Ten Tips For Buying A Second Home You Will Want to Consider
The promise of another home that you can spend some time in, away from the “main” house, is one of the reasons that you need to get:
Ten Tips For Buying a Second Home:
1. Take a look at your finances. Is there enough to handle, essentially a double mortgage payment? If not, how much of a payment is available? Is there one half? One third? Have that information as you go forward.
2. For what purpose are you going to be using this residence? Is it going to be a place by the beach? A mountain retreat? Is it going to be rented out during most of the year? Is it going to be a permanent rental property? Is this a property that you are going to be setting up a business in? All of these have different tax advantages and disadvantages, so be prepared for that. The amount that you came up with in item #1 is very important for this.
3. Where do you want this home to be? Is this home going to be in a high-end neighborhood? A middle class gated community? Is it going to be in a high crime area?
4. What type of house? One story, two? Ranch, Colonial, etc? What types of maintenance will be needed? Is it ready to move into, or are there things that need to be done? Get an inspection, first, and find out! Continuing maintenance is also an important thing to note.
5. What type of financing is needed to handle this purchase? You’ll need to be very careful about this point. Will this home be empty most of the year or will it be making you money?
6. Check out the property tax situation. Check out the schools, especially if you have young ones or you are going to be renting it to people who may have kids.
7. Insurance, tax liability, other considerations. These are all important. If you are going to living there, the interest is, currently, tax-deductible. If you rent it out, the expense for that is deductible. Insurance is important no matter what.
8. Get a local real estate agent! This is the one that knows the area, knows the people, knows the values of the homes, and can possibly steer you in another direction if they can help you do the best thing instead of just an OK thing. They will have their own list of buying a second home tips that might be helpful to you as well.
9. Avoid impulse buying!
10. Make sure that this second home you’re buying is close to all of the amenities that you will need far into the future. You may need to retire here!
When buying a second home it is important that everything you do will help you make the best decision(s) to get the best for you and your family! Above all; always get proper financial and legal advice before signing any property contract. It is vital you get the details right.
Noel recommends this independent resource for useful tips Buying A Second Home and advice on Home Mortgage Loans.
Thinking Of Touring Australia… Where To Visit And The Things You Need To Know
If you have never visited Australia, you might not totally appreciate what you are missing. Australia has the lot from pulsating cities like Sydney and Melbourne, to geographical wonders like Ayres Rock and Kakadu National Park. A vacation to Australia will be an experience you’ll in no way forget.
Australia, the 6th largest country on earth. It is expansive and stretches 2547 miles from west to east and 1975 miles from north to south. The coastline alone stretches a continuous 18,600 miles. Australia is vast, but a large amount of the terrain is unpopulated, or more precisely, uninhabitable. Locals call it “the outback”, which in reality means desert or semi-desert countryside. Australia’s population of 22.5 million in April 2011 is predominantly concentrated on the East Coast, where land and infrastructure can support the population.
Buckle up your seat-belts as we are ready to commence this quick tour around Australia.
Let’s launch our Australia tour right midway at Alice Springs, although in reality most tourists will start off in Sydney, Cairns, Brisbane, Perth, Melbourne or Adelaide. Flying is the easiest method to get to Alice Springs (locally its called “Alice”). If you fancy a real adventure, then travel to Alice Springs on the legendary Ghan Train from Darwin or Adelaide.
The gigantic attraction at Alice Springs is Uluru, otherwise called Ayres Rock. This geological phenomenon is absolutely spectacular, so it is well worth seeing at least once in your lifetime.
A plane journey north-west takes you to the township of Broome, well-known for its pearls, turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, camel rides, and an average annual temperature of 90+F (30C).
To the south (about 1367 miles) is Perth which is the capital of Western Australia. Perth is a successful contemporary metropolis servicing the mining industry which mines gold, diamonds and other valuable resources.
Travel east a further 1673 miles by railroad or car to Adelaide in South Australia. The city of Adelaide has lots of historic churches and oozes charm and character.
Travel south-east, and you will sooner or later, (Australia is a massive size) arrive in Melbourne, the capital city of Victoria. Melbourne is wonderfully cosmopolitan and is well-known for the shopping and enjoyable food. Melbourne has scores of businesses and restaurants run by family of migrants from Greece, Italy, and Asia. The city has the world’s biggest tram network which truly adds to the character of Melbourne city.
Cross over into New South Wales and stay in Sydney. Here you’ll see the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Sydney has plenty to offer including cruises on the picturesque Sydney Harbor. It is not surprising the city in 2010 was voted in the top 10 “most livable cities in the world.” Places of interest include Darling Harbor, the Royal Botanical Gardens, Hyde Park, and Bondi Beach. There are also several first-rate museums in Sydney.
Just 574 miles north is Brisbane, the capital city of Queensland. Before you get to Brisbane, you might One more significant destination south of Brisbane is Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast. Queensland’s Gold Coast is known for his skyscrapers overlooking the ocean, the nightlife in Surfers Paradise, and the thrilling theme parks – SeaWorld, Dreamworld, Movie World, Wet ‘ n ‘Wild, and Whitewater World.
