At Century 21 Barossa we are proud to be an integral part of our community We feel privileged to be of service in helping people realise their property goals, converting dreams into tangible results. Under the leadership of our Principal, CJ Setlhong (or CJ as he is known throughout the Barossa Valley), our team has grown steadily as we pursue excellence. For the team success is about much more than numbers It's about integrity and doing the right thing by people These ethics have underpinned Century 21 Barossa from day one and continue to drive our team
LET'STALK
SUMMER
Your guide to all things Real Estate & the Barossa
UPCOMING EVENTS
For more events in the Barossa this Summer ... Scan the QR code
2024 BAROSSA CHRISTMAS PARADE
FRIDAY 06 DECEMBER 2024- 4:30PM
LYNDOCH STREET PARTY
FRIDAY 13 DECEMBER 2024 - 5:30PM
YALUMBA CHRISTMAS CAROLS
TUESDAT 17 DECEMBER 2024 - 10:00AM
This edition:
Meet the team
Cj’s property predictions
How to save on your power bill this summer!
Local Business Highlight - Barossa Big 4
Brokers Guide - Everything you need to know about purchasing your first home
Summer home maintenance checklist
Century 21 Charity Gala
Emerald Way Charity Home
Sold Properties
Meet the Team
CJ’S PROPERTY PREDICTIONS
CJ SETLHONG
Principal/Sales Consultant 0448 085 077
cjsetlhong@century21comau
Important Update!
As of January 1st 2025, the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) clearance certificates are now required prior to the settlement of any property being sold within the state with the increase of foreign investment in Australia, property sales withholding rules for property sales were introduced from 1 July 2017
As from 1st of January 2025 all property sales will require an ATO Clearance Certificate from the Australian Taxation Office and provided to the purchasers conveyancer prior to the settlement date
If the ATO Clearance Certificate is not provided, the purchasers conveyancer is legally required to hold 15% of the sale price on behalf of the vendors and forward directly to the ATO on the day of Settlement
This could effect the situations whereby surplus funds are required for a follow on purchase and then insufficient funds being available, settlement being delayed and potential legal action
Applications must be made with the ATO to obtain the Clearance Certificate, these applications must be made by either the vendor directly or via their tax agent
There is no fee payable to obtain the clearance certificate and all clients are encouraged to apply as early as possible upon a contract of sale being entered into
The certificate is valid for a 12 month period and could be used for the sale of multiple properties during that period The certificates obtained are vendor specific, if the property is owned by two or more people, each individual will need to apply for their own clearance certificate
Nuriootpa
Over the next three months, the property market in Nuriootpa, is expected to maintain its strong upward trajectory With median house prices currently at $600,000 following a substantial 21 8% growth over the past year, the demand for housing is projected to remain high. This is supported by the recent activity showing 27 houses available for sale in the last month ( as of November ) and 105 sold in the past 12 months, with properties moving at a median time of 36 days
The unit market, which has shown an impressive 31 2% growth with a median price of $410,000, is likely to see continued interest as buyers seek affordable investment opportunities with a 4 5% rental yield
With rental properties in high demand houses averaging $520 per week and units $390 per week investors can anticipate steady rental income The combination of strong buyer interest, evident from the 1,270 prospective buyers, and limited inventory suggests that prices may continue to rise moderately, reinforcing Nuriootpa’s position as an appealing market for both homebuyers and investors
Angaston
Over the next three months, the property market in Angaston, is expected to continue its impressive growth trajectory. The median house price currently stands at $626,000, reflecting a substantial 30 4% increase over the past year, highlighting the area’s rising appeal With 13 houses available in the past month ( as of November ) and 38 sold in the last year, the market remains competitive, supported by strong buyer interest with approximately 1,457 potential buyers Properties in Angaston sell relatively quickly, spending a median of 36 days on the market. For investors, the rental market is favorable, with houses renting for an average of $420 per week and yielding 4 5% annually The limited inventory coupled with continued demand suggests that property prices may see steady to moderate growth in the coming months
Tanunda
Over the next three months, the property market in Tanunda, is expected to continue its upward trend, buoyed by strong recent growth The median house price currently sits at $662,022, reflecting a 15 6% increase over the past year. As of November there has been 15 houses available in the past month and 101 sold over the last 12 months, demand is outstripping supply, pushing properties to sell quickly with a median time on the market of just 33 days. The rental market shows consistent demand, with houses renting for an average of $500 per week, yielding 4 4% annually Units, though limited in availability (with just two units listed in the past month), demonstrate even higher rental returns with a 5 0% yield Buyer interest remains substantial, evidenced by 924 potential house buyers and 247 for units Given these indicators, property values in Tanunda are likely to see moderate price growth, maintaining the suburb's reputation as a competitive and desirable market
