If you’re in the process or yet to buy an investment property, a great way to gauge a property’s rental potential is to involve your property manager from the start of the buying process. By asking your property manager for their insights on aspects such as vacancy rates in the local market, tenant turnover and features that appeal to tenants, you can make a more informed investment decision that supports your cashflow needs.

What our property managers say:

“Owners who are working with a buyer’s agent to purchase an investment property should speak to their agent about including an early access clause in the purchase contract. This will allow the property managers to advertise the property for rent before settlement, which could help to further reduce potential vacancy periods.”

Keep hold of good tenants

One of the most effective ways to avoid vacancy periods and re-marketing costs altogether is to retain good tenants for as long as possible. Many landlords will take a ‘set-and-forget’ approach once they’ve rented out their investment property, and whilst easier in the short-term, this will often come to the detriment of tenant retention.

What our property managers say:

“When it comes to maintaining good tenants, we recommend that owners take a proactive approach and are regularly reviewing their property for potential improvements to enhance tenant experience. Proactively keeping on top of tenants’ needs and addressing their concerns throughout the lease period will help to reduce landlords’ vulnerability to vacancies.”

Account for seasonal changes

Much like the buying market in Australia, leasing markets will also be impacted by seasonal trends and activity. Generally, tenants will be less active in the winter months, which can lend itself to longer vacancy periods if the right steps haven’t been taken to mitigate this risk. In these cases, it’s important to be realistic about the rental rate you ask for and focus additional attention on the presentation of the property to increase its appeal during home opens.

What our property managers say:

“Owners who are leasing out their property at a quiet time of year need to be thinking ahead to strategies that could reduce this occurrence in future. Whilst 12-month lease contracts are considered the norm in Australia, extending or reducing this lease term to prevent vacancies falling during unfavourable periods could help owners improve the leasing process in future and achieve more favourable rental rates.”

Without the right strategies in place, vacancies can turn into one of the most costly expenses for property investors, so it’s important that you take the right steps to mitigate these risks. If you would like more advice on reducing vacancy periods, or to speak to our property managers about strategies to proactively maximise your property’s performance, organise an obligation-free consultation via the Momentum Wealth website.

Case Study: Interstate investors exceed profit margins with develop-to-hold strategy

When two experienced interstate investors approached us in 2017 looking to purchase and complete their first residential development in Perth, it took a team effort to deliver their build-to-hold strategy. Below, we look at how our divisions brought the project together to exceed initial profit expectations.

Project Highlights:

• Development delivered under budget, with profit margin exceeded.
• High bank valuations realised an additional $200k in equity
• Construction completed within six months
• All properties rented on 12-month lease term and above initial appraisals, with development coming to completion in a recovering rental market
• Land use maximised to enhance long-term capital value and improve re-sale potential
• No joint liability and over $40k in stamp duty savings through complex finance strategy
• Depreciation benefits on brand new developed product

Brief:

In December 2017, two Melbourne investors approached Momentum Wealth with a brief to jointly purchase a site for immediate development. Working with an acquisition budget below $900,000, the clients saw an opportunity to take advantage of subdued market conditions and low construction costs in WA to purchase a well-located site in close proximity to Perth’s CBD, with a strategy to develop and hold on completion to generate an attractive rental income (in addition to manufactured equity).

Property Search & Acquisition:

With the brief in mind, our buyer’s agent conducted a thorough market analysis, narrowing their search to a number of key areas that met the clients’ criteria. This search focused on strong lifestyle and location attributes to align with the investors’ holding strategy, including proximity to prominent transport routes, schools and nearby amenity to support the development’s long-term growth potential (rental and capital).

After an intensive six-month search period, which included closely monitoring housing stock and off-market listings for suitable opportunities, our buyer’s agent identified a site located 5-6kms south of Perth’s CBD with R40 zoning allowing for group dwellings. The existing dwelling on the site was run down with minimal improvements, making it ideal for a develop-now strategy with low demolition costs. The nature of the site as a decreased estate also provided potential for a quick purchase and settlement process, allowing for a fast construction turnaround as per the clients’ requirements.

The site and existing dwelling were shown to our development team to carry out a comprehensive pre-feasibility analysis on projected returns and end-costs. This resulted in a bid being placed by our buyer’s agent at auction, with the site being secured at the lower end of our appraisal at $850,000 (below land value, with the site revalued post-demolition at $875,000).

Design & Build:

Once due diligence was completed, Momentum Wealth’s research, development and buyer’s agency teams worked together with an architect to evaluate different design options, with a development application submitted to the local government for approval shortly after settlement to minimise the investors’ holding costs. During this process, we were able to make use of the rear laneway to strategically design four villas on survey-strata titles (two street-facing and two laneway-facing). This negated the need for a common driveway, which allowed us to maximise build size (250m² land area), in turn protecting the development’s end value and removing the need for shared strata levies. Whilst making this ideal for a long-term hold, this design also suited the investors’ joint investment strategy by allowing for two identical developed products that could be evenly split on completion.

Following a competitive tendering process and a thorough review of the specification, we were able to work together with the preferred builder to establish high-quality design choices that strategically influenced the time on site required by the different trades involved. By preparing a fixed lump sum construction contract over the entire site, we also enabled the builder to programme the build strategically to further reduce construction timeframes and associated costs whilst maintaining the high quality of design. This allowed for a shorter build timeframe, with the development coming to completion in June 2019 following a six-month construction period.

Final Outcome:

Upon completion, the bank valuation for the new units came in $50k above initial projections, resulting in the investors realising an additional $200k in equity across the development. Due to the short construction timeframe, low construction costs achieved and high-quality design of the final development, the project exceeded initial projections, achieving a final profit margin of over $350k.

With the existing construction loan covering all four units, our finance broker was then faced with the complex task of separating the loans and splitting the titles of the units, which we were able to achieve through a disposition. This mitigated the stamp duty costs associated with transferring the titles, saving the investors an estimated $45k in expenses and removing any joint liability on the final products.

Following the implementation of an in-depth marketing strategy by our property management team, which included targeted online advertising, after-hours viewings and rigorous follow-up procedures, we received eight applications across the four properties from prospective tenants. Within eight weeks, all four units were rented out on a 12-month lease and above our initial rental appraisals, with the properties achieving a final rental rate of between $450 and $475 per week (initially estimated at $405-$435 for street front, and $445-$475 for rear laneway properties). This saw us achieve an additional $100 per week in rental income for the clients, totalling an additional $5200 per annum.

Why you should be considering commercial property

Commercial property will often get overlooked by investors in favour of the more familiar residential sector.

Although it’s natural for buyers to want to stay in the market they’re most familiar with, there are also a number of benefits that could come with diversifying into the commercial sector, especially as your financial and investment needs grow over time.

In fact, while most start their investment portfolio in the residential market, savvy investors will often look to incorporate commercial property into their portfolio as they progress in their investment journey.

So why should you consider adding commercial property to your portfolio?

Diversification into different markets

The first reason is simple – commercial property can offer exposure to an alternative market which is subject to different fluctuations from the residential sector. While both are somewhat influenced by macro-economic factors such as population and economic growth, on a micro-level commercial markets and the varying segments within them (i.e. industrial, retail and office) will fluctuate according to their own market influencers and will often experience growth at different intervals. This can hold a number of benefits from both a risk and opportunity perspective by reducing an investor’s exposure to a single market (and hence its downturns) whilst also enabling them to take advantage of growth cycles in different segments.

Higher cash flow returns

Exposure to different markets isn’t the only benefit commercial property can offer in terms of diversification. Generally speaking, commercial properties will offer much higher returns than the residential sector, with net yields typically ranging from 6-8% as opposed to the 3-4% often associated with residential properties. This does, of course, generally come with a lower capital growth focus, which is why residential and commercial assets often work well when combined together into a diversified property portfolio. For investors who have already built a sizeable portfolio of residential properties, commercial property can be a great way to balance their portfolio with different wealth creation strategies, or alternatively provide an alternative source of income for cash-flow focused investors such as those nearing retirement.

