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Getting more done with fewer interruptions
April 8, 2016
So you think you’re pretty good at multi-tasking? Well, research[1] tells us we’re not – in fact we’re awful at it! And, according to Dr Julia Irwin, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at Macquarie University who specialises in cognitive behaviour, we can’t perform multiple tasks with the same level of skill as when we perform tasks...Read More
Ten steps to self-managed super
April 8, 2016
It can be hard to know where to start or what’s ahead when you embark on setting up your own self-managed super fund (SMSF). The good news is we can help you every step of the way: 1. Start with financial advice An SMSF isn’t for everyone so you’ll need to consider your own circumstances...Read More
Thought about investing in commercial property?
April 4, 2016
“Investors in Australia are moving towards higher yielding investments such as commercial real estate because of historically low interest rates”, says Michael Kingcott, AMP Capital’s head of property investment strategy and research. In fact, in 2014/15 commercial property investment in Australia soared to a record high of $28.88 billion1 ─ a 19% increase on 2013/14....Read More
How you’re over-spending and impacting planet earth
March 29, 2016
Whether you’re across the state of climate change and the impact of your carbon footprint or not, doing your bit could help the planet and see you generate significant cost savings at the same time. We look at six areas where ‘going green’ may save you thousands of dollars each year. Save energy Using energy...Read More
Debt outstrips income growth
March 21, 2016
Household debt has grown by 5.3% above the rate of inflation, leaving our income growth rate of 1.3% trailing in its wake. The decision last week by the Reserve Bank to keep the official cash rate on hold is good news. Sure, those of us with a home loan would have preferred a rate cut,...Read More
No such beast as an ‘SMSF-qualified’ property
March 15, 2016
Whether a piece of real estate is an appropriate investment for an SMSF much depends on the circumstances of the fund and its members, whether the property is a worthwhile investment and, critically, a fund’s mandatory investment strategy. Further, SMSF trustees should only accept investment advice from the holder of an Australian financial services licence...Read More
Closing the deal as a first home buyer
March 15, 2016
Have you been looking for the home of your dreams or an investment property for a while now? If you’re across the costs associated with homeownership, the government rebates available and your loan has been pre-approved by your lender—you’re part way there. The finishing line draws near when you locate the ideal place and put...Read More
How much does it really cost to buy a property?
February 10, 2016
Some of the costs involved with home ownership include government fees, insurance, interest charges, strata fees, council fees and more. Read on for a full run-down of the costs you’re likely to come across. Upfront costs Purchase price This is what you’ll pay to purchase the property and unless you’re paying outright, it’s likely to...Read More
A basic guide to renting out your property
February 10, 2016
Unforseen mishaps and missed opportunities are two things first-time and veteran landlords can do without, particularly when financial loss is involved. To help you navigate the world of investment property, we look at some of the common questions you may want to consider before and after your tenants move in. Am I going to manage...Read More
Important changes to SMSF annual return
February 10, 2016
There have been significant changes to the SMSF annual return. Understanding the changes will help you submit the correct information for your fund. It is now a requirement for all SMSFs to provide us with your fund’s superannuation bank account details. In addition, if your SMSF has an electronic service address alias, you should include...Read More