Your to Buying Selling & Investing

Your Guide
to Renting, Buying, Selling, and Investing in Real Estate

0 / Your Guide to Renting, Buying, Selling, and Investing in Real Estate

Introduction
For most of us, real estate is our
single biggest investment and
main wealth creator. Whether
you are selling the much loved
family home, experiencing the
excitement of buying your very
first home, renting while you are
saving for your first property or
investing in property to build
future wealth, the decisions you
need to make and the challenges
you face require considerable
research and planning. To help
you in the process LJ Hooker
has sponsored this Guide as a
helpful starting point for anyone
considering undertaking a real
estate transaction.

Your Guide to Renting, Buying, Selling, and Investing in Real Estate / 0

Renting Property / page 04
This section contains handy tips for anyone
who is considering or currently renting
property as their first step on the property
wealth ladder – the first step to owning their
first home.

Buying Better / page 06
In this section we cover the research steps
required to find the right type of property for
your needs, ways of financing your dream,
the pitfalls of the home hunt, making an
offer, the rules of buying at auction and the
ultimate move to your new home.

Successful Selling / page 12
Here we cover the selling process, from
selecting a salesperson, establishing a sale
price or auction reserve, presentation of
your home for sale and the auction process.

Intelligent Investing / page 16
For those looking to build wealth by
investing in property we look at what makes
a solid real estate investment, borrowing
for your investment and how to maximise
your returns through the services of a
professional property manager.

Throughout the Guide you
will find handy tips and
checklists plus a Glossary
of Terms to help you cut
through the terminology.

Happy home hunting!


Renting
Property...
For many people, renting
property is their first real
estate experience after
moving from home, the
first step along the road to
acquiring property. Renting
gives you the time you need
to save the deposit for your
first home and to get a feel
of where you want to live.
It is also an ideal time to
build a relationship with
your local agent regarding
help in buying and financing
your first property.


Renting Property

Finding a rental property Tenants obligations
• Decide where you’d like to live • You will be required to sign a lease
• Drive around or walk the area to be sure • Alert the agent in writing of any prior
damage to the property before moving
• Decide on how much rent you can afford
in so you will not be held liable
• Don’t forget other costs like water rates
• Pay a rental bond
and electricity
• Pay the rent on time
• Use online search services such as
myljhooker.com • Pay for any agreed outgoings such as
water usage
• Get to the paper early to plan your visits
and calls to agents • Keep the property in good order
• Check if pets are allowed • Provide access to the managing agent
for agreed property inspections
• Check connections such as phone
and cable • Conform to local council regulations such
as noise, garbage collection, etc
• Check access to public transport

Tenant entitlements What to do if
there is a problem
• Check details of the lease such as
who pays water rates • Contact your property manager immediately

• Check landlords obligation to make • Make sure you have all emergency
essential repairs regarding plumbing, numbers handy for repairs and assistance
electricity, water heater, etc • Know your neighbours as you may need
• Check Department of Fair Trading their help
web sites for helpful information
• Make sure your bond is lodged with the
appropriate rental bond board and you
have a receipt


Better
Buying...
Your home will probably be the
most important and expensive
purchase you will ever make.
In this section we look at how
to plan for, find and enjoy the
home of your dreams.


Better Buying

The right
property for you
The two key questions to ask yourself • Consider if you are prepared to renovate;
when considering a new home are if so, the worst house in the best street
‘where’ and ‘what’. Where do you want could be a good buy
to live and what type of property do
• Look for at least one special feature;
you want to live in? The old real estate
maybe it is a view, a large backyard,
adage – ‘location, location, location’ – is
a designer interior or original historical
as important a concept today as it has
features
ever been. It is not only more enjoyable
to live in a good area, but it will enhance • The Internet is a great place to start
your property’s value and appeal when your research. Real estate sites
the time comes to sell. such as ljhooker.com offer on-line
inspections with photos of properties
So what makes a good location?
and virtual tours
• Cities, coastal or inner city areas
• Make searching easier by leaving
generally out perform other areas such
details of what you are looking for on
as outlying suburbs or regional areas
myljhooker.com and receive an instant
• The combination of good urban planning email as soon as suitable properties
and natural beauty also result in desirable become available
locations
• If you are looking for something different,
• Consider growth areas with good access visit the Luxury and Lifestyle section
to local facilities and avoid environmental of the ljhooker.com which features
problems such as areas with busy roads properties that embrace idyllic or unique
or noisy factories nearby locations, magnificent landscapes,
majestic interiors or special surrounds
• Once you have decided on your location
the next question is what to buy. Make a • Maps and information about facilities and
list of what is important to you – number services in specific suburbs and regions
of bedrooms, car access, size of land – is available on ljhooker.com – a great
but be prepared to compromise on help if you are moving to an area you
some things don’t know well