Fewer outgoing expenses

There are a number of other benefits that come with investing in commercial property, one of the main ones being that investors are able to recover outgoings from the tenant. This means that expenses such as council rates, land tax, insurance, and repairs and maintenance are generally covered by commercial tenants, with landlords facing fewer ongoing costs as a result.

Longer lease terms

In addition to lower outgoing costs, the lease terms on commercial assets will generally be much longer than the 12 month leases we often associate with residential properties, with standard commercial leases ranging anywhere from five to fifteen years. This can be highly beneficial for investors seeking a stable income stream, with many commercial leases also containing fixed annual rental increases to support rental growth over time. While reducing the likelihood of frequent vacancy and re-leasing periods, this does however increase the risk of longer vacancies when a tenant leaves, so it’s important to have a strong and proactive management strategy in place to combat this.

But commercial property is too expensive…

While commercial property can be a great addition to an investor’s portfolio, the biggest hurdle for many buyers is the high cost of good quality commercial assets. These can range anywhere from $2 million to $20 million and above for high-quality properties, which needless to say isn’t within the financial reach of most investors (let alone the risk associated with putting all this capital into a single asset).

However, this isn’t the only means of gaining exposure to the commercial market. A growing number of investors are looking for different ways to access the commercial sector, with many finding a viable alternative in pooled funds and commercial property trusts. These options can offer the same benefits in terms of exposure to alternative markets and cash flow returns, but without the same risk and capital outlay associated with investing directly in a single commercial asset.

Want to learn more about commercial property funds? Download the latest guidebook from our sister company, Mair Property Funds, or visit their website for more information on their upcoming investment opportunities.

Mair Property Funds expands portfolio with two new acquisitions

The team at MPF are excited to announce we have expanded our asset portfolio with the settlement of two new acquisitions in Adelaide and Perth.

The assets include a modern office/warehouse facility located in the prominent industrial area of Pooraka in Adelaide’s north-west, and a brand new Commercial Service Centre in Banksia Grove WA, acquired by our team for $7,550,000 and $20 million respectively.

These mark our fourth and fifth acquisitions this year after placing a strong focus on expanding our portfolio in response to growing levels of investor demand, both in the retail and wholesale space.

The Adelaide-based warehouse also represents our first purchase in South Australia following close monitoring of the market by our acquisitions team, and our fourth raising for MPF Diversified Fund No. 2, which now holds six assets across Western Australia, South Australia and Queensland spanning the retail, medical and industrial sectors.

The asset offered a number of benefits including reduced acquisition costs through the stamp duty exemption in South Australia, and is well-located along one of Adelaide’s most important freight transport routes.

The property also has a strong tenant in leading steel distributor, Vulcan Engineering Steels, who currently have over seven years remaining on their lease term.

Our second acquisition – a mixed-commercial service centre located in Perth’s expanding North East corridor – also marked a milestone for the MPF team, with the launch of our new wholesale investment trust, MPF Banksia Grove Property Fund.

The asset, which spans a site of 13,164 sqm, benefits from a prominent corner location at the intersection of Joondalup Drive and Joseph Banks Boulevard, and is well positioned to leverage future growth opportunities in Perth’s expanding North East region.

While benefiting from a shortage of further commercial service and retail space in the surrounding suburb, the centre offers excellent rental prospects through its diverse mix of national tenants including 7-Eleven, Repco, Pet barn, Mercy Care and Chicken Treat, which collectively offer a WALE of almost 12 years by income.

Given the strength of the tenancies across the two assets and the high levels of income security they offer, we are confident the acquisitions will make strong additions to our portfolio and help to further support distribution expectations for our investors.

Having received high levels of interest for these funds, our research and acquisitions team are now actively searching for further opportunities to expand our portfolio. If you would like to be notified of future investment opportunities at Mair property Funds, please contact our Key Relationships Manager, Brad Dunn at bdunn@mair.com.au

Six key strategies to maximise your rental yields

With Perth’s rental vacancy rate reaching its lowest level in nearly six years and competition picking up amongst prospective tenants, we’re seeing increasingly optimistic signs for Perth’s rental market. Whilst these initial improvements are yet to translate into rental price movements across the board, these transitioning markets can be a crucial period for investors looking to better position themselves to leverage future market opportunities. With this in mind, here are some essential tips on how to maximise rental yields during a dynamic market.

Understand what’s driving tenant demand

It’s one of the fundamental principles of property investment that demand drives growth, and the rental market is no different. In order to achieve the best rental yields in any market conditions, it’s important to firstly understand the factors driving tenant demand. Target markets will often vary from area to area, so researching comparable properties in the local market is a good starting point when identifying potential features to boost your property’s own rental appeal. For instance, is there a premium on rental properties with built-in storage space or air conditioning units? Your property manager can be a great source of information when it comes to understanding tenant expectations, and a proactive property manager should be able to advise you on cost-effective strategies and value-add recommendations to enhance your property’s rental performance.

Keep up the appeal

In a transitioning market, not all property investors will be realising rental growth at the same time. However, in order to put yourself in the best position to leverage market opportunities, it’s important to look for ways to improve the immediate rentability of your property, while also enhancing its long-term appeal and performance. Making these changes proactively rather than holding off until your property is worse for wear could not only improve the appeal of your property to new tenants, but also maximise tenant retention by attracting renters that are more likely to view your property as a long-term solution rather than interim accommodation. Given the costs of replacing tenants and re-marketing properties on a regular basis, retaining good tenants can be just as important as achieving strong rental rates when it comes to maximising cash flow and achieving the best possible rental returns.

Set the right rental rate

It’s a common misconception in the real estate industry that maximising rental yields is synonymous with increasing rental rates. In reality, however, achieving the best results for your rental property often comes down to setting the right rental rate in the first place. Whilst increasing rents, when the market allows for it, is a great strategy for improving cash flow, doing so outside of market movements (or similarly not adjusting expectations in line with the market) can prove more costly for owners in the long run if it means facing lengthy vacancy periods as a result.

Consider including additional clauses in the rental contract

If you’re anticipating future improvements within the rental market but are yet to see a significant uplift in market rents in the area surrounding your investment property, your property manager might recommend including additional clauses in the leasing contract that will allow you to review or increase your rental rates further down the line. This is a great strategy to ensure your property continues to align with wider market movements, but it’s important to be cautious of excessive rent rises and the impact these might have on your relationship with tenants.

Proactively manage leases with seasonal influences in mind

Much like the wider sales market, rental demand will often fluctuate based on factors such as time of year and seasonality, with some seasons lending themselves to higher levels of tenant demand than others. As an owner, this may mean reducing your rental expectations in low-demand periods (such as during the winter months) to ensure your property is leased as quickly as possible and avoid costly vacancies. Whilst one or two-year leases are often considered the industry norm, timing lease renewals to fall in higher demand periods can help owners achieve higher rental yields and avoid untimely reductions that set their property below market rents.

Speak to a value-add property manager

As an investor, it’s important not to underestimate the crucial role property managers can play in maximising the performance of your property portfolio. A good property manager won’t just manage the day-to-day maintenance of your properties and handle tenant relationships, they will be able to make strategic recommendations to proactively enhance the performance of your properties. The right property manager can be an invaluable asset when it comes to identifying value-adding opportunities, understanding the local market, and recommending clauses to ensure your property remains aligned with market demand.

Momentum Wealth is a full-service property investment consultancy dedicated to assisting investors in all aspects of their property investment journey, from financing through to property acquisition and property management. Visit our website for more information on our property management services.

4 critical reasons why using a mortgage broker is more important than ever

Australia’s lending market has once again found itself at the centre of conversation in recent months, with the release of the final report from the Banking Royal Commission raising new uncertainties as to what the future of the lending environment might look like. Amongst other things, the report brought into question the role of the broking industry – an event which has since sparked overwhelming support for brokers on the part of both consumers and industry professionals, in turn triggering a revision of the report’s initial recommendations. In light of these events, we reflect on the fundamental role of mortgage brokers and why they are more important than ever in today’s lending environment.