Freeling
Over the next three months, the property market in Freeling, is expected to continue its gradual upward trend. The current median house price is $625,500, showing a 10 7% increase over the past year The market has seen 11 houses available in the past month ( as of November ) and 42 sold over the past 12 months, with properties typically spending a median of 37 days on the market Buyer interest remains solid, with approximately 569 potential buyers active in the area The rental market is also favorable, yielding 5.2% annually, which is attractive for investors. Given the current demand and limited supply, Freeling's property prices are likely to maintain steady growth, making it an appealing area for both homeowners and investors looking for reliable returns in the near future
Fans consume much less energy than air conditioning and can effectively cool your home Ceiling or portable fans are great options If using an air conditioner, set the thermostat to 24–26°C, and combine it with fans to circulate air, making it feel cooler without needing to set the AC too low
Set Air Conditioners Efficiently
To save energy, set your air conditioner to a reasonable temperature (24–26°C) rather than cooling the house excessively Close all doors and windows when the air conditioning is running to prevent cool air from escaping Use a programmable thermostat or smart system to regulate the temperature and ensure it’s not running when no one’s home
Maximise Natural Ventilation
Take advantage of Australia’s cooler early mornings or evenings by opening windows and doors to let in the fresh air Create cross-ventilation by opening windows on opposite sides of the house Once the outdoor temperature rises, close windows and draw curtains to trap the cooler air inside
Block Out Heat
Prevent the sun’s heat from entering your home by using curtains, blinds, or shades, especially during the hottest parts of the day Outdoor shading like awnings, shutters, or shade sails can help block direct sunlight before it enters your home Planting trees or using plants around windows can also provide natural cooling
Use Energy-Efficient Appliances
When using appliances, opt for energy-efficient models, which use less power Minimize oven use in the summer, as it generates heat, making your air conditioner work harder Instead, use microwaves, slow cookers, or outdoor barbecues Unplug appliances like TVs and chargers when they’re not in use, as they still consume electricity in standby mode
Switch to LED Lighting
Switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and produce less heat. This can help keep your home cooler. During the day, maximize natural sunlight instead of turning on lights
Reduce Pool Pump Energy Use
If you have a pool, the pump can consume a lot of electricity. Reduce its operating time to 6–8 hours a day, especially during off-peak hours when energy rates are lower Alternatively, consider upgrading to an energy-efficient or variable-speed pool pump, which uses less power and can be adjusted based on your needs
Maintain Cooling Systems
Regular maintenance of your air conditioning system improves efficiency Clean or replace air filters frequently to ensure proper airflow and less strain on the unit. Service the air conditioner annually to keep it running at peak performance Also, check doors and windows for air leaks and seal them to prevent cool air from escaping
Consider Solar Power
Australia’s abundant sunshine makes solar energy an excellent way to reduce electricity costs Installing solar panels can generate clean energy to power your home and reduce your reliance on the electricity grid You can also use solar-powered devices like outdoor lights or fans, which are easy to install and save energy.
Use Off-Peak Electricity
Many energy providers offer lower rates during off-peak hours (often late at night or early in the morning). To take advantage of this, run appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during these times This not only reduces your energy costs but also eases the strain on the power grid during peak usage times
LOCAL BUSINESS HIGHLIGHT
Based in the stunning Barossa Valley, BIG4 Barossa Tourist Park has a range of accommodation options to suit all types of travellers and budgets We have everything from powered and ensuite suites, cabins to suit all groups, and now we even have a brand-new tiny home! We also have pet friendly cabins, so make sure you bring your four-legged family member along too!
The BIG4 Barossa Tourist Park is wholly owned by The Barossa Council, along with its surrounding sporting ovals and playing surfaces, Sports and Function Centre and Coulthard Reserve. The delegation of management of the precinct sits with a Board of local Volunteers who come together monthly to oversee the success of the community asset. The BIG4 Barossa Tourist Park is approaching it’s 90th year of business, and is also displays the Kaesler Motorhome which was one of the first two motorhomes to ever be built in Australia.
