Blog

Gearing versus cash-flow on an investment property. What is the difference? We've mentioned previously the differences between negative and positive gearing. We also delved into the tools available to boost cash-flow to improve this gearing position i.e. loan structures to minimise interest rates and reduce those interest repayments. Crucially important for the avid investor, is […]

As we move into the space of property investing, it's very important to understand the dollars and cents of your investments - the gearing position. It gives you a real snapshot of the true financial make-up of your hard-earned dollars and whether those hard-earned dollars are working for you. After all, that is why we all decide […]

Division 43 is the category which addresses the building write-off component of your property. The historical construction costs include fees for preliminary items such as design fees, engineering and building approval costs.  Where actual costs are not known, a quantity surveyor has estimated this amount by determining the appropriate costs for the building/structural improvement of the […]

Division 40 is the category which covers assets that are easily removable from a building rather than attached or fixed. These include appliances and furnishings. Each item of plant or equipment within your property has an effective life measured in number of years. The effective life is determined by the tax commissioner under the latest […]

Frequently we are asked the question, why should I get a Quantity Surveyor to assist me with assessing depreciation on my investment property when it seems like a matter that an accountant can figure out? A quantity surveyor is a tertiary qualified professional that is degree qualified in the Science of Construction. This person as […]

I’ve just purchased a very run-down property and it needs a new kitchen & bathroom. Should I purchase a depreciation report? If so, how can a depreciation report help me with writing off older equipment? With any existing kitchen and bathroom, although that may seem quite old, there may indeed be some residual value in […]

My rental property was built in the 50’s. Can I still claim depreciation? Yes. In fact, with older properties the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) allows appliances such as stove tops and ovens to depreciate much faster. After including a host of other old items such as blinds and carpets, you are looking at $4000 to $5000 […]