Access to more products in a challenging environment

In a lending environment characterised by change and uncertainty, understanding the different options available has become critical for investors. Whilst lenders are typically limited to their own range of loan solutions, established brokers will generally have access to products from multiple different lenders (in some cases, as much as fifty), and will be able to compare these different products to identify the rates and features best suited to an investor’s unique situation and investment strategy. At a time when loan choice has been somewhat limited due to changing lending criteria and tighter serviceability metrics, this tailored approach can be crucial not only in ensuring investors have access to different options and are receiving the best lending solution for their current situation, but equally importantly in ensuring they have the flexibility they need to progress with their investment goals.

Loan structuring that supports your long-term needs

Whilst using a broker can impact the number of products available to you, who you choose to secure a loan can also hold key implications on the way in which your lending portfolio is structured. Whilst lenders will typically look to structure loans in a manner that mitigates risk for them, a good broker will look towards structures that minimise risk for the borrower. This can be crucial in helping investors avoid potentially restrictive and high-risk loan structuring models such as cross-collateralisation, ensuring they have maximum borrowing capacity to support the expansion of their portfolio in future.

With many buyers already facing reduced borrowing capacity due to tighter serviceability metrics, having the right loan structures in place and being able to access credit has become critical in helping investors progress with their investment goals. However, it’s important to note that even brokers can structure loans unfavourably if they don’t have the right knowledge and expertise to understand and support their clients’ needs. Engaging a specialist broker with a strong knowledge in investment finance can therefore be crucial in helping investors establish the right foundation to build a successful property portfolio.

Important advice when it helps

As an investor, how you interpret your financial capacity (i.e. your ability to afford repayments) won’t always align with the lender’s assessment of your financial situation. Lenders take into account a multitude of different factors when assessing a borrower’s eligibility for a loan, with income and living expenses really only scratching the surface. With banks undertaking significant reviews of their lending criteria in the aftermath of APRA changes and in the run-up to the Banking Royal commission, keeping up with market fluctuations and understanding how these changes impact borrowing capacity has become increasingly difficult for investors.

However, brokers work with specialist software on a daily basis that provides them with access to the latest information from lenders. These market insights enable them to provide support not just during the lending process, but also in the lead up to submitting a loan application. Whilst these insights themselves can prove invaluable in helping borrowers prepare for a loan, most brokers will also be able to carry out a pre-approval process to assess the likelihood of a loan submission being accepted, in turn preventing multiple loan rejections which could leave a bad mark on an investor’s credit record.

Ongoing support to navigate the changing lending market

Whilst the support brokers provide prior to loan applications has become incredibly important to many investors in today’s changing lending environment, it’s the ongoing guidance and advice provided by brokers during and after the lending process that has become pivotal in helping borrowers navigate the complexities of the modern lending market. From researching the market for the appropriate lending solution to following up with lenders and addressing issues throughout the submission process, brokers have come to play an incredibly important role in guiding borrowers through what has become an increasingly complex and hands-on process.

This support will often extend far beyond the transaction itself, with brokers in many cases playing a fundamental part in the ongoing optimisation of an investor’s property portfolio through regular loan reviews, cash flow strategies and proactive advice on market changes. This guidance can prove crucial not only in helping investors navigate the market, but in putting them in a better position to achieve their property wider investment goals in future

As specialists in property finance, Momentum Wealth’s finance division are dedicated to providing our clients with the advice, support and knowledge they need to progress with their investment goals. If you would like to discuss your property needs with one of our consultants or want further advice on the changes impacting the lending environment, our mortgage brokers would be happy to discuss your needs in an obligation-free consultation.

The big misconceptions about investing in real estate

As one of the most popular investment asset classes in Australia, property is an incredibly exciting industry to be a part of. However, the real estate sector can also be subject to a lot of misinformation. With such an abundance of advice and market news out there from different sources, deciphering useful advice from misleading information can often seem like an impossible feat, especially if you’re entering the market for the first time or investing in an unfamiliar location. In this article, we address five of the biggest misconceptions about investing in residential real estate.

Australia only has one property market

A lot of people will already be familiar with the concept of the property clock, but one of the most common mistakes buyers and market commentators make in the real estate industry is applying property market statistics to Australia as a single property market. This generalisation is something we often see in the media and news reports, but Australia is in reality home to a vast number of property markets, all of which are at different stages of their cycle and subject to different market drivers. Take Sydney and Melbourne as an example – whilst these capital city markets are both experiencing significant levels of decline after coming off the peak of their property cycles and entering their downswing phase, we’re actually seeing the opposite scenarios in Perth and Brisbane, with these markets at the bottom of their cycle and showing early indicators of recovery following a period of decline.

Whilst often impacted by the same national regulations (something which is in itself a subject of dispute amongst many property experts), it’s important to note that each of these markets and economies are also influenced and driven by different industries. For instance, whilst Perth and Brisbane are largely driven by the resources industry, which means their property markets tend to perform better when the resources sector is performing strongly, Sydney and Melbourne are largely founded on the financial industries. As such, the latter tend to be more influenced by movements in the financial sector, as was seen with the Global Financial Crisis and the negative impact this had on these capital city markets.

All properties move in the same direction as the market

In a similar vein to the property cycle, another frequent misperception in real estate is that when a market is growing (or indeed declining), all properties within that market will be behaving in the same way. However, whilst statistics such as median house price can be integral in providing an indication of the overall performance of a city and the direction in which a market is headed, they don’t necessarily reflect the performance of every single property and suburb within that location. Even within separate markets, individual sub-sections will be at different stages in their property cycle and experiencing growth at different rates.

Perth has been a prime example of this in recent times with the emergence of its two-speed market. Despite the overall perception that the market is in a state of decline (which is true of the median house price and oversupplied outer suburbs), areas of the city’s sub-regions have been recording price growth for over a year, due largely to rising demand from trade-up buyers. For this reason, it’s vital that buyers conduct in-depth research not just of a wider area, but also of individual suburbs and properties when looking to leverage market opportunities and (equally importantly) minimise their investment risk.

Sticking to what you know is always best  

It’s often natural instinct to look towards areas you’re already familiar when investing in real estate. This can understandably be somewhat of a comfort zone for buyers as it will often feel like the safer approach given they already have a strong knowledge of these markets and their features. However, limiting property research to such a small radius can often lead buyers to miss out on better investment opportunities elsewhere. In fact, by the time investors have narrowed down their search to properties that align with their budget, expectations and wider investment strategy, they may be left with a significantly lower number of properties that actually meet their criteria. As tempting as it may be for buyers to stick to what’s familiar, expanding this search radius could help investors identify areas and markets with higher growth potential, and potentially find more lucrative investment opportunities as a result.

Property is a set and forget investment

Whilst it would be great to be able to purchase a property and sit back whilst that asset increases in value, this also isn’t a realistic approach for investors looking to achieve the best possible outcome from their portfolio. Realising the full potential of a property isn’t just about selecting the right asset in the first place (although this is incredibly important), it’s also about effectively managing and monitoring that asset to enhance the property’s performance and ensure it remains aligned with market demand.

Proactively monitoring the market for value-adding opportunities, managing tenant relationships effectively and identifying strategies to maximise a property’s rental yields are all crucial in optimising an investor’s portfolio and enabling them to make the most of market opportunities. However, this approach also requires time, in-depth market knowledge and detailed research – something which often isn’t achievable for buyers with other full-time commitments. Finding a property manager who understands and actively supports these needs can therefore be crucial in helping investors maximise the long-term value of their property and enhancing the performance of their overall portfolio.

Buying cheap is always a good way to enter the market

Purchasing a cheap property to enter the market can be a very tempting strategy for first-time buyers or novice investors. However, whilst budget is a crucial factor to consider, purchasing a cheap property to get into a “better” suburb or enter the property market sooner can also be a risky approach, and one that won’t necessarily pay off in the long run. These “bargain” deals may seem great on the surface, but it’s important to remember that in most cases, a cheap property is cheap for a reason – because that’s what buyers are willing to pay for it. In many cases, this lower price point can also signify a wider problem with a property – perhaps noise pollution and traffic from a nearby highway, or lack of demand from buyers and tenants.  Whilst purchasing a property within one’s means is incredibly important, it’s vital buyers also consider factors such as local supply, rental demand and nearby growth drivers to ensure they’re selecting a property that also supports their wider investment strategy.

