Make the most of the long weekend...

We all look forward to some time off and next weekend provides the perfect opportunity to have a look at some great properties in the Hawkesbury whilst enjoying this fabulous spring weather.

We know that it can be difficult to get around and look at everything so why not make the most of the extra day off and come to the open homes we have scheduled. Go to www.irisproperty.com.au for details.

Whether you are in the market for land, rural properties, townhouses, family homes or investment properties we have it.

Call today to see how we can help you find the perfect place.

Call        02 45677254
Email     info@irisproperty.com.au

So much to do in the Hawkesbury

Print by Julie Hickson on display at Sassafras Creek Gallery Kurrajong

If you are looking for great things to see and do over the next few weekends look no further than the Hawkesbury region.

There is so much on at the moment that you will be spoiled for choice. We have all our regular fantastic events such as the Hawkesbury Harvest Farmers Markets, fresh produce stalls and cafes along the Bells Line of Rd, fine dining at historic Lochiel Cafe, the village atmosphere of Kurrajong and much more.

As an added bonus there are a number of current and upcoming events worth marking on your calendar -

* The Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens are hosting their Waratah Festival from 22 Sep - 7 Oct. There are flower displays, guided tours of the gardens, plant sales, growing advice and art displays. All of this comes with free entry and makes for a great day out.

* There are plenty of galleries open with new exhibitions available. The Hawkesbury Regional Gallery, located in Windsor, is currently showing contemporary printmaking till 14 October. The Purple Moon Gallery at Freemans Reach has works by indigenous artists and Sassafras Creek in Kurrajong has two new exhibitions scheduled for the next couple of months which are definitely worth a look.

* If music is more your thing then check out the Sydney Blues and Roots Festival being held in the Hawkesbury from 25 - 28 Oct featuring great artists such as Lanie Lane, Mia Dyson and Chase the sun.

* For sports lovers why not come along to one of the race days at the Hawkesbury Race Club or have a look at the Windsor Spring Carnival of the Windsor Polo Club being held on 23 Sep.

There is so much to do and so much to enjoy. Now you can see why we love it here.

Selling in spring time.

Spring is here and with the warming of the weather comes a rise in real estate activity.

People are happier to be out and about looking at property when the sun is shining and homes are looking their best so if you're in the market to sell your home why not look at our handy tips to getting your home primped and ready for action.

1. Give everything a good spring clean - make sure windows are sparkling and your home is clutter free.

2. This is the perfect time to spruce up the garden. Clean garden paths and outdoor entertaining areas. Mulch garden beds and mow lawns. Think about planting some annuals for spring/summer colour and appeal.

3. Talk to us about a market appraisal and free consultation where we can guide you about ways to improve the saleability of your home. Small improvements can make all the difference and mean extra dollars in your pocket. Invest an hour with us and reap the benefits.

Step back in time - Hawkesbury history

The Hawkesbury region was one of the first colonial settlements with landholders arriving in 1789. By 1794 the farming and agricultural aspect of the Hawkesbury was underway with settlers being allocated 30 acre lots in order to feed the colony. To this day the area is known as one of the richest food basins in NSW.

The town of Windsor is well known for it's historic buildings - The Macquarie Arms Hotel (1815), St Matthews Catholic Church (1840), Windsor Court House (1822) , St Matthews Anglican Church (1817) and Thompson Square are all monuments to the regions past. There are many original homes, many from the 1840's, which are lovingly lived in to this day.
The Hawkesbury Regional Gallery and Library, located in Windsor,  is a great source of information for those interested in the history of the region.

In the neighbouring towns of Pitt Town, Kurrajong, Richmond, Ebenezer, Wilberforce and Rouse Hill there are plenty of examples of historic homes and buildings to delight any enthusiast.

The Hawkesbury Historical Society is a treasure trove of information and regularly runs information nights and re-enactment days. Tel 02 723007 for more information.

iRIS Property 02 45677254      www.irisproperty.com.au

Happy days at iRIS Property

It's been a busy day at iRIS Property. Plenty of enquiries, some fantastic new listings - watch out for upcoming newsletters to be the first to hear of these great homes on offer - and one of the most enjoyable parts of our job ... settlements !

We are heading out this afternoon to deliver keys and champagne to our excited purchasers. It's fantastic to have been able to help people secure a home, increase their wealth and security and to watch them start out on a new leg of their journey. We wish them all well and hope that they enjoy their new homes.

Another great aspect of today is knowing that our vendors, who have been caught up in the often challenging task of having a home on the market, can now bank their cheques and get moving on finding their next home, hopefully after having a well earned rest for a little while.

