Is It Time To Hire a Financial Planner?

Are you considering hiring a financial advisor? It’s no surprise, considering how challenging it can be to manage one’s own finances. When you’re a successful and busy person, there are probably more productive things you can spend your time doing as opposed to dealing with saving, investing, and overall financial management. A financial planner in Chatswood can help you get organised, stay organised, and handle all of your financial planning and investment management strategies.

Having some sort of financial plan allows for easier financial decision making and continued goal-meeting. It allows you to have some semblance of peace of mind in regards to your financial future.

Are you ready for a financial planner? These are the top indicators that you may need one in order to organise your finances and set yourself up for continued support in the future.

 

  1. You earn significant money in the top income tax bracket

Typically, people who earn more money are able to use savings strategies to their advantage that generally results in a lower amount of taxes during (or even before) retirement. However, without a knowledgeable financial planner, there’s a high likelihood that they will continue to pay more taxes than they should.

 

  1. You and your spouse are on different pages

If financial tension is making its presence in your home, chances are you need a financial planner. A financial planner can act almost as a couples counsellor in charge of finances. A third party who is unbiased can do a world of wonders in helping the two of you see eye to eye.

 

  1. Retirement makes you uneasy

If you’re not entirely sure whether or not you are on the right path for a comfortable retirement, a financial planner can be the key to helping you determine the next moves. Such a long-term goal requires long-term planning, and a lot of preparation to boot. With a financial advisor, you can set an achievable target goal and work from there.

 

  1. You’re unsure as to why you owe back taxes

Have you received that dreaded letter in the mail declaring that you owe a not-so-insignificant amount of back taxes and you’re unsure as to why? A financial planner can help you rectify this situation, as well as work with you to meet your deadline and figure out the reason.

 

  1. You have analysis paralysis

Yes, it’s a real thing. For the most part, it refers to the knowledge that you need to do something but keep putting it off, for one reason or another. It’s a common problem that happens when time comes to take action – make an investment decision, reconfigure your student loans, or set up something like life insurance. Generally speaking, the inaction leads to either paying more than you need to, or not earning as much as you could, depending on the situation.

 

  1. You don’t have the drive to do it yourself

If the mere thought of financial planning triggers a yawn or a sigh, chances are you are not the type of person who enjoys this stuff. Or maybe you do find some interest in it, but simply don’t have the time. The fact of the matter is that financial planning is a necessary (albeit sometimes tedious) thing that we all must do. Hiring a financial planner or advisor will do wonders for your peace of mind, your financial freedom, and your future.

Moving to Buderim, a Hidden Gem on the Sunshine Coast

Buderim is an up-and-coming real estate hotspot on the Sunshine Coast. Often overlooked in lieu of popular coastal towns nearby, Buderim is perched on a volcanic plateau of fertile, red soil overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

 

Things To Do In Buderim

 

The quaint town is just a few minutes away from world-class beaches, however, such as Alexandra Headland, Mooloolaba, and Maroochydore. 

Its centre streets are beautifully-lined with leafy trees, coffee shops, and delicious restaurants. Grab a bite to eat at Buderim Tavern or Harry’s on Buderim. 

Littered with waterfalls and hiking trails, this lush and verdant landscape is a veritable haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit the many natural havens of Buderim, including Buderim Forest Park, Edna Walling Memorial Garden, Buderim Rainforest, Headland Golf Club, and Eric Joseph Foote War Memorial Sanctuary. 

Buderim Craft Cottage is a great family-friendly activity with things to do for children of all ages.

 

Buderim’s Real Estate Outlook

Based on what Buderim has to offer its potential residents, the experts agree – it is severely undervalued. 

Given its up-and-coming trend, coupled with the surge in nearby beach prices, investors would be wise to find land for sale in Buderim for development purposes. The same way the neighbouring beach real estate prices skyrocketed, it’s inevitable that, in time, the same will happen in Buderim.