Better Buying

What to look for
in a property
When you’re thinking of buying, your • If big changes are needed to make the • Is there any risk of flooding or erosion?
requirements will vary depending on property comfortable, then it’s a good
• How much maintenance work will you
your personal circumstances and on idea to know the costs before you make
need to do – or pay someone else to do?
the sort of property you wish to buy. an offer
You may be looking for a family home, • Are you likely to be bothered by nearby
• Is the house and land suitable for your
a “sea change” property or a holiday farming or orchard work?
stage in life – are there too many stairs, is
home. Once you have found the
the garden too steep? • Are there any industries in the area that
property of your dreams, you may
could affect you?
want to pause for a while and reflect Then think about the detail:
before making an offer or signing on • Will you still have easy access to your
the dotted line. • Does the house have enough bedrooms?
family, friends, work and recreation?
Consider the following checklist: • Are you happy with the garden – or
• What will be the long term impact of
its potential?
• Before you decide on anything do you corrosive sea air?
have your loan approved? • Will you have good access to the
facilities you need such as schools,
• Will you enjoy living in the
neighbourhood?
doctor, medical centres and shops? Tips for buying
• Are there enough bathrooms? off the Internet
• Is the house sound? If you have any
doubts at all, hire building and pest • Is there enough garage space? Is the Always confirm property details with
inspectors to check – this can be garage accessible from inside the house? the salesperson
arranged by visiting ljhooker.com • Will you have problems with traffic If you cannot view the property ask
• Is it in an area likely to hold resale value or noise? a friend to visit it on your behalf and
or benefit from capital growth? ask the salesperson to send additional
• Is the kitchen serviceable? photos and details on the property and
• Are there any long-term costs or issues • Is it safe for your family, eg children, the neighbourhood
such as body corporate fees, jointly the elderly or disabled? Research the local area – transport,
owned driveways?
• Is it suitable for pets? shops, schools etc. – check out the
• What type of Title is the property? Is it Locality Guides on ljhooker.com
Torrens Title, Company Title, Strata Title, • Are you happy with the
building’s security? Ensure you have full pest and building
or some other? Ask your solicitor to
inspections carried out by qualified
advise on the Title
• Check under the house – is it dry? inspectors – this can be arranged by
• Does the entire house, including visiting ljhooker.com
• Is the block well drained?
alterations, have the required
If negotiating by email, make sure
Council permits? For “sea and tree change” properties
everyone involved has your email
or holiday properties:
• Is it built for the climate? Is it insulated? address – you don’t want an offer
Will it be warm in winter, cool in summer? Many of these questions will be the lost in cyberspace!
same as above but if you are buying in
• Have you asked your local council
a rural or coastal area, you may wish to
about planning issues like the possibility
consider other practical issues, such as:
of any big developments planned or
construction of new roads nearby? • Is there a good water supply?


Better Buying

Financing your dream
• How much you can afford? As a rule of
thumb, mortgage lenders will normally
lend about three and a half times your
gross taxable income. The figure will
vary depending on your living expenses
and other debts. However, this figure
combined with your deposit will give you
a good idea of your safe limit
• Confirm your limit with your loan
consultant or a lender before you start
looking at properties
• How much deposit will you need? Most
lenders will lend up to 80% of the value
of a property. If you need to borrow more
than this you may be required to take
out mortgage insurance, which insures
the lender against a borrower defaulting,
however, remember the borrower is still
liable for all the money owing to the lender
plus costs associated with defaulting
• When looking for the loan that will suit you
best, it’s always wise to seek professional
assistance. LJ Hooker Financial Will your mortgage
Services can provide professional advice really work for you?
on the mortgage that best meets your
needs…for more information and other Today, there are hundreds of different • Saves you the inconvenience and
helpful advice visit ljhooker.com mortgages on offer but how do you confusion of shopping around
know which one is best for you
• In addition to the deposit you will need • Help with property investment finance
– which one best suits your individual
funds for legal costs, stamp duty and circumstances, now and in the future? • Help with bridging and low doc loans
incidentals such as the costs associated LJ Hooker Financial Services can find
• Pre-approved finance and pre-
with moving house the loan that’s right for you!
qualification to indicate your
• Australia’s first online moving service, • LJ Hooker Financial Services can take borrowing ability
LJ Hooker Move, makes planning, you through a wide range of mortgage
• Professional loan presentation to
costing and arranging your move options and help select the one that’s
prospective lenders
easy…it’s all there on ljhooker.com right for you
• Meet at a time and place convenient
• Arranging connection of essential • If you already have a property loan
for you
services such as gas, electricity, LJ Hooker Financial Services can
telephone and cable…LJ Hooker compare your loan with other lenders To arrange an obligation free consultation
Connect can do all this for you free to check your existing lender is at no cost to you please visit ljhooker.com
of charge via ljhooker.com providing you with the best on offer or contact your local LJ Hooker office.