We thank you for trusting us to help you with these life changing transactions and look forward to working with you again soon.

iRIS Property   www.irisproperty.com.au
tel 02 45677254

Celebrating the launch of our new website !!!!

New iRIS Property Website ! We are very happy to announce the arrival of our latest website upgrade to provide an easier and more pleasant browsing experience. Just launched about an hour ago, we have added great new functionality and feature items such as mapping, clients can now access directions to a property directly from their smartphone or tablet, we have new improved image carousels,- improved ,easier and more comprehensive search functions, plus -social media share functions , and lots more detail improvements and changes ! Naturally we have retained the sleek and refined general look that we get so much great feedback about ! Jump on the new site and have a look- www.irisproperty.com.au

Tips for getting it right in property investment.

     Get your finances in order.

Before you even begin to look at investment opportunities it is important to determine how much you are able to borrow, how much it's going to cost and if you can afford it. This may seem like basic information but it's important to get your ducks in a row so you know what is in your price range and you don't waste time looking at properties you simply cant afford.

This process usually starts by speaking to a mortgage broker. Not only are they typically best placed to suggest how much debt you have access to, they can often also secure you the best terms for your finance and structure the debt in a way which saves you money in the long run and optimises your tax breaks.

       Get us involved from the start.

Real estate agents 'live and breathe' property - building and maintaining a relationship with an expert agent can often be of more benefit to you than you first thought. We have been doing this for a long time and we want you to take advantage of our expertise.

Once we know what you're looking for we can act on that information and let you know about great properties as they arise. This process often sees investors snap up investments efficiently and at competitive prices.

       Get while the getting's good

Just like any sort of investment, property investors try to secure assets while markets are down in order to make great returns as markets recover.

We have plenty of well priced, good quality properties available and investors are currently in a good position to secure relatively cheap finance with more interest rate cuts likely. 

These factors combined with Australia's strong economic situation and "ready to lend" banks provide for fantastic opportunities for financial growth and security.

       Location, Location, Location

While a landlord can renovate a house to make it more attractive to tenants, the house itself can never be moved  - making the 'location, location, location' adage as true today as it ever was.

Proximity to schools, transport  and shopping centers are all key factors to consider when chosing your investment property.  

Call us today to see how we can help you create a secure and strong financial future.

iRIS Property - www.irisproperty.com.au

Tel : 02 45677254

What's your idea of a great family home ??

There are lots of factors to consider when looking for the perfect family home.

How many bedrooms do you need? Is there plenty of sun and light ? Do you need an entertaining area? Want a great garden for kids to play in ? Room for guests or extended family ?

We have just the property that ticks all the boxes .

This beautiful home in Bowen Mountain has been stylishly renovated and is on a huge double block in Bowen Mountain. It has four bedrooms with a large landscaped garden. Perfect for kids.
The kitchen is lovely and welcoming and this home also hits the spot with aircon and a slow combustion fire, gorgeous bathrooms, music studio/gym, separate indoor and outdoor entertaining areas.

There is nothing left for you to do except move in and enjoy.

Interested ?  Give us a call - iRIS Property 02 45677254
Here's the link to this property on our website  http://www.irisproperty.com.au/properties/detail/3014

Straight talking

Do you value honesty ?  Would you rather someone tell you what you need to know or what you want to hear ?

At iRIS Property we take honesty seriously. There will never be any shortage of real estate agents willing to tell you what you want to hear in order to get your business. That's why we are different.

When it comes to making astute financial decisions you need to know the facts. We pride ourselves on our straight talking including giving you an accurate assessment of your property. We are proud of our ability to accurately gauge the market value of your investments and of our proven track record in getting the numbers right.

It's human nature to always hope for more. It's also difficult sometimes to hear the truth - especially when this means potentially hearing that your property may be worth less than you think or have been told.

We all know the story of getting a few agents to provide market appraisals and being amazed by the widely varying differences in values. This happens for a couple of reasons :

* Some less than honest operators are simply trying to garner your business when they know the price they have set is not achievable.
* Some simply don't have the knowlege base or skills to accurately assess your property.

When you are told that your property is worth a lot more than is realistically achievable we call this the 'feel good price". Even though it makes you happy in the short term the long term outlook isn't great. At over inflated prices you can expect your property to take longer to sell and to lose the advantage of those first few crucial weeks of interest when your property is new to the market. In the end you will almost certainly sell at the more realistic price we originally gave you.

If you want the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth call us.

