While it’s tempting to get swept up in the excitement of real estate listings and open homes with freshly baked cookies, it’s important to remember one key principle: caveat emptor- let the buyer beware. In other words, it’s up to you to make sure you’re not buying someone else’s expensive problem disguised with a fresh coat of paint.

Let’s talk about what that means and how to do your homework before you pick up the keys to your future.

Check for unwelcome houseguests or hazards

Just because a house looks clean and tidy doesn’t mean there isn’t a party of pests going on behind the walls. Termites, in particular, are silent destroyers that can chew through timber framing like it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet.

A professional pest inspection can determine if there’s any current activity, previous infestations, or evidence of rodents and other creepy-crawlies you’d prefer not to share your home with. It’s much easier to walk away from a dodgy property than it is to evict a thousand termites.

Of course, it’s also a good idea to check for any potential health hazards like mould, asbestos, or lead paint, which are common in older homes, and even consider checking for soil contamination.

Make sure there’s no insurance surprises

Some properties come with a lovely location and serious risk. If you’re eyeing a home near a river, in the bush, or on a coastal cliff, don’t forget to check what kind of insurance situation you’re getting yourself into.

Insurers might charge a premium or flat-out refuse to cover you if the property is in a flood-prone or bushfire-vulnerable area. Before making an offer, check local hazard maps and call for quotes. Your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.

Check the property’s history

Not all home improvements or renovations are done by the book. Before you get too attached, ask for the paperwork. Has the work been approved by council? Are there permits and final inspection certificates for any recent renovations? If not, you could be looking at future battles with the council, expensive fixes, or worse, being forced to demolish an unapproved structure you just paid good money for.

Don’t judge a home by its new carpet

Fresh paint, new carpet, and strategically placed furniture can hide a multitude of sins. Sometimes sellers use cosmetic upgrades to cover up deeper problems like mould, damp, or structural damage.

If the house smells like fresh paint or looks a little too perfect in specific areas, your inner detective should be on alert. It’s not rude to poke around. Lift a rug, peek inside the cupboards, turn on taps and check out the roof space and under the house, if you can. Things that can be red flags include misaligned doors, cracks in walls or new plasterwork, windows that are hard to open or have cracked glass. These issues can all point to structural issues that can be expensive to fix.

Get a professional involved

Consider engaging a professional building inspector to identify any undisclosed or non-compliant works and look for signs of water damage, dodgy wiring, structural issues, and other costly defects that aren’t visible to the untrained eye.

Think of it as hiring a bodyguard for your future bank account.

Don’t neglect the fine print

Even if the seller seems genuine and the home looks like something out of a magazine, don’t skip the fine print. Request documentation and take the time to have the contract of sale reviewed by a solicitor or conveyancer. Make sure any inclusions like appliances, curtains, or fixtures are clearly listed. Check if there are any easements, restrictions, or future developments nearby that could affect your property. You don’t want to move into your peaceful dream home only to find out there’s a freeway going in or an apartment complex being built next door.

You should compare the measurements shown on the title document with actual fences and buildings on the property, to make sure the boundary matches what’s on paper.

A property might come with charm, character, and a great location, but you need to make sure it also comes with solid bones, legal compliance, and no nasty surprises lurking under the surface.

So, take your time and remember, you’re not just buying a house. You’re investing in your future comfort, safety, and happiness.

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

How much super should I have is a common question. But when it comes to how much super (or other savings) you’ll need for retirement there’s no single right number – because everyone’s retirement looks different. It depends what your big costs are likely to be, and what sort of lifestyle you want.

No matter what you want your retirement to look like though, here are some steps that will help you work out how much you need and if you’re on track.

1. Decide on the retirement you want
2. Work out how much super to aim for
3. Check how your super balance is tracking
4. Think about whether you need financial advice

1. Decide on the retirement you want

To get an idea of how much you might spend in retirement, you can check the following:

• The Association of Super Funds of Australia (ASFA) publishes a Retirement Standard, updated quarterly. It estimates how much you might spend in retirement, based on either a comfortable or a modest standard of living.
• Super Consumers Australia estimate low, medium and high levels of spending in retirement, based on Australian Bureau of Statistics data on retiree spending.