Better Buying

The home hunt International Customer
Now you have set your priorities – you Referral Network
know where you want to buy and you LJ Hooker can make it easy to find
have negotiated your mortgage – now the right home for you through our
it’s time to start the search. International Customer Referral
• A good starting place is the local Network of over 00 offices across
newspaper or main newspaper Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia,
supplement China, Papua New Guinea, Fiji and
India working harder for you.
• Major Internet sites including ljhooker.com
(Australia’s leading agent web site) and One call can put you in contact with the
homehound.com.au make it easier to LJ Hooker office in your chosen area, as
find the right property well as providing local maps and lots of
other helpful information.
• Other key sources of information are
local real estate agents and it’s wise to Call 100 1 1.
visit some offices in the areas you have
chosen to check out the window displays
and talk to the agents Making an offer
• By checking the newspapers, web sites When you have found your dream home
and agency windows you will determine and all the checks are complete and
if the type of property you are looking for acceptable, it is time to make an offer
in your chosen area is affordable or not even if the property is going to auction.
in your price range. If prices are too high If you choose to wait until auction
you may have to lower your expectations day, be aware someone else may
or consider another area make a pre-auction offer that could
• Once you are ready, be prepared to look be accepted.
at a lot of different properties. It may take • When making an offer you will find
time to find what you want dealing through an agent is the easiest
• If you are serious about a property make approach. It takes much of the emotion
sure you go back a number of times – at out of the transaction for both you and myljhooker.com
different times of the day and night the vendor
myljhooker.com is designed to save
• When you have found what you want • If you have done your research you will your valuable time. Once you register
it is time to get expert advice. Have the know how much you can afford to offer on myljhooker.com you will receive
contracts checked by your solicitor or and what is a fair and reasonable price regular emails of available rental
settlement agent and make sure the pest for the property properties or properties for sale
and building inspections are undertaken (this matching your criteria as soon as they
• You may be tempted to make a very low
can be arranged by visiting ljhooker.com). are placed on our website!
offer in an attempt to grab a bargain but
If there is a problem these checks will help others may also be making offers and if How do I join?
you make an informed decision about these are higher you could miss out
the property All you have to do is visit ljhooker.com
• If you really want the property make and click on myljhooker.com – we simply
• Once you find your dream home don’t sure your offer is realistic and in line with ask for your email address and you create
wait or you may miss out! current market value your own password. We do the rest.