Putting the real back in real estate.

iRIS Property - for accuracy and integrity.


www.irisproperty.com.au

Tel : 02 45677254

First home buyers savings accounts.

Buying your first home is a big step. Want some help getting a deposit together ?

Did you know that most banks, credit unions and financial institutions have accounts designed to help you save. These first home owners savings accounts offer generous incentives and are a great way to grow your savings.

There are many benefits which you can make the most of including :

* The government makes a 17% contribution on the first $5500 you deposit each year, this means an extra $935 for you.

* Any interest you earn is tax free.

Some of the conditions of these accounts are :

* You need to save a minimum of $1000 per year for 4 years before you can withdraw the money.

* The maximum amount you can deposit in these accounts is $85000.

*The money must be used for the purchase of a home. If you don't use it for real estate the deposit is added to your superannuation.

For more information see the Australian Taxation Office website :
http://www.ato.gov.au/individuals/content.aspx?menuid=0&doc=/content/00250962.htm&page=1&H1


Call us for help in purchasing your first home. iRIS Property  02 45677254 www.irisproperty.com.au

Looking at lots of properties ???

Searching for the perfect property ??? We all wish for that beautiful home to appear quickly and for some this happens but for the most part we need to be diligent and look at lots of homes before we find the right one.

When you have spent a few weekends looking at lots of different properties it's easy to lose track of things and this is where it can come in handy to have a checklist. Check out this useful home buyers checklist - 

http://advice.realestateview.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Open-For-Inspection-Checklist.pdf

This simple tool can help you compare properties and serve as a way to narrow down the homes which may be suitable for you. 

Need help finding your next home ? Call iRIS Property 02 45677254

www.irisproperty.com.au

Renovating for sale

When renovating for the sale of your property it is important to consider the costs and benefits of any work you plan to do. The last thing you want is to spend a lot of money which you may not be able to recoup in the sale of your property.

The aim of renovation should be to ensure that your property is well maintained and beautifully presented.  These kinds of improvements will always trump the market. Focus on freshness and street appeal rather than major works.

When deciding on the type of renovations you will do consider the following :

* Renovate to give your home a facelift - concentrate on paint, cleaning and freshening the general feel of your home.

* Consider areas which may become points of negotiation for potential purchasers and aim to minimise these eg. chipped tiles, tired kitchen or bathroom.

* Focus on key areas such as the front entrance, gardens, bathroom and kitchen.

* Ensure that you spread your renovation budget so that you can effectively distribute repairs and improvements around your property. The last thing you want is a brand new kitchen drawing attention to a tired bathroom. Improvements in one area can make others areas of your house look worse so aim to generally improve the whole property.

* Keep clours and tones neutral to appeal to the broadest number of prospective buyers.

* Make sure you make use of our skills ! Talk to us before embarking on your improvements. We can advise you on what NEEDS to be done and what is cosmetic only.  We can also help you to avoid overspending and overcapitalising on your property.

Call us today iRIS Property 02 45677254
www.irisproperty.com.au

Looking to rent ? Follow our handy guide to a stress free tenancy

We have all heard reports about how competitive the rental market is at the moment. Sydney rental prices are through the roof and there are plenty of horror stories of people searching for months for a suitable property.

Fortunately for you things are great in the Hawkesbury. Quality of life and cost of living is significantly more affordable and commuting to work is part of everyday life for many people west of the city. So if you're sick of standing in line every weekend to put in your bid on a tiny apartment in the city for $500 a week why not come and have a look at what the Hawkesbury area has to offer.....

Here are some tips to help you find and secure a rental property. By following these tips you can make looking for a home easier and simpler.

* Do some research ! Have a look at available properties in the area you want to live and see what you get for your money. In this way you will have a realistic idea of pricing and the type of property you can afford.

* Consider what you need and want. Look at things like transport, entertainment, shops, proximity to family and friends and the ability to have pets.

* Talk to us about what is available in your area and price range. If we know you are looking for a property we can let you know when homes become available.

* Have all the information you need in order to complete your rental application form eg identification, references, proof of employment.

* Know your rights and responsibilities as a tenant. Follow this link to the Dept of Fair Trading for advice on renting a home....

http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/Tenants_and_home_owners/Renting_a_home.html

iRIS Property
Tel : 02 45677254
www.irisproperty.com.au

Hawkesbury Harvest Farmers Market

Every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month finds stall holders setting up for the Hawkesbury Harvest Markets. The market runs from 8:00am till noon and is held at the Castle Hill Showgrounds.