Both ASFA and Super Consumers Australia also estimate the amount you should be aiming to have in your super account (or saved somewhere else) when you retire, to support your retirement spending.

What’s a ‘comfortable’ retirement?

A comfortable retirement, according to ASFA, is about more than covering the basics. It means you enjoy a good standard of living and have money for:

• annual domestic trips and one overseas trip every seven years
• regular hobbies and social outings
• occasional restaurant and takeaway meals
• top level private health cover and unexpected medical costs beyond what Medicare covers
• a reliable car, petrol and maintenance
• home maintenance and appliance updates
• utilities like power, water, gas and council rates
• internet, phone, computer, and streaming services.

2. Work out how much super you should aim for

ASFA suggests what your super balance should be at age 67 for either a modest or comfortable retirement. It takes into account Age Pension, where applicable, and assumes you own your home outright unless noted.

Super Consumers Australia estimates your savings target at age 65. It takes into account the Age Pension, where applicable, and assumes you own your home outright.

It’s important to say that these amounts are guides, not strict targets, as everyone’s situation is different.

3. Check how your super balance is tracking

How do real superannuation balances compare to the estimates above? The Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) tracks average super balances across age groups.

These are averages only. Some people will have more, others less. How does your super balance compare to your age group above?

Make a note to check your super at least once a year. Here’s a list of things to keep an eye on. If you don’t understand any details about your super account, call your super fund and ask questions.

4. Get financial advice if you need it

Planning for your retirement can be complex. Think about getting personalised advice from us can help you plan ahead.

Knowing how much super you need to retire, how your balance compares to others your age, and whether you’re on track for the retirement you want, is an important first part of planning your future.

Ready to plan?

Now you know what you’re aiming for, use the Moneysmart retirement planner to estimate:

• how much money you’ll have to spend each year once you retire
• how fees, investment options and contributions will affect your retirement income

You can also use the planner to test out different scenarios and work out how to grow your super.

Use the retirement planner

For a more detailed idea of how much super you will have at retirement, contact us today.

Reproduced with the permission of ASIC’s MoneySmart Team. This article was originally published at https://moneysmart.gov.au/plan-for-your-retirement/retirement-planner
Important note: This provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account.  It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, we do not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person.  Past performance is not a reliable guide to future returns.
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Any information provided by the author detailed above is separate and external to our business and our Licensee. Neither our business nor our Licensee takes any responsibility for any action or any service provided by the author. Any links have been provided with permission for information purposes only and will take you to external websites, which are not connected to our company in any way. Note: Our company does not endorse and is not responsible for the accuracy of the contents/information contained within the linked site(s) accessible from this page.

As the festive season approaches, there is a noticeable shift in the air. The days grow longer, school terms wrap up, and communities across the country begin to prepare for end-of-year celebrations in all kinds of ways.

For some, it is about unpacking boxes of decorations, preparing familiar family recipes and racing around the shops. For others, it is time to plan a beach day, host a casual BBQ, or simply enjoy a well-earned break from routine.

The festive season in Australia looks different for everyone. That’s part of what makes it so special. We live in a society full of rich cultural traditions. Some festive traditions have been passed down for generations, such as midnight Mass, lighting candles for Hanukkah, or gathering for a family meal on Christmas Day. Others have come to us through popular culture, often shaped by images of snowy winters and roaring fireplaces that don’t quite fit our sunny, southern hemisphere reality.

Think hot roast dinners in 35-degree heat, matching Christmas jumpers despite the sweat, and singing about snowmen and sleighbells.

And that’s okay. That’s part of the rich tapestry that is celebrating the festive season.

However, while tradition can be beautiful, it’s also worth asking yourself: do these traditions still bring joy to my life? Or am I doing them out of habit or obligation?

Reducing stress, reclaiming joy

The lead-up to the holidays can easily become overwhelming. This time of year often brings with it a long list of expectations about what to cook, how to decorate, where to be, and what to buy.

Trying to meet every expectation, real or imagined, can drain the joy right out of what is meant to be a time of celebration.

By letting go of pressure and embracing flexibility, we can shift the focus back to what really counts. Laughter. Connection. Rest. Reflection.