At BIG4 Barossa Tourist Park, we have a range of accommodation options to suit everybody. We have heaps to keep the family entertained including a heated swimming pool, a huge adventure playground, a half basketball court, 6 tennis courts, 2 ovals, pedal karts, a meeting room and more! We also have access from our park to the beautiful Coulthard Reserve, take a stroll along the beautiful tree lined pathways or take the kids for a bike ride!
You can see our Business Highlight video of Big 4 Barossa by scanning the QR code!
Over these warm summer months, we will be having food trucks in the park most weekends! Including a beautiful little coffee van coming in on the weekends and throughout most of the school holidays We also on occasion get wineries in to offer tastings to our guests on the lawn by the pool, on a warm summers night, what more could you want!
Brokers Guide
Everything you need to know about purchasing your first home as told by Tamara Parker
Grants, Tips, and Resources
Owning a home is a cherished goal for many South Australians, but for first-time buyers, navigating the property market can feel overwhelming With property prices rising and the cost of living increasing, achieving the dream of home ownership requires careful planning, sound advice, and possibly a little help from government schemes. Fortunately, South Australia offers several initiatives to make buying your first home easier.
Here’s what you need to know to get started on your journey to owning your first home
Making the Dream a Reality
Buying a first home is one of life’s most significant milestones, but it’s not without challenges Local mortgage broker, Tamara Parker suggests starting with a clear plan “Setting a budget is crucial,” says Tamara. “Understand your income, expenses, and savings goals. Remember to account for hidden costs like legal fees, stamp duty, and inspections ”
“Having a good team of professionals around you are incredibly important. Seek guidance from your mortgage broker, local real estate agents, and legal professionals like a conveyancer ”
Research the Market
Knowing what’s available in your price range and chosen location will give you confidence during the buying process
Securing pre-approval for a loan is another critical step “Pre-approval not only tells you how much you can borrow, but it also shows real estate agents that you ’ re serious, however not all lenders do a fully assessed pre-approval” Tamara explains
Government support for First-Time Buyers
Several government initiatives are designed to lighten the financial burden of first-time buyers in South Australia
First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) Eligible first-time buyers can receive a $15,000 grant for building a new home While the grant is not available for established homes, it’s a substantial boost for those looking to invest in a newly built property.
When constructing a new building, government stamp duty is calculated based solely on the land value, whereas when purchasing an established property, it is calculated on the entire purchase price So, there are massive savings on government fees when building
HomeStart Finance
The state government’s lending agency offers tailored solutions for first-home buyers, including low deposit loans and shared equity options. “HomeStart helps buyers enter the market sooner,” says Tamara “It’s particularly helpful for those who may struggle with the upfront costs ”
First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS)
This federal program allows eligible buyers to secure a loan with a deposit as low as 5% without paying lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI). However, places are limited, so acting quickly is essential.
Steps to Success
- Aim to save at least 20% plus fees of the property’s price to avoid LMI, though government schemes can reduce this burden
- Family home guarantees can help you save on Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) when you don’t have a large deposit. Consider talking to the “bank of Mum and Dad” to see if they are willing to use some of their home equity as security for your home loan
- Ensure your purchase aligns with your financial and lifestyle goals.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to local broker, Tamara.
Summer Home Maintenance Checklist
As summer approaches in South Australia, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the hot and dry months ahead. With temperatures soaring and the risk of bushfires increasing, a proactive approach to home maintenance can save time, money, and stress in the long run. Here’s a comprehensive summer home maintenance checklist tailored to the unique climate of South Australia
1. Check and Clean Gutters and Downpipes
Summer storms can bring sudden heavy rainfall, and having clean gutters ensures that water is properly directed away from your home
Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling, which may damage roofing and foundations In bushfire-prone areas, debris in gutters can also be a fire hazard, as dry leaves and twigs are highly flammable
Tip: Install gutter guards to minimise leaf build-up and reduce the frequency of cleaning.
2. Inspect Roof for Damage
The intense heat of the Australian summer can exacerbate any existing roof damage Inspect your roof for cracked, loose, or missing tiles or sheets Tin roofs can expand and contract with temperature changes, leading to gaps or leaks Addressing minor issues now can prevent costly repairs later
3. Prepare Your Garden for Bushfire Season
For homeowners, preparing your garden is critical Clear away any dead vegetation, dry leaves, or branches, as they can act as fuel during a fire. Ensure that trees and shrubs are well-maintained and that there's a safe buffer zone around your home.