Better Buying

Buying at auction Moving in
Attending an auction can be daunting can bid, knowing the Auctioneer will only Once the sale has settled (is complete) it
experience for first time bidders. A good have a maximum of one bid on behalf of is time to move in and the key with any
tip is to attend some local auctions prior the vendor and if used, will be declared as move is the removalist.
to the one you will be bidding at to get a a bid on behalf of the vendor at the time
• When selecting a removalist get at least
feel for the process. it is made
three quotes and remember the cheapest
• An auction may be held in an Auction • Bids may come from people representing is not always the best
Room or on site at the property buyers who are not present. This is
• Check how many people will be allocated
allowed providing the auctioneer has
• In some states when you attend the to your move – the more the better
been advised
auction you will need to register with the
• To ease the stress of moving you can
auctioneer, giving your name, address • Buyers can speed up the tempo of
plan, get quotes, cost and arrange it all
and telephone number. You will be an auction by making big jumps in
through LJ Hooker Move – Australia’s
required to show proof of identity such their bidding – say from $250,000 to
first online moving service at ljhooker.com
as a driver’s licence, passport or credit $280,000 in one bid – or slow down the
card, but be assured your information is auction by bidding in small increments • Connecting essential services such
protected by privacy laws as electricity, gas, water, phone and
• Steady, firm and unemotional bidding is
cable services can also be arranged
• Once you have registered you will be often the best tactic – set your limit and
via ljhooker.com through LJ Hooker
issued with an identification number that stick to it
Connect
you must display when bidding
• Once bidding reaches the reserve price
• Ensure your move is adequately insured
• Only registered bidders or their and the property is to be sold, the
– check if your own insurance policy
representatives will have the opportunity highest bidder will be the buyer
gives removal coverage and select
to buy at auction in these States.
• If you are the highest bidder, you must a removal company with full
Legislation in all States in relation to
be ready to pay the 10% deposit and comprehensive insurance
bidding at auction is under review, so if
you are then legally bound to buy
you have any queries you should discuss • When packing, make sure you mark
the property
the process with your agent boxes clearly with the rooms they will
• If you default you risk losing the be going to
• The auctioneer will present each
10% deposit
property for sale then invite bids • Give the removalists a copy of your new
from the audience • If the reserve price is not reached there home’s floor plan so they are aware of
is still an advantage in being the highest which room is which
• LJ Hooker has adopted a total “People
bidder, as you will then have first right of
Friendly” Auction process which means • A move is a great opportunity to clear
negotiation with the vendor
all buyers bidding at auctions conducted out things you no longer use or need.
by an Accredited LJ Hooker Auctioneer A garage sale is a good idea, or donate
your unwanted possessions to a charity
• On moving day you may consider having
Tips for buying at auction your smaller children cared for as the change
in routine can be unnerving for them
Before bidding at auction make sure you Don’t bid for any property unless you
attend two or three other auctions to get have obtained and accepted all legal, • It’s important to make your young
a feel for process pest and building inspection reports children feel at ease quickly, so set up
their rooms first
Set your price range so your heart won’t Don’t be afraid to bid aggressively for
rule your head at bidding time the property – you want to eliminate • Once you have settled in it is a good idea
other potential buyers to make yourself known to your neighbours
Take some support with you to the
and begin enjoying your new home
auction, preferably someone with a Expect the unexpected – prices at
strong head to stop you bidding beyond auction can shoot up very quickly • Remember to redirect your mail through
your range Australia Post before you move


Successful
Selling...
When you decide to sell your
home you will have to deal
with a combination of emotion
and hard financial decisions.
The following information will
help you balance both and
align them with market reality.


Successful Selling

Selecting the right agent Your personalised
• Using a qualified local agent to sell your marketing plan
home is the first step towards obtaining In today’s competitive market merely • Make homebuyers’ faces light up
the result you desire…the best price in placing a sign at the front of your home – natural light is best, so open curtains to
the shortest possible time and a photo in an office window is not let in the light and the view. Make sure
• A professional agent can give you an enough to ensure the best buyer is found. all your electric light bulbs are working
accurate picture of the state of the market, • Professional agents like LJ Hooker offer • Clean out and clean up – clean out
which will help you price your property specialised multi-faceted marketing all your clutter, less clutter gives the
realistically. They can advise you on the programs to capture buyer interest from impression of more room
best way to sell your home and will develop across the road, across the country and
a detailed marketing plan for your property • Pets may inhibit buyers – when you
across the world
have an open home ensure carpets
• Your agent should not only understand • The most effective marketing plans and furnishings are free of pet hair
the property market, they also need to utilises a combination of proven and smells – take your pets for a walk
understand people – as Sir Leslie Hooker marketing tools including signage, local while buyers inspect your home
always said, “Real estate is not about advertising, direct mail, Internet listing,
houses, it is about people” and window displays to maximise the
opportunity of attracting the right buyer
• Ask your agent what they think will most
for your property
Tips for choosing
attract a buyer to your property
your agent
• Seek their advice on improvements you
could make to increase the chances of a Preparing to sell Does the salesperson have a proven
successful sale – particularly making your track record?
Taking a little time to prepare your
home more environmentally friendly Does the salesperson work for a
home for sale can make a significant
• Using the right agent means you have a difference to the sale price. Following reputable trusted agency?
partner in the selling process, someone are a few tips on preparing your home
Do you have a good rapport with
with the local knowledge and expertise for sale with many more at ljhooker.com.
the salesperson?
to make the selling experience an easier
• Your first step is to walk outside – how
one for you Does the salesperson have a good
does the outside of your home present?
knowledge of the local market?
If a buyer drives by will they stop and
Setting the sale price take a second look? Is the written material professionally
• Check the roof and guttering and prepare prepared?
Be careful not to choose your agent
based only on the selling price they your garden so it will look its best for the Does the salesperson/Agency have
quote – you may be sorely disappointed. first open home the support of a large professional
• Purchasing a home is very much an • Clean houses make a tidy sum – you and trusted network?
emotional decision, hence opinions need to remember that once your Does the Agency have the ability
on price will vary home is on the market you are living to present your home to a wide
in a showroom marketplace using an international
• A professional agent will use a systematic
approach to determining a price, • Ensure it is always immaculately clean referral service and a proven
factoring in prices of local homes that for open homes – one unmade bed can web site?
have recently sold, houses that are unmake a sale
Will the salesperson provide
currently for sale, the state of the market • Your home’s two best selling points – the on-going communication of the
and their own knowledge of buyers kitchen and bathroom are the two rooms sale’s progress?
expectations in the market place that buyers look at the most closely.
Do you feel you will be able to work
• The question you should ask a prospective Ensure they look their best
closely with the salesperson and that
agent is not “how much can I get for my
he/she will do their best for you?
house” but “what will you do to get the
best price for my property?” Is the salesperson well presented?