It is okay to opt out of what no longer fits. In fact, doing so often creates more space for what actually feels meaningful.

Rethinking what celebration looks like

While traditions can be a wonderful way to connect with our roots, they are not set in stone. Over time, life changes. Families grow and shift. Priorities evolve. The way we mark special moments can grow with us.

So, it is worth pausing to ask: are these traditions still adding joy to my life? Or am I continuing them out of pressure, or a sense of obligation?

Giving yourself permission to do things differently can be both freeing and fulfilling.

Making meaning in your own way

Reimagining tradition does not mean abandoning everything you love. It means choosing what feels right for you and creating space for joy, connection and rest – however that looks.

You might decide to swap the roast for prawns and salad and the pudding for a pavlova. Or ditch the mess of wrapping paper and presents in favour of shared experiences. You could even celebrate on a different day to reduce stress. Some people find joy in having a picnic in a beautiful location, taking a family beach walk at sunset, or simply spending the day unplugged from screens.

For others, creating new traditions might involve volunteering in the community or cooking dishes from their cultural heritage.

Whether your festive season is full of people or quiet moments, it only needs to reflect what matters most to you.

The season is yours to shape

There is no one way to celebrate. What is right for one person may not suit another and that is the beauty of it. The festive season does not have to look a certain way to be valid or joyful.

You might still love baking the same cake your grandmother made or singing carols in your street. Or you might find joy in starting completely new customs that reflect your values and lifestyle today. Either way, the important thing is that your celebrations feel true to you.

Small moments can become meaningful rituals too. A quiet morning coffee, a favourite song playlist, or calling someone you have not spoken to in a while are all things that can bring warmth and joy without adding stress.

Whatever this season means to you…

We hope it brings you joy.

With Christmas nearly upon we’d like to let you know that the office will be closed from 5pm Thursday 18^th December 2025 and will re-open at 9am Monday 5^th January 2026. 

The growth of Australian home values is not slowing down with national gains continuing. Cotality’s national Home Value Index rose 3.1% over the quarter to December, growing 1.0% in November, marking the third month in a row where Australian home values have increased by 1% or more. However, the pace of growth is moderating, coming down from 1.1% in October.

Before the February rate cut, housing conditions were losing momentum, even recording flat to falling values through late 2024 and January 2025,” said Tim Lawless, Cotality’s research director. “The first rate cut in February marked a clear turning point, with home values moving through a positive inflection across most regions and gathering steam since then.”

Markets are starting to diverge

The larger capital cities had gains, with Sydney property values rising 0.5% and Melbourne, the second largest capital city, increasing by 0.3% in November. All of the other capital cities had gains of 1% or higher throughout the month, with Perth leading the way with a 2.4% surge in value.

Cotality’s research director, Tim Lawless stated that the growth across the mid-sized capitals is diverging from the larger capital cities, which is similar to what we saw back in 2023 and 2024.

“The skew towards the mid-sized capitals is especially evident in Perth, where listings are holding more than 40% below average, buyer demand is elevated and the 2.4% monthly rise in dwelling values has added just over $21,000 to the median in November, roughly $5,000/week.”

Supply remains tight

Auction clearance rates peaked in mid-September and have been trending lower in the following months, falling below the decade average by mid-November with the larger capital cities, Sydney and Melbourne seeing clearance rates sitting around 60% in the second half of November.

Housing supply is continuing to remain scarce for a number of reasons, with affordability being the main factor, followed by skilled labour shortage, which is holding back the construction of homes.

Inflation causing concern

There is renewed pressure on the Reserve Bank of Australia, with inflation increasing again in October to 3.8%, up from 3.6% in September. This rise indicates the RBA will not make a rate cut and there has been speculation that the cash rate will be held for an extended period of time, or the RBA may even consider a rate hike in December or February 2026, which would be a concern for first home buyers and mortgagees alike.

Changes to lending criteria may impact the market

In a recent announcement from Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), there will be changes to limit the high debt-to-income (DTI) ratio of loans. Mr. Lawless noted the majority of recent mortgage originations remain significantly below a DTI of six or more. “This new credit policy won’t be implemented until February next year, but even then, it’s likely to only affect the margins of borrowing activity,” Mr Lawless said.