Be tempted by a wide array of excellent locally sourced products including coffee, farm fresh vegetables, artisan breads, Willowbrae goats cheeses, olive oils, berries, Australian native foods, Bilpin apples, local citrus fruit, cupcakes, pastries and tarts.

Why not make your way to Castle Hill for breakfast and coffee then head up the Bells Line of Rd to the Bilpin local markets which run every Saturday morning from 10 am till noon. Here you will find local apples, pies, jams and preserves alongside locally produced art and craft.

Next stop Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens, entry is free and the gardens are a beautiful place to walk off all those morning indulgences and to take in the wonder of this amazing cool climate garden.

The Hawkesbury area is so beautiful and has so much to offer. When you decide you can't possibly live anywhere else call us. We will help you find the perfect home.

iRIS Property 02 45677254
www.irisproperty.com.au

iRIS Property - Who are we ????

iRIS Property was founded in 2007 by Martin Schoeddert and his wife and business partner, Jeanette.
Canadian born Martin studied a Bachelor of Commerce before embarking on a career in real estate in 1988.

Martin specialises in rural and residential properties and has extensive knowledge of the Hawkesbury and surrounding areas. He is always happy to provide advice and assistance.

Martin and Jeanette founded iRIS Property with the aim of providing fantastic service and getting great results for their clients and have achieved that goal. Many of their clients are people who have bought or sold with them in the past who wouldn't think of dealing with any other agent.

Steven Body of Kurrajong Heights " Martin has helped us with all of our property transactions - if you want someone who will answer your questions honestly, give you reliable information you need to make good choices and get results then iRIS is it "

"We understand what a responsibility it is to look after people's largest assets " Martin Schoeddert - "We aim to help you maximise sales results and returns on your investments"

iRIS Property also provides property management services so can help you find the perfect investment property and then take care of the tenancy details for you.

Martin says that developing open and professional relationships with his clients is what he loves most about his job. Add to that his passion for sharing knowledge and helping people achieve their financial goals and you have the perfect agent.

Contact iRIS Property - 02 45677254   info@irisproperty.com.au   www.irisproperty.com.au

What is the 'Cooling Off' period ????

Cooling Off refers to a period of time, usually about five days, after you have exchanged contracts in which the buyer has the opportunity to get pest and building reports done, ensure financing is in order and generally get ready for the purchase and decide if they wish to definitely proceed with the sale.

During this period the purchaser is able to get out of the contract for any reason but it is important to note that if the sale does not proceed a fee of 0.25% of the purchase price ($250 for every $100K) is paid by the purchaser to the vendor.

During the Cooling Off Period the vendor is bound to the sale of the property and cannot sell to anyone else even if a higher offer is made.

It is possible to waive the Cooling Off Period by the purchaser providing the vendor with a Section 66W Certificate. The buyer will need to engage a solicitor or conveyancer to execute this.

The advantages of a Cooling Off Period for the purchaser include securing the purchase and ensuring that the vendor cannot sell to anyone else in this time. It also usually expedites the process of the sale and means less stress and uncertainty for the buyer.

For the vendor a Cooling Off Period provides an expression of genuine interest and provision of some compensation even if the sale does not go ahead (0.25% fee). It also indicates that the purchaser is motivated to go ahead with the sale and has made a financial and psychological investment in the property. It also ensures that the purchaser does their searches, pest and building reports and arranges their finance in a timely manner meaning less wasted time if the property needs to go back on the market.


www.irisproperty.com.au  
info@irisproperty.com.au
Tel : 02 45677254

Tax tips for property investors

The end of the financial year looms near and it's time to start thinking about getting the most out of your investment property. 
There are many things you may be able to claim so get those receipts organised and check out some of the ways you can minimise tax this year. 


You may be able to claim  :


• Advertising for a tenant
• Body Corporate fees
• Council rates
• Depreciation on plant and equipment
• Interest on a loan to purchase the property
• Insurance
• Land tax
• Property agents’ fees
• Repairs and maintenance (fully deductible)
• Capital works deductions/special building write-off
• Stationery, postage and telephone
• Travel expenses
• Water rates


Speak to your tax agent or accountant for more information. 

The basics of auctions

When to consider selling by auction

* Sale by auction is often the best way to go for unique and unusual properties.

* It is a great method of marketing generating a competitive interest around your property.

* This form of sale allows the selling price to be dictated by the market rather than by setting a cap or figure for sale which is useful when there are few comparable properties in your area.

*It's helpful for people who want a good chance of selling their home on a given day for at least the minimum price you have determined with your agent.