Successful Selling

Method of sale Promotion is vital
Generally speaking there are two When you first list your property for • The deposit is held on your behalf in the
most common methods of sale used sale, your agent will discuss a marketing agency’s Trust Account
for residential property; private treaty plan with you. The campaign will target
• Prior to settlement the property remains
whereby a property is marketed with a different sections of the market – from
your responsibility, so it is important to
price and sale by auction – marketing the potential buyer in the same street to
ensure you maintain your home insurance
without a price (legislation in some people on the other side of the world.
during this period
states requires the agent to provide a
• The agent will do their background work
price estimate or range when taking a • Once the contract is signed the process
including taking quality photos, taking
property to auction). of transfer can begin. You may use the
other salespeople to inspect the property,
services of a solicitor or conveyancing
• Private treaty sales can inhibit competitive and contacting their database of
company such as LJ Hooker
forces by only attracting buyers from one possible buyers
Conveyancing in NSW or a settlement
specific price range
• Marketing tools can include a sign in agent such as LJ Hooker Settlements
• With Private Treaty, when a price is front of the property, a sign in the real in WA to handle the transfer on your
quoted it is more often the case that the estate agency’s window, newspaper behalf – you can contact either through
price is negotiated downwards and magazine advertising, and of course ljhooker.com
promotion through Australia’s No.1 agent
• Auctions can often produce a better • As part of the transfer process,
website – ljhooker.com
result in less time because the auction arrangements will be made for the
process is designed to source more • When selling by auction, the auction date balance of the purchase price to be paid
buyers and identify the most is usually set three to four weeks ahead as directed by you to your bank account
genuine buyers and the property will be marketed heavily or to any party or account you nominate
for those few weeks • Settlement day is the date when the
• At auction sellers can be confident
the true market value of their home • On auction day, all potential buyers balance of monies owing less costs
is established gather in one place. If they can’t be there are paid, keys are handed over and the
in person they’re in phone contact with property then becomes the responsibility
• The auction method is designed to
someone representing them of the purchaser
produce faster results because people
who are genuinely interested in the home • Check with your agent to ensure all
know they must make their move quickly possible potential buyers will be present
to buy it, whether at auction or prior at the auction so you be can confident
of the opportunity to achieve the best
Rewards for selling
• Auctions negate the frustration of
indecision or protracted bargaining possible price for your property through LJ Hooker
When you list and sell your property*
• Auction can achieve the best price for
a home as buyers bid up from the It’s sold! – Now what? exclusively through any LJ Hooker
office, you can earn either:
opening bid
• When you sell at auction there is normally
20,000 Qantas
• The winning bidder must be able no cooling off period – the contracts are
Frequent Flyer points or
to sign the contract and pay the signed and the deposit paid on the day
deposit immediately 20,000 Visa Reward Points or
• A 10% deposit is normally paid by the
• Of all the selling methods auction has Buyer/s with the balance due on the
*Conditions Apply so talk to your LJ Hooker Agent
the shortest settlement time agreed settlement date