Identifying the right advice amongst all the information that surrounds the property industry can be challenging for buyers. However, surrounding yourself by the right professionals and engaging a team with an in-depth knowledge of the local market can help you navigate these complexities and ensure you’re making informed investment decisions that support your long-term goals.

If you would like some expert advice on your next property investment or  would like more insights on the topics discussed above, contact our team to organise an obligation-free consultation with one of our property investment specialists.

Momentum Wealth successfully settles iconic Trigg site in latest syndicate

Momentum Wealth is delighted to announce we have settled on the acquisition of 331 West Coast Drive in Trigg following the successful raising for our newest property development syndicate.

Currently occupied by the iconic Yelo Café, the 684sqm site is zoned ‘Local Centre’, with plans underway for a mixed-use development incorporating a commercial tenancy on the ground floor and a limited number of luxury apartments above.

The high level of investor interest received during the raising has served as an indication of growing demand for premium boutique projects in key locations across Perth, as investors continue looking for high-quality projects and investment opportunities that stand out and align with the appeal of the local market.

We have also observed increasing interest in residential property development syndicates amongst investors as they continue to be attracted by the benefits of being able to access high-potential projects and reduce risk.

The recent acquisition plays a key role in our strategy to address rising demand for more diverse housing choice in highly sought-after locations, in particularly boutique apartment products targeting downsizer markets where such housing options are in sparse supply.

A strong holding income from the existing tenancy and the prime coastal location of the site also served as key points of interest during the acquisition process.

News of the development has already resulted in a number of early enquiries from potential buyers, continuing to reinforce the appeal and viability of such projects from both a buyer and development perspective.

The biggest finance mistakes made by first-time buyers

Many first-time buyers underestimate the fundamental role finance plays in property investment. Getting the right financial structures and lending solutions in place when purchasing a property can be crucial to your long-term success, and could mean the difference between achieving and missing your financial goals. Our Beginner’s Guide to Property Finance covers the essential aspects of securing and maximising lending opportunities as a buyer or investor, but here is a small insight into the finance mistakes to avoid when securing a loan.

Not preparing early

Whilst securing finance is the first step towards getting your foot on the property ladder, this step should start long before you apply for your first loan. As a property buyer, preparing your finances early is essential to maximising your finance opportunities, and failure to do so could leave you with limited lending options. Whilst budgeting to save up for that all-important deposit and keeping a record of your finances are vital steps in preparing for a loan, it’s also important to understand how your credit score, repayment history and existing debts could influence your borrowing capacity. This is especially the case with Australia’s recent move towards comprehensive credit reporting, which will see more financial information recorded in a borrower’s credit history.

Limiting your research to one lender

As a borrower, it’s important to understand that each lender and bank has their own policies and methods when it comes to calculating serviceability, meaning your eligibility for lending products will vary considerably between different lenders. In today’s volatile lending environment, it’s vital to research and compare loans from different lenders to ensure you’re selecting the best product and rates for your circumstances. As well as broadening your lending options, comparing different loans could help you make significant savings in interest, putting you in a better financial position to progress with your financial goals.

Choosing the wrong broker

Whilst many buyers recognise the benefits of using a mortgage broker to secure a loan, it’s also important to understand that not all brokers are equal. Mortgage brokers who lack training or experience in property can still structure your loan unfavourably or recommend a lending solution that doesn’t fully support your objectives. If you want to make the most out of your lending solution, it’s important to select a broker who has a strong understanding of property investment finance and the structures that support this. A good mortgage broker will take both your immediate situation and long-term property goals into account before recommending a lending solution to suit your needs.

Not understanding holding costs

Holding costs are a key financial obligation that many first-time buyers overlook when researching properties and lending solutions. As well as monthly mortgage repayments, buyers also need to consider additional expenses when it comes to assessing their financial limits, including costs such as property maintenance, land tax, energy bills and property insurance. Underestimating or failing to account for these holding costs before securing a loan is one of the most common factors that leads first-home buyers into debt, in many cases preventing them from moving forwards with their investment goals – or worse, forcing them into early sale.

As a buyer, it’s important to understand the difference between what you can borrow and what you can afford when selecting potential properties. By understanding your financial situation and the demands a specific property will place on this, you can ensure you’re not overextending yourself financially or researching properties outside your means.

Not reviewing your loan

Whilst you may have chosen the right loan for your circumstances when investing in your first property, this doesn’t necessarily mean this will always be the best lending solution available to you. In reality, your objectives, situation and (depending on your lending solution) the interest rates you receive will likely change over time. To ensure you’re still receiving the best rates and products for your circumstances, it’s really important to review your loan on a regular basis (preferably yearly) to ensure your lending solution continues to support your financial needs.

Download our Beginner’s Guide to Property Finance

If you would like to learn more about the steps and processes involved in securing property finance, our Beginner’s Guide to Property Finance covers a comprehensive range of topics and tips on how to maximise your finance opportunities as a property buyer. To find out more, fill out a form to receive your free guide today.

What type of property investor are you?

Every property investor is different, and it’s important to recognise that there is no single property investment strategy or investment type suited to everyone.

When building and expanding your property portfolio, you need to establish what it is you are aiming to achieve, and what it is you can feasibly achieve, to understand the right strategy and investment types to support this. Knowing your risk profile and understanding the limitations that accompany this is crucial to determining what type of investment suits you, as well as the results you can expect from your investment strategy. Here are a few essential points to consider to when determining the right type of investment for you.

Defining your risk profile

What are your property investment goals?

Before choosing the right type of investment for you, you first need to consider what it is you want to achieve from investing in property. In other words, what are you short and long-term goals? Are you hoping to get a steady income stream from your portfolio, or are you looking to achieve long-term growth? Outlining your objectives will help you build a clearer picture of the long-term plan you need to achieve your goals, helping to inform your investment decisions along the way.

Bear in mind that your property investment goals, and implicitly your risk profile, will likely depend on your financial situation and where you are in your investment journey. For instance, an investor who is at the beginning or peak of their investment journey is likely to have different goals than someone who is nearing retirement and perhaps seeking a steadier source of income to align with their cash flow needs.

How secure is your financial situation?

Your tolerance for risk and your ability to handle fluctuations in market conditions will depend heavily on your cash flow security and your financial situation. For example, an investor with a strong and stable source of income may be able to tolerate more risk and short-term losses than someone who has a more volatile source of income with low security. Similarly, an investor with low levels of debt and fewer obligations is likely to be able to cope with more risk (and have more borrowing power) than an investor with high levels of debt and multiple dependants.

How do you handle risk?

As well as outlining your investment goals, it’s also important to consider your tolerance for risk when determining the type of properties you’re suited to as an investor. Whilst high returns might be your ideal goal, you also need to consider whether you are willing to take on the risks that might accompany this investment strategy.

For instance, how would you react if your investments dropped in value? Are you willing to incur (and can you afford to take on) short-term losses for the prospect of high long-term returns? Or are you looking for reliable income, but willing to accept lower growth over time? By understanding your view on the relationship between risk and return, you can start to form a strategy that balances both your objectives and your needs as an investor.

Understanding your risk profile

• Conservative – Investors with a lower risk tolerance are more likely to take a conservative approach and invest in assets with lower volatility. These assets are more likely to maintain a steady value, but may not offer the same long-term prospects as higher growth options such as value add strategies.
• Balanced – Investors with a more moderate tolerance for risk are likely to invest in more growth options with moderate income potential. Investors adopting this strategy might take a more balanced approach to investment, offsetting the risk of high growth properties by maintaining some funds in income-producing assets.
• Aggressive – Those with a higher risk tolerance will generally take a more aggressive approach to property investment, focusing on high growth and value add strategies. This may include strategies such as property development and renovations, which focus on building equity and improving yields to allow for further investment. These strategies may present greater risk, but often with the potential for higher returns.

Getting professional advice

There are many different factors to take into consideration when developing an investment strategy, and whilst the above may give you an idea as to the strategy that might suit you, it’s important to seek professional advice when determining the right type of investment to fit your unique situation and goals. A professional buyer’s agent will be able to assess your personal circumstances, financial situation and long-term goals to help you identify a property investment strategy that supports your property objectives, whilst also aligning with your financial needs and tolerance for risk

If you would like to discuss your property needs with one of our experienced property experts, our Perth buyer’s agents at Momentum wealth would be happy to discuss your situation in an obligation-free consultation.