How it works

Once you have decided to go to auction we can guide you through the whole process.
The process of  marketing your property is similar to other sale types in that we will contact potential buyers, devise an advertising campaign and arrange open homes for people to inspect your property.

The date for auction is set and advertised and the minimum sale price (reserve) is determined near the end of the marketing campaign. You are always protected by the reserve price.

On auction day Martin and your auctioneer will guide you through the process. The relevant documentation is displayed for potential purchasers and the ground rules for the auction are set eg, acceptable bid increments.

The auctioneer will ask for a starting bid and once the reserve is met the property is said to be 'on the market' and the highest bidder on the day is the purchaser. If the reserve is not met during the auction we still have the opportunity to sell under auction conditions until midnight of that same day.

The purchaser is required to pay a 10% deposit on the fall of the hammerand sign the contract.   Settlement generally occurs 42 days later or as negotiated between the parties.

For more information about auctions or selling your property call us at iRIS Property 02 45677254.

I was talking to a friend the other day who lives in Sydney. I felt struck when he said that he didn't really notice autumn and winter living in the city. Sure it was colder but the scenery didn't really change all that much. He was up for the weekend and was loving the colour display of the Hawkesbury region where gardens are showing off their red, yellow and orange beauty at this time of year.

Quite the opposite of the usual notion that real estate slows in winter, this time of year is one of the most stunning times to visit the Hawkesbury and we have some incredibly beautiful properties to show you.

The gardens are truly beautiful and homes are warmed by fires. This is the Hawkesbury at it's homeliest and most cosy, comforting time. The apple season is in full swing with the Bells Line of Road acting like a farmers market for fresh produce and home baked goodies all the way to the Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens which are not to be missed for an autumn and winter display.


Check out our website for some amazing properties

www.irisproperty.com.au/



and the Hawkesbury What's On guide for your next visit


www.hawkesburyaustralia.com.au/information/default.asp

Building wealth

Property investment is a fantastic way to build wealth whether you're looking at long or short term goals. We can help you to find the right property to meet your criteria. Some types of investments can be difficult to understand if you don't have a degree in economics - let's look at some great reasons to get into the investment market.

So why should you think about property for investment ?

* Solid, proven capital growth
* The safety of bricks and mortar
* Regular rental income to support you or your loan
* Tax incentives such as negative gearing- almost un-heard of anywhere else in the world !
* The ability to increase the value of your asset through improvements such as painting, renovations, landscaping - often a small investment of cash or time can significantly increase the value of your property and the income you receive from it.

If you are ready to build a more secure financial future and are looking for investment opportunities call us  today.

A simple buyers guide

1. Speak with a mortgage broker/bank/financial institution to determine the most appropriate loan type for you and to gauge your borrowing capacity.

2. Make a short list of the suburbs or areas you are interested in and do some basic research about average price houses for these areas and to assess services such as shops, schools and transport- we can help you with this.

3. Get to know your agent - we like to know about you too - the better we understand your needs such as family size, transport and schooling requirements the better we are able to find the right property for you and your family.

4. When you find a property that you are interested in it's time to bring in solicitors and arrange pest and building inspections. This gives you the information you need to make an informed decision about the offer you would like to make to the vendor.

5. When your offer has been accepted it is time to sign the contract for sale and pay your 10% deposit which is held in trust until the sale is finalised.

6. At this point the solicitors, conveyancers or agent arranges exchange of the signed contracts and settlement usually takes place 6 weeks later.

At iRIS Property we have years of experience in helping people find the home they want. Call us today to see how we can help you.

Tips for a fuss free house move

You have found the perfect home and it's time to move. Follow our handy checklist to minimise the stress.

1. Decide if you are going to engage a removalist service or do it yourself.

Removalist - negotiate price, inclusions and book at least 3 weeks in advance of moving date.

DIY - arrange to hire moving van if necessary and start to gather boxes and packing materials.

2. Arrange disconnection and new connection of services such as power, internet, telephone. Change property details on insurance policies.

3. Start packing any items you won't be using and organise a system of labelling to avoid double handling on the day and to ensure access should you need something in the meantime.

4. Make a moving home checklist ( there are lots of websites with easy to follow examples ) make an inventory of your belongings and make sure to keep things you will need for your first night in your new home separate. Consider packing a couple of changes of clothes, some sheets and towels, toiletries and toys for kids.

5. Make sure all boxes are clearly labelled and necessary items are easily accessible.

Good luck, and have fun. Generally - if everyone in the household packs two boxes each per day , everything will be easily sorted by the time moving day comes around - it's that simple and stress free !!

Great property management

Did you know that iRIS Property provides property management services????