Successful Selling

The auctioneer’s job
We’ve all seen the drama of an auction
on TV – the auctioneer with his quick-
fire speech, waving hands, pointing
finger. But what does he actually do?
• Essentially, his role is to control a public
negotiation process where potential
buyers are all competing to buy
a property
• The auctioneer has to make sure the
process takes place in an orderly and
legal manner
• While there is often an element of
showmanship in the role, with humorous
asides and jokes, the Auctioneer must
always conduct himself professionally
• He will encourage bidders to go higher
but at the end of the day, each bidder
decides how much they are prepared
to pay and the seller decides whether
they’re prepared to sell at that price
• All bids must be acknowledged and
recorded, often by assistants, so there
are no misunderstandings over who has
bought the property and for how much
• A good auctioneer can read body
language and create an atmosphere
of fun and entertainment to take the
pressure off a very serious process
• They know how to prevent disputes and
how to handle any problems that can
occasionally occur


Intelligent
Investing...
A balanced investment
portfolio should always
include property. Choosing
the right investment property
gives you the potential for
income and future capital
gain to increase your
person wealth.


Intelligent Investing

What makes a solid real
estate investment?
• To maximise your return on an investment • Homes close to schools, shopping • Research is the key and the Internet is
property, choose wisely centres, and public transport, or located a good starting point
in fashionable suburbs, tend to be
• Give yourself some time to watch market • Organisations, such as LJ Hooker
more desirable and may command
cycles and movements in property values Financial Services will search the
higher rents
before putting yourself in the hands of market to find the right loan for you
the experts • When buying for investment, view
• Whatever loan you choose, you need
properties with regard to their potential
• Most people choose residential property to consider the tax implications such as
for capital growth and their attractiveness
investment ahead of other kinds of minimising your tax through negative
to tenants
property because they are familiar with it gearing. Where the cost of holding the
and feel comfortable investing in it • Focus on areas with a good track record property, including the interest charges
of capital growth. Capital growth tends to on the loan, exceeds the income it
• However, it may also be worthwhile run hand in hand with good infrastructure produces is tax deductible against your
considering a commercial or industrial other assessable income
property investment. This is a specialist • Look for streetscapes that are
area and advice should be sought from a architecturally consistent rather than a • Property tax depreciation is available
specialist commercial agent mix ‘n’ match of styles to any property owner who obtains
assessable income by way of rent or
• The secret to regular investment income operates a business from a property.
is a property that is highly sought after
Borrowing for A tax depreciation schedule can be
by tenants so choose an investment your investment arranged via ljhooker.com
property with a view to tenants’ wants
Finding the right loan for your • Always discuss your borrowing and
and needs
investment is just as important as potential investment strategies with
• Classic style properties of quality finding the right property. There are your accountant or financial advisor
construction generally hold their many options open to you. Whether before proceeding
appeal longer you want an investment for negative
• Consider costs associated with loan
gearing, capital growth or retirement
• Properties with security features such as application fees, mortgage insurance,
income, loans are available to satisfy
door and window screens, alarms and solicitor or conveyancer fees as well a
both your long and short term
lock up garages are very popular pre-purchase inspection reports and
investment strategies.
Stamp Duty
• Off-street car parking is a bonus, • Your loan may have fixed or variable
particularly in inner city areas interest rates, it may be interest only or
• In hotter climates there is a high demand
principal plus interest Rewarding landlords
for air conditioning • You may include a credit facility to allow Earn 10,000 Qantas Frequent Flyer
you to draw on the money points* when you appoint LJ Hooker
• While the aesthetic appeal of a home can
affect the rental value and vacancy rate, • If you have equity in your current home as your exclusive Property
the location of the property will also affect you may wish to use this to borrow Management Agent.
its profitability against for your investment property *Conditions do apply so please confirm with your
chosen LJ Hooker Agent