An hour or two north of Brisbane is Queensland’s Sunshine Coast. It is not to be missed. The “Sunny Coast” as many locals call it, basks in an average summer temperature of 82F (28C) and 68F (20C) in the winter. Queensland’s Sunshine Coast has some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in Australia, including Mooloolaba, Coolum, Maroochydore, Noosa, Caloundra, and Kawana.
For more unspoiled beauty and marvelous scenic views take a short drive into the Sunshine Coast hinterland. On the way to the hinterland you could go to see a crocodile show at Australia Zoo. Mooloolaba has Underwater World, home to turtles, sharks, and other interesting marine creatures.
The Sunshine Coast is popular with visitors many of whom return year after year. Some, including many folk from across Australia, choose to never leave because they prefer to live in paradise. The Sunshine Coast has a number of excellent canal waterway suburbs, the best of which are Kawana Island, Pelican Waters and Minyama.
Cairns or Townsville in north Queensland would be the next major destination, but it is worth exploring Mackay, Hervey Bay, Bundaberg and Rockhampton on the way north. On your travels you’ll see lots of sugar cane growing as well as other mouthwatering tropical fruits including mangoes, paw paw and pineapples.
When you arrive at Cairns definitely book a boat trip to see or snokel the Great Barrier Reef. A ride on the Skyrail to the township of Kuranda is well worthwhile.
Our quick Australian tour is almost over. From Cairns you can fly to Darwin in the Northern Territory. There you’ll see monstrous salt water crocodiles. Darwin is really tropical and has no winter or summer seasons. Instead it has a rainy season followed by a dry season.
We’ve more or less gone full circle, but take it from me, Australia is a sizable country with so many things to see and do. Vacation more than a month or two if you can. Even if you stayed that long you would still only visit a small percentage of what this country has to offer.
Noel suggests Kawana Island for luxury canal lifestyle living on the Sunshine Coast, in Queensland Australia.
How Improved Infrastructure Can Dramatically Impact On Property Prices And Rental Demand
The first question most “newbie” residential property investors will ask is, “where is the best place to invest?” Experienced developers and investors will know that property is demand driven, and it is usually best to buy where there is a current, or likely future demand, for residential housing or rental properties. People want to live within easy access of services – it’s as simple as that.
The point is; large infrastructure projects generally stimulate demand for nearby real estate. These infrastructure projects usually create plenty of jobs as well as follow-on demand for goods and services. They also provide a more effective use and connectivity of the available economic resources.
The resulting increase in economic activity from new and “more disposable” incomes will in turn typically boost economic growth. That’s why more people will want to purchase or rent residential real estate in locations within close proximity to major works.
Major infrastructure projects can take many forms and often include transport infrastructure improvements such as link roads, railway line extensions, new bridges, and major freeways.
Other projects could be new shopping malls and commercial precincts, new power stations, improved communications facilities, industrial areas and business parks, new hospitals, schools and universities. These can all have an impact on local property values and demand for residential property.
Let me give you an example of what I mean.
In July 2010 the Daily Telegraph in the UK reported an increase of 26 percent in East London house prices following the news that London had won the right to host the 2012 Olympic Games. Not surprisingly, East London is getting a huge upgrade in facilities associated with the 500 acre Olympic Park.
The main transport hub for the London Olympics is the Stratford Regional Station which requires upgrades aimed at a threefold increase in capacity. So, it’s not surprising that all this impacts local property values.
The key from a property investor’s point of view, is to attempt to buy in areas before the major infrastructure projects are announced or started. However, there is a risk in this strategy.
The project may not start on time, or the project may get cancelled before it even gets under way. That’s why it pays to stay well-informed especially if politics are involved.
Let me give you an example of another major infrastructure project, this time “down-under” in Queensland, Australia. Both sides of the political spectrum are committed to building the new $2billion Sunshine Coast University Hospital at Kawana.
They are so committed to completing the project, they are arguing over who can build it sooner – either 2015 or 2016.
Now, if I were a local property investor, I would take this as a strong indication the project is a high priority on the political agenda and will proceed with urgency. Plans are also on the drawing board for a town center alongside the new hospital.
The nearby Sunshine Coast University is also projecting big increases in student numbers which, like the new hospital and town centre, will require good supporting roadways and transport infrastructure. The question is; what will that do to property values and rental demand for nearby suburbs like Kawana Island? If I was a local investor I certainly know where I would be investing.
In general, improvements in transport infrastructure such as roading and rail, or constructing new hospitals and universities are typically strong drivers for residential real estate prices. It is important to not only look at the short-term impact during the construction phase, but also consider the long-lasting ramifications on the area as regards permanent employment prospects.
The key is to thoroughly research areas before buying real estate, particularly if you are a property investor looking for a good return. Local knowledge is always an advantage when it comes to investing in property.
For more information on Kawana Island, Noel suggests you visit the Island Quays web site.