New strata laws passed through WA parliament

In the biggest reforms to WA’s strata legislation in over twenty years, new strata laws have been introduced that will impact the rules governing the termination of strata schemes in WA.

The Strata Titles Amendment Bill 2018 and the Community Titles Bill 2018 were passed through WA parliament in early November, and include a number of reforms aimed at improving the management and development of strata schemes. But what do the changes mean, and why are they being implemented?

What are the new strata reforms?

The new laws introduced under the Strata Titles Amendment Bill and the Community Titles Bill include a number of key reforms, including changes to legislation surrounding scheme management, rules to allow for faster and more flexible staged subdivisions, and the introduction of two new types of strata. However, the biggest reform to emerge from these reforms relates to the rules surrounding the termination of strata schemes.

Previously, a strata scheme could only be terminated and redeveloped with unanimous agreement from all owners within the scheme. However, under new legislation, a majority termination process has been implemented, whereby a scheme of five units or more can be terminated with the agreement of 80% of owners.

In order to safeguard owners and ensure all owners’ rights are taken into consideration, all termination proposals need to undergo a full review process by the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT), which will assess the benefits and drawbacks for related parties and ensure the termination process is correctly followed.

Why are the new strata rules being implemented?

There are a number of reasons driving the reforms to WA’s strata laws, but the overarching aim of the changes is to ensure strata laws remain aligned with the modern needs of WA communities and the State’s growing population.

In addition to providing better outcomes for property owners by implementing improved dispute resolution processes within strata schemes and setting out clearer obligations for strata managers, the reforms are intended to deliver new land development options to drive economic growth and facilitate WA’s expected population growth.

Given that the first strata schemes in WA were created over 50 years ago, the termination and redevelopment of these schemes is expected to become more commonplace. The new laws are designed to set out clearer and more transparent processes for the termination of these schemes, allowing for more straightforward redevelopment of aging strata properties. These changes could prove fundamental in supporting the gentrification of local areas and helping to facilitate better outcomes for future developments.

Momentum Wealth is a Perth-based property investment consultancy dedicated to helping investors accelerate their wealth through property. We have served investors for over 12 years, assisting clients in the research, financing, acquisition, development and management of their investment properties.

Five factors to consider when choosing a builder for your property development

Surrounding yourself with the right team is an important aspect of any property development, especially when it comes to selecting a builder for your project. Delays in construction timeframes, poor communication and low quality workmanship can all impact the profitability of your development, so it’s really important that you put careful consideration into the experts you choose to support your development strategy. Here are five key due diligence questions to ask when choosing a builder for your next development.

What projects does the builder specialise in?

The type of project you’re developing should be one of the main factors you take into account when choosing a builder. When it comes to selecting a company, make sure they have experience constructing similar property types to the development you have in mind. If you’re developing a single-storey house in a lower socio-economic area, for example, you will likely be choosing a different builder than if you were developing luxury apartments above 3 or 4 storeys in a high-end suburb. It’s really important that you choose the right builder for the type of project you’re developing, as this can have a huge implication on the quality and suitability of your end product.

What is the financial standing of the builder? 

Before contracting any builders, it’s important to check that your chosen company is financially viable. Selecting a builder with a poor financial standing could leave you in hot water should the company go into administration mid-way through a project, leading to delays in construction and potential loss of income.

To ensure the builder you select has a strong financial standing, get an insight into their financial position by asking for financial statements and researching independent credit reports. You may also want to visit their current building sites to speak to sub-contractors and ensure their current developments are well run. If a builder is consistently late in paying other contractors, this may be a sign that they are unreliable or in a poor position financially, which could lead to a compromise in the quality of your development.

How high is the quality of their finished projects?

Whilst experience can tell you a lot about a builder, nothing will tell you more about their commitment to quality than viewing one of their projects in person. As you progress through discussions with a potential builder, it’s always a good idea to conduct a walk-through of one of their recently completed projects to assess the quality of their workmanship and the level of finish. If the builder is confident in their previous work, they should be happy to show you around a completed development. This is also a good occasion to ask the builder any additional questions regarding build contract price and project timeframe to help you reach a decision.

What are their contractual conditions?

Whilst price will inevitably be a key consideration when selecting and negotiating your contract with a builder, it’s also important to consider the clauses contained in the contract itself. There are various different contracts that builders and developers use in Australia, and you need to ensure that these conditions are favourable to you as a developer. For instance, will the builder allow you to include clauses for penalties should they not complete construction on time? And what are the specific conditions surrounding the calculations of time extensions? Remember – the cheapest builder doesn’t always translate into the highest quality work, so it’s important to take all aspects of the contract into consideration.

What do previous clients say about them?

As well as speaking to sub-contractors involved in existing projects, a great way to gain insight into the reliability and quality of a builder is by speaking to clients who have dealt with them directly in the past. Delays in communication could set your project back considerably and cause delays in construction timeframes, so speaking to previous clients is a good way to find out how effective the builder is at communicating and keeping to project deadlines. If this option isn’t available, ask whether your chosen builder has any client reviews or testimonials from clients they have worked for in the past.

Mitigate risks with professional project management

Choosing a builder is just one of the many factors you will need to consider when completing a property development project. In reality, a huge amount of due diligence, research and planning goes into a successful property development, and even a small oversight during these stages could have a detrimental impact on your bottom line. In these cases, having an experienced development management team to oversee your project and identify the right professionals on your behalf could be fundamental in helping you mitigate risk and capitalise on the potential profit of your development.

If you would like to speak to our Perth development team about an upcoming project, contact our team today to organise an obligation-free consultation.

The common mistakes investors make during property negotiations

Negotiating is one of the fundamental aspects of property investment, but it’s also the one aspect that many investors dread. Strong negotiating can be crucial to maximising your profit; however, it’s also an easy process to get wrong, especially when you’re negotiating against a selling agent whose very job is to represent vendors on a regular basis. So what are the key mistakes to avoid during property negotiations?

Not knowing what the property is worth

Arguably the most important bargaining chip you can have when entering property negotiations is knowing the worth of the property you are investing in. This will form the fundamental starting point of your negotiation strategy by helping you determine what you should offer for the property (and the maximum you are willing to pay).

In addition to preventing you from overpaying for a property that won’t pay you back in profit, knowing an asset’s value can be key to helping you identify high potential opportunities when they arise. If, for example, you know a property is listed on the market significantly below value, this knowledge will put you in a stronger position to make a competitive offer on the property, in turn increasing your potential for success during negotiations. This can be especially important in a moving market when prices are fluctuating regularly, as even the most recent sales evidence may not reflect current market conditions.  In addition to thorough research into comparable properties and the local market, having a property expert appraise the property to assess its worth could be key to giving you the confidence and knowledge you need to leverage a profitable investment opportunity.

Letting emotions drive your buying decision

“Emotional buying” is usually associated with home buyers purchasing a property to live in; however, a surprising number of investors also let their emotions dictate their actions during property negotiations, and end up paying more than a property is worth as a result. This is often the case with properties that are attracting high levels of interest from prospective buyers.

Whilst emotions are an inevitable part of the buying process, it’s really important to assess a property objectively and remain level-headed during negotiations. Most importantly, however, you need to know when to walk away from a deal and look elsewhere. One of the ways you can reduce this emotional investment is to research the market and have alternative properties in mind as a secondary option. However, if you know keeping emotions out of your investment decision is not your strong point, you may want to consider enlisting the help of an experienced buyer’s agent to handle the negotiations on your behalf.

Giving your cards away too early

The key to being a good negotiator in any situation is being able to understand and leverage the motivations and needs of the opposing party. In property negotiations, however, it’s also about keeping your own cards close to your chest. If the selling agent knows you are only interested in that particular property, or that you are emotionally invested in the asset, they will often leverage this to secure a higher offer. Divulging your motivations early in the process could therefore significantly reduce your bargaining power moving forward.