Intelligent Investing

Professional property
management
Once you have invested in a property • Inspect all major maintenance work Insurance protection
it is important you maintain both the authorised, prior to payment
property and the relationship with It is essential you have adequate insurance
• Pay property accounts and statutory for your investment property that covers
your tenant. You may choose to do
charges as directed, including water contents, public liability, loss of rent and
this yourself or appoint a professional
rates, council rates, body corporate fees, tenant damage. Your LJ Hooker Property
Property Investment Manager who will:
insurances, caretakers, maintenance Investment Manager can provide advice on
• Advertise the property to prospective contractors, etc all your investment property insurance needs.
tenants in an efficient manner to minimise
• Prepare applications and serve notice
property vacancy
to the Tenant and the Residential
• Personally interview and reference check Tenancy Tribunal or Small Claims Court
all prospective tenants in compliance with relevant legislation
Customer for life
and/or the Tenancy Agreement When you appoint LJ Hooker to sell
• Provide effective follow-up of any
your property you can rest assured your
rental arrears • If necessary, provide representation
satisfaction is guaranteed because of our
at the Residential Tenancies Tribunal
• Undertake rental reviews and Tenancy commitment to live up to our promise
/ Small Claims Court
Agreement renewals that when it comes to real estate, nobody
• Advise you in writing of the approaching does it better. With LJ Hooker you are
• Have all Tenancy Agreements in writing,
end of a lease and vacating tenants not forgotten after your property is sold
incorporating all the terms and conditions
because you will become a valued member
of the Tenancy • Inspect the property at the end of
of our ‘Customer for Life’ program which
each Tenancy and arrange finalisation
• Lodge the rental bond with the is designed to maintain contact with you
of the Bond
appropriate agency on matters relating to real estate, special
• Advise you of relevant market and offers and wealth creation. This is our way
• Have the tenant sign a written report on
legislation changes of saying ‘Thank You’ for the trust you have
the condition of the property prior
placed with us and another good reason
to tenancy • Advise you on property insurance matters
for you to say
• Provide a monthly statement with If you appoint a professional Property
‘Thank you Mr Hooker!’
rental monies Investment Manager such as LJ Hooker
you will be asked to enter into an
• Notify you about necessary and
agreement that covers the agency’s
preventative maintenance
fees, timing of reporting and inspections,
• Conduct a routine inspection of the payments, expenditure on maintenance Recognising A1 tenants
premises every six months and provide and repairs and rent reviews. With a
a written report after 12 months (unless professional Property Investment Manager The LJ Hooker A1 Tenant Card
a report is required after the six monthly like LJ Hooker in place you can confidently Programme is our way of recognizing and
inspection) hand over many of the worries associated keeping quality tenants and is proof that
with being a landlord. You can trust them these tenants take good care of rental
• Have a team of maintenance contractors property and pay their rent on time. It’s
to keep your investment running on a
on immediate notice another way LJ Hooker gives landlords
business-like basis to realise the best
returns available, with the least hassle. peace of mind knowing their investment
is being looked after.


Glossary of terms
This glossary has been compiled to Deposit – Normally 10% of the purchase Passed In – A property will be passed in
help explain some of the more common price, which is paid by the buyer into at Auction if it does not meet the set
terms used in the real estate industry the Agent’s Trust Account at the time of Reserve Price.
in Australia. For a complete Glossary of exchanging contracts.
Reserve Price – The minimum price
Terms featuring other Industry language,
Exchange of Contracts – When signed the seller has specified they will accept
please visit ljhooker.com
copies of the Contract of Sale are at Auction.
Agent – A representative of an agency physically swapped between the seller
Settlement – A date is set for completion
authorised to act on behalf of others in the and purchaser.
of the sale. At this point the balance of the
sale, purchase, letting or management of
Gazumping – Where the seller agrees purchase price is paid and ownership of
real property.
to the sale of the property but before the the property transfers from the seller to
Auction – A public sale where the property Contract of Sale is signed the property is the purchaser.
is sold to the highest bidder – on the sold to another buyer.
Stamp Duty – A state government tax
provision that the reserve price for the
Highest Bidder – The person who posts on financial transactions. In the sale of real
property has been met or exceeded.
the highest bid at an Auction will purchase estate it is calculated according to the sale
Bond – Upon signing a Tenancy the property provided the reserve price has value. It also applies to the mortgage value.
Agreement, a tenant must lodge a bond been met or passed, or failing that has the
Strata Title – The system of Title that
(usually the equivalent of four weeks rent) first right to negotiate with the Vendor when
applies to units, apartments and some
with the Rental Bond Board or equivalent the property is passed in.
town houses. It applies to the subdivision
legislative body.
of air space rather than land – you own
Interest – The amount of money charged
Capital Gain – The monetary gain you part of the building, and a share in the land
by a lender on the amount borrowed.
obtain when an asset is sold for a higher as part of the Body Corporate.
price than originally paid for it. Investment Property – Property
Torrens Title System – The system of
purchased for the purpose of earning an
Certificate of Title – A document Title administration that applies to most
income and capital gain.
identifying the ownership of land. It shows land in Australia.
the dimensions of the land, the owner, and Lease – A document that grants a person/s
Transfer – A document registered at
whether there are any mortgages or other tenancy of a property. A specified period
the Land Titles Office and noted on the
encumbrances. It is held by the lender as and terms and conditions apply.
Certificate of Title, which, when registered,
security for a loan.
Mortgage – A legal document containing verifies change of ownership of a property.
Contract of Sale – A legal document that the terms and conditions of funding the
Vendor – The party who offers a property
sets out all the terms and conditions the mortgage on the property and secured
for sale.
seller and purchaser have agreed on. over the property.
Yield – The income gained from a
Conveyance – The legal process involved Mortgagee – the person or institution
property. The yield is usually expressed
in transferring the ownership of property. lending money on a property.
as a percentage of the value or cost of
Company Title – a title of ownership Mortgagor – person or entity liable for the investment.
more commonly associated with older borrowing and repaying the money and the
apartment buildings. interest to the lender.