8 Small Business Opportunities From Home
In this article I have eight business opportunities you could start from home. Within just a few miles from where you live there are probably hundreds, if not thousands, of people earning incomes from small businesses based at home. That doesn’t mean they are confined to the house all day. Many people operate mobile businesses, but use their home as their business base.
The point I’m making is that, if so many others can do it, why can’t you? There is no end to the possibilities and business opportunities out there. You just need to work through which best suit you and start preparing a business plan.
Anyway, here are 8 small business opportunities to stimulate your thinking and to show you the variety of jobs people do from home.
1. Bake bread specialties
Bake unusual or otherwise unavailable varieties of home made breads: oat bran, low calorie, ethnic, salt free. Keep a small advertisement in your local paper, take orders for loaves fresh from your kitchen and/or deliver fresh to stores. Please keep in mind that when you are preparing food products for sale you may have to comply with health regulations relating to the manufacture and/or labeling of the products. As with all ideas mentioned here, do your homework first to check that you are fully aware of your rights and responsibilities.
3. Sell collectibles
Accumulate collectibles (glass, matchbook, baseball cards, comic books). From everyday specimens make up starter collections you can sell to beginners. Sell valuable pieces individually to collectors.
3. Become a collection agent
Represent one or more commercial agencies. Solicit delinquent accounts for collection from local businesses for a percentage of monies the agency collects.
4. Lingerie for larger ladies
Start selling larger sized lingerie by mail order or over the internet. Select a range of lingerie that you are happy with, either sourced from other manufacturers or made yourself, produce a catalog and watch the orders arrive.
5. Sell business equipment
Buy surplus equipment from bankruptcy sales and auctions. Store and clean up, but do not repair (let buyer do that). Advertise bargain prices for qualified buyers and sell at double or triple your investment. Check that you comply with all laws and regulations when starting a new business.
6. Make cement markers
Make “engraved” cement or liquid marble markers and signs. Mold “backwards” letters into various colors and textures of plastic-like cement for carved in effect. Polish molded marker into a professional looking stone.
7. China and glass dealer
Collect and deal in antique and interesting china and glass items. Buy glass and china items at auctions, antique stores, private and public sales and through your advertisements. Deduct travel expenses for buying trips and visits.
8. Grow and sell roadside produce
If you have a wonderful vegetable or flower garden, why not start a business selling your produce from home. Set up a shelter that will protect your produce from the weather, and have a bell that people can ring to get your attention if you are out of the shop. Make sure you comply with local regulations.
I hope at least one of these business opportunities is worthy of more in-depth consideration. It may even trigger another idea in your mind.
Noel recommends this website with free golf tips and Golf Course New Zealand information on NZ Golf Clubs.
How Can I Earn Extra Income Using My Vehicle
A lot of people want to earn some extra income working from home, but still have the freedom to get out and about, rather than be stuck behind a home office desk. Well, the good news is, there are all kinds of business opportunities to make money using your vehicle without having to be confined to your home or office.
So, if you’re thinking, “how can I earn extra income using my vehicle”, then here are a few ideas to get you started. They are ideas that have worked for other people, so you might find one of them useful. Even if none of these ideas is suitable for you, it might make you think of some other ways to earn extra income.
1. Become a mobile disc jockey
Do you have a wide range of music and equipment? If so, then a mobile disc jockey business may be for you. The service could be in demand for weddings, birthdays and all types of parties. You will probably need your own van to transport the equipment to venues.
2. Start as a mobile manicurist
Use your vehicle to bring your supplies to a clients home or office. This saves them time, and you can charge a premium for this door to door service. Alternately, set up a small manicurist studio from home.
3. Start a mobile pet groomer service
Go right to the pets home, that way, they will feel more relaxed, and you can charge a premium for coming to the client. Offer a range of services to customers and sell pet care products as additional revenue for your mobile pet grooming service. Pets are big business, so there are lots of opportunities to make money in this industry, and why not operate from home. You can keep your costs to a minimum and choose the hours you work.
4. Start a firewood delivery service
Buy good quality wood cheaply, and resell it to your clients at a profit. As well as selling by the cord… sell smaller amounts as well. You need either a large trailer, a truck or possibly a van to deliver the firewood.
5. Dinner party catering
Offer a service whereby you create culinary delicacies for dinner party guests. You provide all the food, arranged on platters or bowls. You could also offer a service whereby you serve all meals, and provide waiting staff in the clients’ home or chosen venue. This could be a lucrative business for someone with the right skills and a suitable vehicle.
6. Mobile tree surgeon
With a little training and experience, anyone can trim, treat, fill and seal tree “wounds”. Start with small jobs and gradually increase as you build confidence and buy more equipment. Take large contracts only when confident and be fully aware of the need for safety and professionalism.
So, as you can see from these few examples, there are numerous ways to earn extra income using a vehicle and running your business from home. See how many other home business ideas you can come up with.
Noel suggests a free report with helpful information on buying and selling Kapiti real estate and Kapiti properties.