The housing market is generally a 7-10 year cycle; there are always highs, lows and steady patches. Make sure you’re comfortable with how much you’re borrowing, and you know what your financial goals are. Plan ahead – you may find a long-term tenant or you may find that your tenants come and go.  Make sure your cashflow is sufficient so that you can cover the mortgage and other outgoings while the property is empty.

Keep in mind that the interest and related expenses you incur (such as repairs and maintenance) are tax deductible. Negative gearing means your loan repayments, fees and other costs exceed your rental income. This means that the net loss can be offset against other income you earn, so you will be able to reduce the amount of tax payable on your other income.

Positive gearing, on the other hand, is where the annual rental income received from the property is higher than the annual loan repayments and costs. The benefit here is that you earn extra income, but of course this is taxable. Also make sure you factor in the capital gains tax you will have to pay if you decide to sell the property. Be sure to consult your taxation advisor.

Take control of your investment by being properly informed on property values, trends and what is happening in the home loan market.

To research the areas you are interested in, read property-related articles, use reputable property research companies and the Real Estate Institute of Australia, search the Internet, plus talk to people in the know. Find out each area’s average rental yields, what services infrastructure is in place and planned, and the property price growth that has been experienced and is expected.  Invest the time to fully understand the market – it could make a big difference to future investment returns.

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