On the other hand, knowing a seller’s motivations during property negotiations can give you a fundamental advantage when it comes to negotiating the price of a property. Have they already bought another property? Has the property been on the market for a significant length of time? Or do they need to sell the property by a certain date? Whilst this will ultimately depend on what the selling agent is willing to disclose, this information could be key to shaping your negotiation strategy and helping you secure the best deal possible on the property.

Don’t get caught – consider engaging a buyer’s agent

If you’re not confident in property negotiations or don’t have the experience and knowledge of the market to support your investment decisions, you may want to consider engaging a professional. A buyer’s agent can research properties and negotiate the purchase process on your behalf, with the benefit of local agent knowledge and ongoing experience in the property market. Having access to this objective and informed third party can give you a huge advantage during the negotiation process, helping you to avoid costly mistakes and make the most of opportunities for profit.

At Momentum Wealth, our Perth buyer’s agents have been helping investors grow their wealth through property investment for over twelve years. If you are planning to purchase a property or expand your existing portfolio, our property acquisition specialists would be happy to discuss your needs in an obligation-free consultation.

Split loans: the best of both worlds?

One of the key decisions investors will need to make when purchasing a property and applying for a new loan is whether to opt for a fixed or variable interest rate. However, an alternative option that property investors sometimes take when seeking to reduce their risk or capitalise on the benefits of both options is splitting their loan into separate components.

As the name suggests, split loans allow investors to separate their loan into different loan accounts, with most investors typically opting to fix interest rates on one portion of the loan whilst leaving the other component variable. So what are the potential benefits of this strategy?

The benefits of split loans

Security – Whilst the fixed portion of the loan allows investors to manage the risk of increases to interest rates, the variable component of the loan also enables them to take advantage of rate cuts should interest rates with their lender actually decrease. This can be particularly useful in times of economic uncertainty or volatility in the lending environment, as it allows investors to minimise the impact of rate fluctuations that work against their favour.

Flexibility with repayments – One of the drawbacks of opting for a fixed loan over a variable interest rate is the reduced flexibility this gives investors when it comes to making additional repayments. Many lenders will limit the number of extra repayments you can make on fixed rate loans, which can be a problem for investors looking to pay off their loan faster. By opting for a split loan, investors will have the flexibility to make additional repayments on the variable component, which can be an ideal solution for investors looking to be more effective with their repayments without fully compromising the stability of a consistent interest rate.

Additional features – By having a variable component in their loan, investors may also be able take advantage of additional features such as offset accounts and redraw facilities to help them better manage their mortgage repayments and pay their loan down faster. These features often aren’t accessible for investors with a loan that is fully fixed.

The drawback of split loans

Before applying for a split mortgage, it’s also important to understand the implications and potential drawbacks of splitting your loan. For example, if interest rates were to rise but part of your loan remained variable, you would be partially impacted by the fluctuations and would miss out on the potential savings you could have made by fixing your entire loan. Similarly, if interest rates decreased and part of your loan was fixed, you also wouldn’t be able to take full advantage of the lower rates available through the variable component. The case study below demonstrates how this scenario could work.

Case study – As an example, a borrower takes out a $400,000 loan over a 30-year term. They fix three quarters of the loan at 3.95% for two years, keeping the remaining $100,000 variable at 3.80%. In this scenario, their fixed monthly repayments would be $1,423 per month, and their variable repayments would be $465 per month, bringing their total monthly repayments to $1888.

If the lender were to increase their variable rate by 20 basis points to 4%, the borrower’s total monthly repayments would increase to $1,900, marking an increase of $12 per month. In this instance, if the borrower had opted to make the entire loan variable rather than split the loan, their total monthly repayments would have increased from $1, 863 to $1,909, marking a higher increase of $46 per month.  

If, on the other hand, the variable rate was actually to decrease by 20 basis points to 3.60%, the total repayments in the split loan scenario would decrease to $1,877, saving the investor $11 per month. In this case, if the whole loan was variable, the repayments would have decreased to $1,818 per month. Whilst the variable loan would have provided the investor with the lowest repayments in this situation, this scenario is wholly dependent on interest rates decreasing, which is extremely hard to predict as an investor.

Choosing the right option

Deciding whether a split loan is suitable in any given scenario will ultimately depend on your needs and objectives as an investor. Before deciding which option to take, it’s important to speak to a professional mortgage broker who can help you understand the potential risks and benefits of each option to ensure you’re making the best decision for your individual situation.

If you’re applying for a property loan and would like professional advice on the best option for your circumstances, our finance brokers would be happy to discuss your needs in an obligation-free consultation.

Six essential questions to ask before investing in a property development syndicate

Property development syndicates are gaining increased popularity amongst investors looking to diversify their investment portfolio and access large-scale development projects without the time and costs involved in developing an entire project themselves. However, investing in a syndicate can be a daunting and potentially risky process when you don’t know what to look for in a high quality investment. Here are six essential questions you should be asking to mitigate risk and identify a syndicate that suits your investment strategy.

Does the development syndicate match your risk profile?

If you’re considering investing in a property development syndicate, the first thing you will need to ask yourself is whether the syndicate aligns with your risk profile and investment property strategy. As opposed to yield-based commercial property syndicates, which tend to be suited to investors seeking a passive income stream, property development syndicates typically focus on generating higher profits within a shorter timeframe through capital growth and value-add strategies. Rather than receiving regular income distributions, investors will generally receive a final distribution upon the completion and sale of the development project, and will therefore need to factor this into their overall finance strategy. These syndicates are typically higher risk, but with the right management and strategy in place, can also offer significant rewards for investors seeking to build wealth quickly.

What size is the syndicate?

Another key factor that can determine the risk of syndicated investments is the size and scale of the syndicate itself. Most development syndicates will need to secure a certain number of pre-sales before construction can go ahead, with the target pre-sales generally being higher with larger developments. This can lead to longer wait times before construction, during which time the project will be exposed to market fluctuations. This is something you will want to bear in mind when researching different property syndicates to ensure the project aligns with your expectations and financial strategy.

How experienced is the syndicate management team?

A key due diligence question you should be asking before investing in any type of syndicate is whether the syndicate management team have experience in similar projects. For instance, what properties have they already got in their portfolio? And have their past projects generated successful outcomes? The syndicate management team will be responsible for everything from initial site research to acquisition and management of the development project, and will therefore play a fundamental role in the success of the syndicate. As an investor, it’s vital to do your own research to ensure the development project is in the best hands possible. As a rule of thumb, it’s always a positive sign if the syndicate promoters have their own capital invested in the development and are personally tied to its success.

What additional fees are involved in the investment?

When it comes to budgeting for a syndicated investment, one of the fundamental things you will need to know as an investor is the fees involved. Whilst almost every syndicate will require capital to cover capital raising fees, marketing fees and management, it’s important to note that not all developers are equal, and some will charge significantly more than others. When researching different projects, this is something you may want to ask the syndicate management team to ensure you are making a worthwhile (and most importantly, profitable) investment.

What is the strategy behind the property development syndicate?

Another fundamental element that will determine the success of any property development syndicate is the strategy behind the project. This is a crucial due diligence question you should be asking the syndicate managers before making your investment decision, as getting the end-product wrong can have a hugely detrimental impact on the overall returns of the development. Who will the development be targeting? Are there strong current and future demand drivers in place in the local market? Does the property type and size appeal to the project’s target demographic? And are there any future supply threats from competitor developments? These questions will help you determine whether the syndicate management team have completed thorough research and developed a strong investment strategy to support the success of the development.

Have thorough due diligence checks been performed?

In addition to researching the strategy behind the development, one of the fundamental questions you should be asking as an investor is whether the syndicate management team have completed thorough due diligence checks to assess the feasibility and profitability of the project. Failure to notice obstacles and warning signs early on, such as limestone underground that will hinder construction works or easements on titles, can be incredibly costly to fix further down the line, significantly reducing the overall profit from the project and leading to lower returns for investors. Even less tangible factors such as community opposition to a development can be accounted for and mitigated with the right due diligence and strategy up front. Before investing in a property development syndicate, make sure the management team have conducted comprehensive feasibility checks and consolidated prices to ensure you’re not met with any nasty surprises on completion of the development.