Tip: Plant fire-retardant plants like succulents and keep firewood and flammable materials away from the house.
4. Check External Doors and Windows
As the heat intensifies, ensure that your home is well-sealed to keep cool air in and hot air out. Check doors and windows for any gaps or leaks that might affect insulation and drive up energy costs. Consider installing weather stripping to improve energy efficiency.
Tip: Double-glazed windows are ideal for homes in regions with extreme heat and can provide better insulation.
5. Inspect Outdoor Decking and Furniture
The sun's UV rays can cause timber decking and outdoor furniture to fade and crack over time Give your deck a thorough clean, and reapply sealant or stain if necessary to protect it from the harsh summer elements Similarly, inspect outdoor furniture for any damage and clean it to remove dust and dirt that can build up over winter
Barossa Regional Home Maintenance
Barossa Regional Home Maintenance
With over twenty year’s experience in home maintenance, Barossa Regional Home Maintenance can help you out with whatever you need.
6. Maintain Your Home’s Paintwork
A fresh coat of paint not only improves your home’s appearance but also protects it from the elements Over time, the hot Australian sun can cause paint to crack and peel, particularly on the north and west-facing walls Touch up areas where the paint is damaged to avoid further deterioration
Tip: Use high-quality, UV-resistant paint that’s suitable for the South Australian climate.
7. Test Smoke Alarms and Safety Equipment
With the increased bushfire risk during summer, it's essential to ensure that your smoke alarms are working correctly Test each alarm, replace the batteries if necessary, and ensure you have fire extinguishers on hand, especially if you live in bushfire zones Check that garden hoses are in good condition and can reach all corners of your property
8. Pest Control
Summer is prime time for pests like termites, ants, and flies. Inspect your home for any signs of infestation, such as wood damage, termite mud tunnels, or ant nests. Taking early action can prevent larger pest problems down the line, especially termites, which are a significant threat to homes.
Tip: Schedule a professional termite inspection at least once a year, particularly if you live in an area prone to infestations.
9. Clean and Maintain Pools
If you have a swimming pool, now’s the time to ensure it’s ready for a season of use. Clean the pool thoroughly, check the pH and chemical levels, and ensure that the pump and filtration systems are working efficiently. For those with saltwater pools, inspect the chlorinator and clean it if necessary.
10. Seal Outdoor Paving and Driveways
South Australia’s extreme summer heat can cause cracks in concrete or stone paving, leading to structural issues and aesthetic damage Inspect your driveway and paths for cracks, and fill them in to prevent further damage
Applying a sealer to outdoor surfaces will help protect them from heat damage and extend their lifespan
Century 21 Charity Gala
EMERALD WAY CHARITY HOME
What a day we had at the Mawson Lakes Hotel. Century 21 raised $25,000 for the Emerald Way Charity Home - with a block of land donated by Joe Belperio & Urban Edge building a stunning home! We enjoyed a fun-filled day with a live and silent auction, exciting raffles, a wine wall, and amazing giveaways – all in support of Variety and helping children in need A massive thank you to all of the Century 21 Offices and networks who donated and bought auction items! Stay tuned for auction details of this phenomenal home in early 2025 that will have a no reserve auction with all proceeds going back to Variety SA.
Scan the QR Code to donate!
In conjunction with Joe Belperio, Owner and Director of Emerald Way Mount Barker, construction company Urban Edge SA, led by Director Ameen Farah and Century 21 South Australia, we would like to introduce you to the 'The Amelie'. The Amelie is a luxury two-story home located on Emerald Way in Mount Barker. Set on a 495m2 block donated by Joe Belperio, and constructed by Urban Edge SA who have donated their time and resources. The 'Amelie' will head to auction in early 2025, but the best part? It will be a no-reserve auction, that's right- no reserve so every bid counts. All proceeds will support Variety SA, a charity aiding sick, disadvantaged, or disabled children Attending the walk-through of this project and speaking to all of those involved, Greg Nybo, Principal/Owner from Century 21 Property People said "This no reserve auction means the highest bid will secure the home, maximizing funds for the charity. We're thrilled to have Tom Panos, as seen on Channel 9's The Block, as our auctioneer, which should attract a great crowd "
Each Century 21 South Australia office will be fundraising with the plan to make as much money for Variety SA as possible, including us! We know that it is a tough time for many people at the moment however, any little bit helps