What  makes a good property manager ?

Good management of your investment property doesn't just mean collecting the rent.  It also involves inspections of your property to ensure it's being well maintained, advising on ways to improve your property to attract better rental income and capital growth, negotiating the best deals for you when the tenancy agreement is due for review and ensuring that tenants are appropriate and reliable.

We have all heard horror stories of unpaid rent and damaged buildings. Why not hand the hard work over to the professionals ? At iRIS we pride ourselves on providing you with an up to date rental payment system, options for nominating payment methods, inspections to guarantee the safety of your property and competitive rent negotiation.

Call today for information on how we can provide you with a stress free rental management service.

Street Appeal

You've decided to put your home on the market. The clutter is packed away, windows are sparkling, the house is cleaned and you are ready to go. Or are you ???

People often spend a lot of time and money preparing the inside of homes for sale. Painting, cleaning and renovating are all important and can help you secure the right buyer for your property but the first impression buyers get is from the street and you want to make it a good one.

Most buyers see your home for the first time on a website. If they like what they see then comes an inspection or open home. Make sure that the way your property is presented is fresh and impressive.

A fresh coat of paint, well kept gardens and landscaping, tidy paths and driveways, removal of all rubbish and some well tended plants and mulching can make all the difference in securing that vaulable buyer interest.

Saving energy = saving money

Winter is always a time when energy costs go through the roof. Home heating and long hot showers can bump up your bill by hundreds of dollars.

Check out our simple tips to help you reduce energy consumption during the cooler months.

Better for the environment and better for your pocket.

Turn the temperature on the thermostat of your heater or reverse cycle air conditioner to 18-20°C. Every 1° increase in temperature can increase the heating component of your energy bill by up to 15%.

Insulate your ceilings and walls. 

Close curtains/blinds to minimise heat loss.

Seal cracks and holes that cause drafts. Drafts can increase winter heat loss by up to 25%.

Heat only the areas of the house you are using.

Hot water accounts for about 30% of your energy bill so it makes sense to reduce your hot water usage by shortening shower times and install an energy efficient shower head which can halve your hot water usage.

Simple ways to improve the value of your home

Getting top price for your property is the aim of the game.

Follow these simple but effective tips to increase the value of your home and improve your chances of a quick sale at a great price.

* Update your entranceway - paint the front door, clean pathways, ensure easy access and tidy front gardens.

* Make sure paintwork is fresh and clean. No-one wants to buy a house if the first task is having to repaint. Make your home appealing to buyers.

* Have carpets professioanlly cleaned. If you have floorboards make sure they are in great condition - they can be a fantastic sale feature - resand and seal if necessary or just clean and polish.

* Consider updating the kitchen if necessary by painting or replacing cupboard doors, handles and benchtop. This can cost as little as a few hundred dollars but can make all the difference to your homes saleability.

* Clean your windows! This simple task can change the whole feel of your home letting in light and giving the impression of a well maintained home. Consider removing or replacing old curtains or blinds as needed.

* Revamp your bathroom by replacing toliet seats and tapware. Clean away all signs of mould or damp and consider using products like grout pens to freshen up tiling. Stock your bathrooms with fresh towels for a co-ordinated and fresh look.

* Tidy your garden, wash paths, remove rubbish and ensure that your garden is free of pet mess.

If you don't feel you have the time or skills for these tasks why not investigate getting in some handyman help. It could prove to be one of the best investments you can make in selling your home.

Spending money to make money

Sometimes the best way to make money is to spend money.

When considering wealth creation or retirement planning it's hard to beat real estate as an investment.

Lets face it, not everyone is a great saver and money management may not be your strong suit but owning your own home or investment property can be a great beginning to building yourself a sound financial base. Building equity in a home by making regular mortgage payments is one of the best ways for many people to save a large amount of money over time.

This type of forced saving by paying off a mortgage is one of the most effective way of achieving wealth and with banks offering great interest rates and low loan establishment fees now is a great time to get into the market. 

View our current listings online at www.irisproperty.com.au 

Call today to see how we can help you get ahead in the property market or make the transition from renter to owner !

Quotes to invest by

Owning a home is a keystone of wealth - both financial affluence and emotional security.
Suze Orman

Buy on the fringe and wait. Buy land near a growing city. Buy real estate when other people want to sell. Hold what you buy.
John Jacob Astor

Price is what you pay. Value is what you get.
Warren Buffett

The best investment on earth is earth.
Louis Glickman

Reasons to feel positive about the property market

Are you feeling uncertain about entering the property or investment market ?