If you are considering investing in a property development syndicate and would like to learn more about opportunities for investment with Momentum Wealth, please request a consultation or contact Momentum Wealth’s Key Relationship Manager, Brad Dunn, on 0424 138 044. 

5 finance mistakes that can limit your borrowing capacity

When building a property portfolio, most investors will focus on the need to identify properties with high growth potential. However, your property portfolio will be hindered from the outset if you can’t get the funds to finance your investment journey.

Choosing the right financial structures and taking the right steps towards preparing your finances can be critical to achieving your long-term property goals, and failure to do so could severely restrict your ability to move forwards with your investment plans. Here are five common finance mistakes that can limit your borrowing capacity.

Cross-collateralisation

Cross-collateralisation is where a lender uses more than one property as collateral to secure a loan. This is a common practise amongst banks looking to maximise their security; however, unbeknownst to many investors, this set-up can also have critical implications on your future borrowing capacity.

As your debt levels increase with your chosen lender, many banks will restrict your product choice or even stop lending to you altogether due to increased risk. Unfortunately, the likelihood is that you would then also be unable to secure a loan from a different lender due to the lack of property titles available as security, meaning you may then need to refinance your loans to switch lenders.

In addition, crossing your loans could also restrict your ability to leverage equity from your portfolio for future investment purposes. For example, if one of your properties increased in value but the others had decreased, the equity from the first property would be inaccessible due to the value of the portfolio as a whole. To avoid these issues and maximise your potential borrowing capacity, it’s better to take out separate loans for each new property from an established line of credit, using multiple lenders where possible to maximise your product choice.

Choosing the wrong ownership structures

When it comes to applying for a loan, it’s really important to choose an ownership structure that aligns with your property investment plans. Choosing the wrong structure can have vital implications on your ability to achieve your goals, and it can also be an expensive mistake to fix retrospectively.

For instance, whilst buying property via a trust may be useful for asset protection, this ownership structure can also limit your future borrowing capacity due to the tax implications involved, with many lenders not allowing negative gearing claims for loan serviceability. Similarly, a lot of lenders won’t allow you to borrow through a Self-Managed Super Fund. After speaking to your accountant about the best structure to suit your situation, you will need to talk to your mortgage broker about whether you can actually get funding with that ownership structure, ensuring you understand the future implications this could have on your borrowing capacity.

Not understanding joint and several liability loans

Joint loans and several liability loans can be a useful option for borrowers looking to increase their serviceability, but it’s also important to understand the potential implications of these products. When borrowing jointly with another party, you will each be individually responsible for the debt (in most cases, 100% of it), but lenders will only take into account half the rental income when assessing your serviceability in future. This can impact your borrowing capacity should you wish to invest in another property outside of the joint purchase.

However, bear in mind that individual lenders will often assess this differently, and speak to a mortgage broker with a knowledge of property investment to ensure you understand the full implications of your chosen lending product.

Taking on too much debt

When determining your eligibility for a lending product, lenders will calculate your debt-to-income ratio to assess your ability to service the loan. One of the key mistakes that can therefore significantly limit your borrowing capacity as an investor is taking on too much unnecessary debt and expenses.

A key factor that often catches investors out here is their credit card limit. Banks will consider credit card limits as debt, and will take a monthly liability to mitigate their risk in lending to you. This can impact your perceived serviceability, and therefore limit your potential borrowing power.

When taking on additional overheads or applying for a personal loan, make sure you understand how these additional debts and expenses could impact your future eligibility for an investment property loan. If serviceability is becoming a problem, you may need to consider cutting back on unused credit cards and paying down existing debts to improve your potential borrowing power.

Making too many loan enquiries

Another fundamental finance mistake that a lot of investors make is submitting too many credit enquiries. Many borrowers don’t realise that these enquiries will be recorded in their credit report, which can then be viewed negatively by future lenders and adversely impact your eligibility for a further loan.

A lot of banks will often be reluctant to lend money to you if they see you have made multiple credit enquiries in a short time period.  If you’re thinking about applying for finance, consider speaking to your mortgage broker first to carry out a pre-approval and assess the likelihood of qualifying for the loan.

Maximising your borrowing potential

With banks tightening their lending criteria in light of recent movements in Australia’s lending environment, it’s never been more important for investors to understand the factors that can impact their borrowing capacity.

Preparing your finances early and seeking the advice of a specialist mortgage broker who understands the structures and steps that support your long-term investment is fundamental for those looking to make the most out of their investment journey.

If you are looking to secure finance for your next property or would like to discuss how recent changes to the lending environment could impact you as an investor, Momentum Wealth’s mortgage brokers would be happy to discuss your situation in an obligation-free consultation.

Did you know credit reporting is changing?

Did you know credit reporting in Australia is changing? If not, you’re not alone. Despite new credit reporting rules coming into force in July 2018, the vast majority of Australians remain unaware of these changes and how they will impact their potential borrowing capacity.

The new move towards comprehensive credit reporting, now compulsory amongst major lenders, will see more data being included on credit reports, and will likely have a significant impact on investors’ credit scores. But what do these changes mean? And is comprehensive credit reporting a good or bad thing for investors?

What’s changing?

Comprehensive credit reporting, also known as ‘positive credit reporting’, has been in play in Australia since 2014, but has (up until now) remained voluntary. Whilst remaining an opt-in process for some lenders, as of 1^st July 2018, comprehensive reporting became mandatory for the Big Four banks. The major lenders were given 90 days to supply 50% of comprehensive credit data to credit bureaus, with the further 50% to be supplied by 1^st July 2019. But what exactly is comprehensive credit reporting?

The move towards comprehensive credit reporting will see lenders provide more consumer credit information to credit reporting bodies. Under the previous negative reporting system, consumer credit reports would only include information such as previous enquiries for credit products and defaults on payments 60 days or more overdue. However, under the new system, credit reports will now include up to 24 months of additional repayment information, including repayments (made or missed) on credit cards, personal loans and mortgages. Other information included in the comprehensive reports includes:

• When a credit account was opened or closed
• The type of account held
• The credit limits of the accounts
• Up to 24 months of repayment history

How will these changes impact investors?

The inclusion of this additional data isn’t necessarily a bad thing for borrowers. In fact, for those who make repayments on time, comprehensive credit reporting is likely to be a good thing, as it provides a means for borrowers to build a strong credit score and show their positive repayment history. This could ultimately provide borrowers with better credit opportunities and could be especially beneficial for first-home buyers who were previously unable to show their creditworthiness.

Having said this, borrowers also need to be aware of how these changes could negatively impact them. Whilst previous reports would only include information regarding serious infringements such as defaults or bankruptcies, the new inclusion of an individual’s comprehensive repayment history could see those who miss repayments suffer from lower credit scores. Some of the factors that may decrease your credit score include:

• Not making minimum credit card payments on your credit card
• Late payments on credit cards, personal loans and mortgage of 14 days or more (note: this doesn’t apply for utility bills)
• Defaults overdue by 60 days or more
• Submitting multiple loan applications/enquiries

What can you do to protect your credit score?

Whilst the full effects of comprehensive credit reporting are yet to be realised in Australia, the changes have raised increased speculation as to the potential for a move towards risk-based pricing from lenders. Although this is yet to be seen, borrowers looking to benefit from changes to the credit reporting environment will need to take steps towards improving and protecting their credit position sooner rather than later. Now more than ever, it’s important for aspiring investors and borrowers to make their repayments on time and remain up-to-date with the factors that could influence their credit score. Those who do this could be in a significantly better credit position when it comes to applying for a loan in future.

In light of recent changes to credit reporting, our finance specialists will be offering an obligation-free consultation for investors looking to learn more about  their credit position. As part of this advice-driven service, our mortgage brokers will run your comprehensive credit report and help you analyse your results, offering key advice on how to maximize your borrowing capacity prior to applying for a loan.

Case study: the risks of cross-collateralisation

When it comes to growing their property investment portfolio, the majority of investors will look to leverage the equity from their current properties to fund the next step in their investment journey. What many investors don’t realise, however, is that the structure of their existing loans can have critical implications on their ability to do this.