Dwelling values over the quarter 

Melbourne

The Victorian capital saw a modest 1.6% quarterly move according to Cotality figures, taking the city’s median dwelling price to $823,495. Investors should take note that the gross rental yield figure for Melbourne is 3.6%.

Sydney

Sydney experienced a dwelling value change of 1.8% resulting in a median of $1.269 million. The gross rental yield for the Harbour City remains the lowest of the capitals at 3.0%.

Brisbane

The Queensland capital continues to record the second most expensive spot for dwelling values at $1.015 million and a quarterly rise of 5.5%. Brisbane has recorded a gross rental yield of 3.4%.

Canberra

The national capital recorded a rise of 2.2% during the quarter with the median now sitting at $891,626. For Canberra, the gross rental yield is 4.0%.

 Perth

Perth prices increased 7.4% over the quarter, taking its medium to $914,229. Perth recorded 3.9% gross rental yield.

For more information about how you might be able to purchase a property in the current market, get in touch with us today 0n 03 9723 0522.

Note: all figures in the city snapshots are sourced from: Cotality national Home Value Index (December 2025)

If you have any questions or need any information please give us a call on 039723 0522.

The holidays are a time for joy, good food, and catching up with the people you care about. They are also a time when your spending can quietly start sabotaging your savings while you are distracted by twinkling lights. The good news is that with a little planning and a few smart choices, you can enjoy the season without having to wave goodbye to your financial goals.

On the first day of Christmas… I made myself a plan

A plan does not have to be complicated. Just take a short amount of time to jot down the main holiday costs including gifts, food, decorations, social events, and travel and set a realistic limit for each. It keeps spending in check without making the season feel like a math class.

Tips:

• Make a list and check it twice!
• Decide a comfortable amount for each person before you start shopping.
• Take advantage of loyalty programs.
• Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses so you do not feel caught off guard.

Gift from the heart, not the store

It’s easy to get caught up in the consumer frenzy that is Christmas. Let’s face it, the shops are set up to entice with decorations and lovely displays and it’s almost impossible to avoid the temptations of online shopping. However, while no one wants to be a Scrooge, once the wrapping paper is off you can be left with a big hole in your bank account. It’s important to remember – gifts do not need to be expensive to be memorable and experiences are often even better than objects.

Tips:

• Bake a batch of cookies or homemade fudge, with a handwritten note.
• Frame a photo of a special memory.
• Plan a day trip to create memories that last longer than anything bought in a store.
• Secret Santa or gift swaps can make things easier while keeping the fun alive.

Eat, drink and be merry

Food is a highlight of the season, but it does not need to eat into your budget. Keeping things simple with no frills but tasty food, a holiday playlist, or a signature drink can make the occasion feel festive without a big price tag.

Tips:

• Plan your menu with a budget in mind.
• Buy in bulk and when things are on special and freeze in advance.
• Ask guests to contribute an entrée, nibbles or drinks.
• Potluck gatherings are a smart way to share the load while enjoying everyone’s cooking.

Holidays that focus on fun without forking out

If you are travelling, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a trip without overspending. Camping and self-catering accommodations are often cheaper and more flexible than hotels. You also get the bonus of cooking your own meals, taking things at your own pace, and skipping overpriced convenience food.

Tips:

• Book early to grab better rates.
• Pack snacks and simple meals to save money on the go.
• Look for free or low-cost activities such as markets, hiking trails, or seasonal events.
• Reduce costs by using public transportation and packing light to avoid baggage fees on airlines.

More ho ho ho, less owe owe owe

It can be tempting to rely on credit cards or Buy Now Pay Later plans, especially when the holiday rush is on. But these can easily turn manageable spending into long-term stress. Sticking to what you can comfortably afford keeps the season fun and worry-free.

The holidays are about connection, laughter, and making memories. Planning ahead, being creative, and keeping spending in perspective, helps the season feel joyful and meaningful. Think of your budget as a helpful guide, not a rulebook. It lets you enjoy the season fully without any regret.

Well-planned festivities let you focus on what really matters. Celebrate in ways that are joyful, memorable, and kind to your savings. The best moments rarely come with a receipt.