Buderim could be likened to some of Brisbane’s most coveted suburbs such as Hamilton or Ascot. You’ll find large land allotments with a wide variety of options for housing, from classic to contemporary. 

 

Why Move To Buderim?

While many people love to live by the seaside below, Buderim offers something that coastal living cannot – more space! The plots that are sold by the coast are significantly smaller than those sold in Buderim. So, depending on your family size and personal needs, you may find that Buderim is a better option for your next real estate endeavour.

Buderim has all of the conveniences of a standard town or small city, including retail centres and supermarkets, schools and pharmacies.

As with other prime real estate locations in the area, Buderim is very safe. 

And finally, the people of Buderim are truly kindhearted and welcoming. They will feel like your neighbours you’ve grown up with in no time at all.

 

On Top Of The World In Buderim

With views that go on for days and a unique, village-like atmosphere, Buderim is an excellent choice for new and old families alike. Particularly well-suited for growing families with young children, the extra yard space in comparison to the coastal plots of land will provide you with lasting memories for years to come.

Buderim is an ideal choice to live for many reasons. You reap the benefits of coastal living while escaping the beating, summer sun. You can experience life in a small-town, village-like community while still being near many amenities given the central location on the Sunshine Coast. 

Overall, with its strategic location nestled between the ocean and the hinterland, Buderim is high on our watch-list of places to move.

 

What To Consider When Buying House & Land Packages

Are you purchasing your first home or investment property? You may very well be beginning to experience a sense of overwhelm with the multitude of options available. One popular option is to purchase a comprehensive house and land package. As this is an attractive option for many, here are some considerations to take into account when looking for house and land packages in Victoria.

 

What Are House And Land Packages?

A house and land package is a property purchase in which the buyer purchases land and plans to construct a home. This is done with one process but with two contracts. These are slightly different from regular property purchases. When you buy a house and land package, you deal with two contracts (one for the land, one for the house), whereas with a traditional property purchase, the two are valued together and you get only one contract. 

The land contract is a set value which you will be required to pay via your mortgage or whatever financial terms you’ve arranged. The construction of the home is typically done in phases and paid for accordingly.

 

Considerations When Buying House and Land Packages

One of the most important considerations before choosing a house and land package is the area’s infrastructure. The area may be considered up-and-coming, so there may be factors to consider such as public transportation that are not fully developed yet. 

Break down the prices to ensure they are actually representative of the property value. Sometimes, these can be inflated by marketing commissions and costs. Find packages where you are not overpaying.

If your purpose is investment, take into consideration that you can’t have tenants during the construction phase. So financing your mortgage may require a bit of creativity until you are able to let to tenants, particularly if construction takes longer than anticipated.

 

House and Land Packages: Pros

Cost-Effective

Purchasing a package deal may be cheaper than purchasing an existing home. There are little-to-no fees or initial payments when building your own.

You can typically settle much sooner with a package deal since the traditional method often employs high interest rates. 

Convenience

Going with a house and land package typically simplifies the process of getting a home. You have to deal with the developer only instead of a multitude of different people involved in acquisition and construction. 

Financing

Financing is often simpler with house and land packages. You know exactly how much you need to finance before you go to the bank.

 

House and Land Packages: Cons

Pre-Designed Homes May Not Be For Everyone

While this can be considered a pro as well, not everyone will love to choose a home from a catalogue of options. Still, you can always adjust the design and add or remove any amenities that make the home unique for your family.

Location

If you were hoping to be in the city centre, a house and land package may not be for you. These deals are often situated in the suburbs where the commute to work increases and public transportation may not be an option.

Less Land

As these are generally part of a larger development, house and land packages are usually compact, meaning you’ll have less yard space. That’s not always the case, however, so be sure to do your research beforehand. 

 

In Summary

House and land packages are a great way to purchase property. It’s feasible, straightforward, and economical. It’s particularly well-suited to first-time homeowners. However, if unique home design and amenities are a priority for you, along with a large yard, you may consider purchasing an existing home or creating your own.