Let's look at some sound reasons why it's a great time to get on board.

* Interest rates are low and the banks are jostling for your business so take advantage of the opportunity to negotiate a great rate and deal. It's a fabulous time to lock in a discounted interest rate so you have peace of mind about your mortgage payments in the future.

* This is a great time for housing affordability. With lots of property for sale you can negotiate some fantastic bargains

* This is an amazing time for those who are happy to enter the market when others are being cautious - you have your pick of properties and sellers are keen to work with you.

* There is a longstanding, trackable record of capital growth in Australia. A medium to long term approach to property investment is always wise.

* For investors rental returns have taken an upturn and provide great return on investment.

*The Hawkesbury is a fabulous option for families looking for an improved lifestyle on a reduced price compared to the Sydney market. Within easy driving/commuting distance to the city and suburbs with a lower mortgage and great rural lifestyle - perfect for kids and families.

See our blog listing" When is the best time to buy ?" http://irispropertynews.blogspot.com.au/2012/05/when-is-best-time-to-buy.html

Making your marketing dollar work for you

At iRIS Property we are dedicated to giving you the best possible marketing strategy to make your marketing dollars work hard for you.

A great marketing strategy will give you the best chance of creating interest and competition for your home or investment.

Marketing encompasses many options such as print media, online listings, signage, flyers, promotional articles, special mentions in newsletters and updates to our database of purchasers and posts on our social media sites such as Facebook and the iRIS Property blog.


It is important to think of marketing dollars as an investment - consider the ROI (return on investment) . It may seem like another expense but in fact, great marketing leads to more people being made aware of your property and this increased exposure leads to faster sales and great prices.

You only need to reach one buyer but it takes considerable marketing to find them. Strategic, well placed marketing from iRIS helps connect you with the people you need to know about.

Call today to discuss our unique approach to getting the results you want.

www.irisproperty.com.au

The Hawkesbury Food Bowl

The Hawkesbury region has long been known for it's fresh produce. Famous for it's Bilpin apples, the Hawkesbury food and wine experience has expanded to include the Hawkesbury Harvest Farm Gate Trail.

This wonderful trail highlights some of the gourmet treats of this fertile region. A map of local producers and providores can be found at http://hawkesburyharvest.com.au/farmgate_map.asp.

Why not take a day to explore the area and indulge in pick your own fruit, gourmet farmers markets, wineries, local cheese makers, home made apple and berry pies.

Some highlights of the trail include the Hawkesbury Harvest Markets - held every second Saturday,
Lochiel Cafe - historic Kurrajong Heights cafe showcasing local produce in a beautiful setting and of course the wonderful roadside stalls along Bells Line of Rd Bilpin selling fresh picked seasonal fruit, jams and pies.

Check out the Hawkesbury Harvest website for upcoming events

http://hawkesburyharvest.com.au/farmgate.asp

Considering an investment property ?

Are you considering buying an investment property ?
At iRIS Property we can guide you through the process of finding an investment property
that will work for you and your budget.

People buy investment properties for varying reasons
* Tax concessions
* Retirement planning
* Wanting to hold a tangible asset as opposed to the possible volatility of shares
* Rental income
* Capital growth

When searching for a great investment property there are a few key factors you need to consider
*Chose your area wisely
*Ensure that the property is well maintained and remains low maintenace
*Look for amenities which are important to tennants ie shops, transport, schools, health care, entertainment facilities

If you are looking to invest in property call us today to see how we can help you.

For more information and to browse our listings go to http://www.irisproperty.com.au/

When is the best time to buy ?

When is the best time to buy ? The short answer is NOW, or better still yesterday.
How often have you heard someone say " I wish I'd bought that place back in 2009. It was $100,000
less then " ?

It's natural to feel cautious when embarking on a major financial decision and we are grateful for the trrust you place in us when looking to find the best property for you.

Sometimes when considering the timing for investing in real estate it is a matter of not necessarily finding the 'perfect place' that ticks every box but of considering lots of properties that meet your criteria and can act as a stepping stone to your dream home or investment.

It is hard to go wrong with real estate when you take a medium to long range view and consider your move into the market as a form of savings not unlike superannuation. You're in it for the long term capital gain - (  one of the few that still tax free !) , the security of having your own home and to create a financial wall of security for yourself and your family.

www.irisproperty.com.au

Solicitors vs conveyancers

We are commonly asked what is the difference between a solicitor and conveyancer and how to tell who can serve you best when buying or selling your property.

All property transactions require legal documentation such as contracts and mortgage documents.
Both conveyancers and solicitors can prepare and execute these documents on your behalf.