The LJ Hooker difference How can we help you?
• LJ Hooker is Australia’s best known, Your local LJ Hooker office is committed
most trusted, most often chosen real to looking after you throughout the
estate company1 real estate cycle – from beginning to
end and beyond – with a wide range
• LJ Hooker sells a property every of helpful real estate related services
3.8 minutes2 under the banner of ServicePlus which
• LJ Hooker rents a property every are designed to smooth your selling or
2 minutes3 buying process.

• ljhooker.com is Australia’s No.1 • LJ Hooker Market Estimates provided
Agent website4 to prospective Vendors obligation FREE
from any LJ Hooker office
• Over 700 offices across Australia, New
• LJ Hooker Professional Property
Zealand, Indonesia, China, Papua New
Management Services designed to
Guinea, Fiji, India, United Arab Emirates,
maximise the return on your investment
Vanuatu and Vietnam ready to work
available through your local LJ Hooker Office
harder for you
• LJ Hooker Financial Services can
• Access LJ Hooker’s International Referral find the property loan that’s right for
Service with just one phone call your needs from the hundreds of loans
• LJ Hooker’s Customer Service on offer through their extensive leading
Centre provides all the local lender panel and they can also assist with
information you need mortgage protection insurance

• LJ Hooker’s exclusive signboard • LJ Hooker Conveyancing (NSW VIC)
range guarantees your property can look after all your conveyancing
high buyer visibility requirements – exclusive to the service is
Settlement Tracker that keeps you updated
• Earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points, ANZ on the progress of your settlement 24/7
Rewards Visa or Business One points automatically by SMS/email
when you list and sell through LJ Hooker4
• LJ Hooker Settlements (WA ) can look
• Earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points4 for after all your conveyancing requirements
each new residential property when you – exclusive to the service is Settlement
appoint LJ Hooker as your Property Tracker that lets you access the progress
Management Agent of your settlement 24/7 and automatically
• Earn Qantas Frequent Flyer points4 when keeps you updated by SMS/email
you exclusively list and sell, or lease your throughout the process
Commercial or Industrial property with • Home, Contents Motor Insurance
LJ Hooker Commercial available through our insurance partners
• LJ Hooker Financial Services will find the who can protect your valuable assets with
property loan that’s right for you a range of specific insurance packages
• LJ Hooker Connect is convenient a
• LJ Hooker is the National Sponsor of
one call FREE service to arrange the
Cystic Fibrosis Australia – raising money
disconnection or connection of essential
to help find a cure for this life threatening
utilities including water, gas, electricity as
genetic condition
well as the Internet and PayTV
• LJ Hooker is actively involved in the
• LJ Hooker Move is Australia’s first FREE
communities we serve online moving solution that makes it easy
• The LJ Hooker After Sales Service to compare removal service providers
programme monitors your level of and fully cost and plan your relocation
satisfaction in dealing with LJ Hooker • The Property Inspection Brokers can
and ensures you become a valued provide a range of pest and building
Customer for Life inspection services through their
Australia-wide network of fully licensed
These are just some of the reasons
and accredited inspectors
why, every day, so many people like
you throughout Australia are happy to • BMT ASSOC is our preferred supplier
say...“Thank you Mr. Hooker!” of Tax Depreciation Schedules for
property investors to assist them to claim
the maximum tax deductions relating to
their property investments
1
Newspoll National Brand Track 1998-2007
2
Australasian Sales 12 months to end August 2007 Please take a moment to consider which
3
Australasian Lettings 12 months to end August 2007 of these services would make life easier
4
Nielsen Net Ratings
5
Conditions Apply
for you then discuss the service you are
interested in with your local LJ Hooker
Agent or visit ljhooker.com

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