Unfortunately, lenders will often look to structure loans in a way that is favourable to them as opposed to the borrower. In many cases, this often leads to a problem known as cross-collateralisation, whereby one or more existing properties are used as security for a loan. Whilst favourable for banks looking to minimise their own risk, this structure can lead to a number of issues for investors and their long-term goals.

In our latest case study, we highlight some of the key risks and restrictions associated with cross-collateralisation.

The problem

Prior to enlisting Momentum Wealth, the client had approached his bank directly to arrange loans for three properties – his home and two investment properties. When structuring the client’s portfolio, the bank had used the investor’s home as security for both investment properties under an overarching loan amount of $600,000. Unbeknownst to the client, this was about to pose a significant issue for his future plans.

Despite the fact the investor was able to pay off the mortgage on his own residence, this structure meant his home title remain tied up with his other investments. With his home used as security for his investment properties, the investor was running the unnecessary risk of forced sale or repossession of his main residence should he fall into debt and be unable to make his loan repayments.

Further to this, when the investor attempted to withdraw equity to purchase another property, he discovered he was unable to do so. Although he had the required capital to fund a further purchase, his equity was trapped in the complex loan structure, leaving him unable to borrow from the bank for his next investment.

The solution

Faced with this dilemma, the investor approach Momentum Wealth in search for a solution that would offer the security and flexibility he needed to progress in his investment journey.

By refinancing the loan, we were able to uncross and re-structure the client’s portfolio. Instead of using the investor’s home as collateral, our finance brokers set up two separate $300,000 loans against each specific investment property. This freed up the client’s home title and enabled the investor to access the equity he needed for his next investment property. Through doing this, we were also able to identify a more competitive interest rate for the client, saving him over 1% in interest.

The importance of loan structure

As an investor, it’s important to be aware of how the structure of your loan can impact your long-term investment plans and risk exposure. Having the right structure in place can be critical in giving you the flexibility and security you need to achieve your long-term investment goals, but it also holds fundamental implications for the protection of your existing assets. In today’s complex lending environment, especially, this is why it’s more important than ever to find a finance specialist with an understanding of your property investment goals and the structures that support this.

If you’re experiencing problems with your current lending solution or would like advice on financing your next property, our finance specialists would be happy to discuss your needs in an obligation-free consultation.

Is refinancing the right strategy for you?

As an investor or home buyer, choosing the right loan product can be crucial to your financial security and long-term investment plans. However, the lending environment and your own financial situation can also change over time, which means your original loan may not always support your ongoing needs. In these situations, many investors will consider refinancing their loan to achieve a better rate or gain access to products that better suit their circumstances. However, this strategy can also carry significant risk for those who don’t understand the costs and implications involved. So, when should you think about refinancing? And what are the factors you need to consider before doing so?

Why refinance?

Better rates elsewhere – The lending environment is highly competitive and will often fluctuate with changes in market conditions and lender’s policies. This means that what might seem like a good rate today won’t necessarily be the best interest rate for you in future. Many investors will choose to refinance when there are lower interest rates available with another lender. In addition to reducing monthly repayments, this could ultimately help you pay off your home or investment loan sooner. In addition, refinancing may enable you to access a greater range of features and add-ons, such as redraw facilities and flexible repayment plans. Reviewing your loans every twelve months, or when there are considerable changes in the lending environment, can help you ensure you are still receiving the best rates and products for your circumstances.

To leverage equity – Another reason investors might choose to refinance is to access the equity they need to progress in their investment journey. If you are planning to renovate or want to expand your portfolio by investing in another property, you will no doubt need to borrow more money to do so. If you’ve paid off some of your existing loan and your property has increased in value, refinancing may enable you to access the equity you need (and therefore borrow the money you need) to take the next step towards your long-term investment goals.

Your circumstances have changed – As an investor or home buyer, it’s important to ensure you choose the right lending solution to suit your situation. However, your situation can also change over time. If you are expecting a change that will have a significant impact on your cash flow, such as a drop in income at work or a reduction in household earnings due to pregnancy, you may need to re-address your financial situation to ensure you can continue to make repayments. If cash flow is a concern, refinancing may enable you to access a rate or lending product that is more suited to your current circumstances. For instance, if you require stability of repayments due to temporary life changes, switching to a fixed-rate loan could give you access to a more predictable repayment plan.

To consolidate debt – Some investors will choose to refinance their loan as a means of consolidating other debts such as personal loans and credit cards into one facility. This can benefit investors who are struggling with large interest repayments by potentially enabling them to bring together their debts and access lower interest rates to reduce their overall monthly repayments. However, since home or property investment loans typically have longer terms, you will also need to ensure the benefits of this outweigh your long-term costs by making additional repayments as quickly as possible.

To extend interest-only periods – With recent changes in the lending environment triggered by APRA regulations and the scrutiny of the Banking Royal Commission, some investors are finding it difficult to re-extend interest-only periods on their loan. If you’ve been unable to do this with your current lender after re-assessment of your situation (now standard practice amongst most lenders), you may be able to refinance to another lender. However, it’s important to remember that each lender will have their own unique policies, meaning your eligibility for certain products can differ vastly between different banks. To avoid submitting multiple enquiries, which could have a negative impact on your credit score, speak to a broker with an in-depth knowledge of different lender’s products and policies to help you identify the right product for your situation.

Consider the risks

Before making the decision to refinance your loan, there are also some key factors you need to take into consideration. Most importantly – will the savings you make outweigh the costs involved? Although refinancing may help you access a better interest rate, you will also need to consider upfront costs such as exit fees loan, loan establishment fees, break costs (for fixed rate loans) and, should you need to borrow more than 80% of the property’s value, Lender’s Mortgage Insurance. If your projected profit doesn’t exceed your potential losses, you will need to reconsider your strategy.

In addition, you also need to remember that property appraisals are an inevitable part of refinancing. Afterall, lenders will need to know your property’s worth before issuing a new loan. This is where it’s really important to get your property professionally appraised prior to submitting a new loan application, or to work with a broker who has access to these valuations. If your property has reduced in value, this will have a significant impact on your ability to access better terms on your new mortgage, and your broker may recommend against refinancing.

If you’re thinking about refinancing but don’t know whether this strategy is right for you, our specialist mortgage brokers would be happy to conduct a complimentary review of your existing loans in an obligation-free consultation.

MPF Diversified Fund No.2 open for investment

Mair Property Funds has opened our latest fund for new investment.

MPF Diversified Fund No. 2, which currently comprises three well-leased commercial assets, is structured to acquire a diverse range of commercial properties across multiple states, including industrial facilities, large format retail, offices and medical centres.

The fund follows the success of our raising for MPS Diversified Property Trust No.1, which closed in September 2017 after unprecedented levels of investor demand.

Mair Property Fund’s Managing Director, David Ellwood, says the success of the fund provides a strong reflection of the growing demand for commercial property trusts amongst investors.

“We are seeing increased enquiries from savvy investors looking to diversify their property investment portfolio into different asset types and locations”

“The lower capital required to invest in commercial property trusts, as well as the higher yields typically associated with commercial assets, are providing a  strong incentive for investors looking to reduce their risk whilst benefiting from a passive income stream,” he said.

MPF Diversified Fund No.2 is projecting initial income distributions of 7.5% for the first year, with average projected distributions forecasted at 8% per annum or more over a five-year period.

To commence the portfolio, we have purchased three assets, including a large format retail asset tenanted by a national liquor franchise, a new industrial facility based in Queensland, and a Brisbane-based medical laboratory tenanted to specialised medical equipment manufacturer, Aim Lab Automation Technologies.

The assets are 100% leased and offer a WALE of seven years, with minimum investment for the fund starting at $50,000.

Mr Ellwood says he is confident the assets offer strong criteria for long-term success.

“Our asset selection process has been heavily focused around targeting stable, high-quality assets with long-term potential for income growth”

“With strong tenancies in place across the first three properties, as well as the diversity of the tenancy mix and asset types, we are confident these properties are well-positioned to perform and deliver strong investment returns,” he said.

We are now actively seeking further assets to incorporate into the fund, with the aim to build a portfolio up to a total value of circa $60M.