Both options offer you preparation of documents, legal advice relating to contracts and properties  and explanation of contracts. Solicitors however, can offer you additional legal advice around issues such as tax matters, inheritance law and more complicated contract issues such as easements and rights of carriageway. Solicitors are generally employed when the contracts are not typically straightforward and provide you with a higher level of security in this instance.

One of the most obvious differences is that of cost with conveyancers often being significantly less expensive due mainly to a smaller scope of practice.

If considering a conveyancer it is essential to ensure that they are registered with the NSW Department of Fair Trading and that they hold current professional indemnity insurance.

Buying basics

Buying a property is a big decision and you need to know a few basics facts to get started.
Finding an agent to guide you through the process is invaluable and we pride ourselves on providing you with sound, practical advice to get the ball rolling.

1. Chose your area - consider areas which are going to suit you best bearing in mind work, travel, schools, hospitals, personal reasons such as proximity to family and friends.

2. Talk to your bank - arrange pre-approval of loans and explore the costs involved in purchasing property eg solicitors, conveyancing, pest and building inspections.

3. Find the professionals you need to be able to go ahead smoothly with your purchase once you have found your property - we can suggest some reputable companies.

4. Sign up for our email newsletter for information on new property listings and price changes.
info@irisproperty.com.au

Follow us on facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Iris-Property

Join the iRIS Property blog for a practical and helpful source of information on all things real estate.
http://irispropertynews.blogspot.com.au/

Mortgages - what you need to know

Buying property almost always means dealing with banks. If you are thinking of taking
out a mortgage it pays to consider these important tips....

Find a banker, financial advisor or mortgage broker that you can trust and feel comfortable
dealing with.

Liaise with your bank or financial institution to determine a budget which considers your
lifestyle and possible changes in life circumstances

Chose the most appropriate loan for your purposes - principle and interest, interest only loans, fixed or variable rates of interest

Beware of interest free or honeymoon offers

Research possible government assistance such as First Home Owner Grants

Compare banks and financial instutions for fees, interest rates, breakcost terms


iRIS Property    http://www.irisproperty.com.au/

Autumn in the Hawkesbury

The leaves are turning and the autumn colour in the mountains is beautiful. The cool evenings
and crisp sunny days make this one of the loveliest times of year and well worth a visit.

The Hawkesbury is known for it's local produce, rural feel, access to National Parks and
the Mount Tomah Botanical Gardens which are particularly stunning at this time of year.

We have a number of fantastic properties available at the moment which showcase the
beauty of the Hawkesbury in autumn.

Follow this link to our website and enjoy browsing through our current listings.
www.irisproperty.com.au

Finding the right agent for you

Finding the right real estate agent is one of the most important decisions you will make when selling or buying a property.
Trust, rapport, integrity and knowlege are essential in building a successful working relationship.

Things to look for when chosing an agent :
* Professionalism
* Local area expertise
* Experience
* Effective marketing
* Proven track record in market appraisal and negotiation
* Great results

At iRIS property we have 23 years of local experience. We have a solid basis in dealing professionally and with integrity. We provide quality and dependable service combined with great results.

Call today to see how we can help you achieve your goals.

Tips for selling your home

We all want to get the best possible price when selling our homes. Follow these steps to ensure your home is the one that gets noticed.

1. Spring clean your property - make sure that your home and gardens are spotlessly clean and that all repairs are up to date.

2. Clear away any clutter from your property. Over furnished rooms can look untidy and smaller than they really are.

3. Check your street appeal - have a good look at your home from the street. Is it clean and tidy ? Are the lawns mown and ? Is there any flaking paint or junk to be removed ?

4. Clean up after your pets and ensure that they are not home during inspections.

5. Lastly, and most importantly, find an agent you can work with. A good agent will help you determine a realistic price and provide you with information and advice about ways to get a great result from your sale.

At iRIS Property we pride ourselves on the service we offer. We aim to provide you with reliable, honest and professional advice.

Call today to see how we can help you make the most of your assets and get the results you want.

Helping hand for first home buyers

Getting ready to buy your first home can seem daunting.
Did you know that there are dedicated savings accounts available which offer great savings incentives and are designed to help you get on track with saving for a home deposit ?

Some of the benefits of these types of accounts are annual government contributions of up to $935 and reduced tax rates on your interest earnings.

Follow this link for more information about First Home Saver Accounts

https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-my-money/banking/savings-accounts/first-home-saver-accounts

Call us today to discuss buying your first home. We are here to help.