My Mountain Home - Edition 7

home.home.

HOWTOPREPAREYOUR HOMEFORAUTUMN

Just as you start to put the layers on as temperatures fall, your home might need a few more layers too.

HOWTOMAKEABALLFOOTCOFFEETABLE

A simple DIY project,  made from the most unexpected of materials

WHATTODOIFI'M STRUGGLINGTOPAYMY MORTGAGE

Small changes can help to get your budget back on track and alleviate any stress in both the short and long term.

Presented by LJ Hooker Tamborine Mountain PresentedMountain

As the RBA continues to raise interest rates, the most asked question we are getting right now is “what is happening in the market, and when will the rate increases stop?”.

LJ Hooker Group Head of Research Mathew Tiller says the RBA’s current cycle of cash rate increases may finish during the first quarter of 2023.

This will see buyers who have been sitting on the sidelines jump into the market before any upswing in property prices, and those considering selling should start preparing their homes over the summer break and importantly have their home appraised.

“It is not one homogeneous market in Australia, there are a lot of individual markets and every suburb performs differently – vendors need an understanding of what is happening in their particular area,” Mr Tiller said.

“The best results are being achieved for homes in a good location, priced well and well-marketed. Look at what can be done to make your property more appealing to buyers and seek advice from the experts.”

The rental market is still a hot topic with rental affordability making headlines in the news and on social media. We are starting to see more investors coming into the market which is great news for tenants, who will soon have more properties to choose from. Asking prices have also started to stablise in a lot of markets, which is great news for would-be tenants.

If you have been thinking about investing, we have a 7 Steps to Wealth seminar coming up on the 21st of February. This is a completely free webinar that will help you navigate the real estate market, and we have the registration links included in this newsletter.

If you have any questions, our teams are available any time to talk about the property market, and hep you on your real estate journey.

HowtoPrepareYourHomefor AutumnHowAutumn

Autumn is here, and just as you start to put the layers on as temperatures fall, your home might need a few more layers too. That's why we created the autumn home checklist. Now that cooler months have arrived, what do you need to do for your property?

1.Keeptheheatin Autumn is the time when temperatures start to fall, so we want to keep in all the heat that we can. Just as you would sew up any holes in sweaters or jackets, cover the holes in your home. That means getting a good sealer and going around areas where heat could escape, li

ke doors and windows, and filling in any cracks that arise. Watch out for any older windows as these are often the worst offenders for letting in drafts.

2.Checkoutyourroof

It is probably best to get an expert to help you with this job as it can be dangerous. But getting up and checking that the tiles on the roof are all in good condition and not damaged is an important job to do at least once a year before the weather gets drizzly. If you have any broken tiles, get them fixed by an expert as leaving them can result in more extensive damage to your property. Also while you (or someone) is up there, check the seals around vents and chimneys are not worn out and if they are, seal them up.

3.Managethemoisture

One issue that typically arises in the coming months is the buildup of moisture. As rains fall harder and the temperature drops, it becomes more difficult to keep spaces dry, which can create fertile conditions for mould and other bacteria. One way of tackling this is with a dehumidifier, but keep yours maintained. It is likely worth giving yours a once-over this autumn, starting with a cleaning and emptying of your water intake, as well as checking the cleanliness of your air grills.

4.Cleanthekitchen

One of our favourite things about colder months is the menu - in particular, those hearty weekend roasts where the slow cooking of potatoes and lamb gives the whole living area some fantastic warmth and flavour. Of course, to get a roast going perfectly you will need a clean oven, and this is something that many people can neglect over summer. Devoting a few hours to properly cleaning out your oven will help it function better, resulting in better meals for you and anyone you live with.

5.Createsomecompost

One of the most iconic images of autumn is the golden leaves falling from trees. Raking up all of these and preparing them for compost is a great way to turn one of the messiest parts of autumn into a fantastic and productive part of the home. Leaves are a wonderful source of nutrients, and by gathering them all up you could see a thriving compost heap for your yard.

6.Consideryourlawn

If you're someone who puts the lawnmower into hibernation for winter, remember to empty the fuel canisters. This is one for a little later in the seasons we think, but it's always good to keep in mind. Changing the oil and giving it a thorough clean are also good tasks to keep in mind before you put it away in the garage.

7.Bringoutthecosycomforts

Curling up with a movie or good book is much nicer when the weather is foul outside, so why not "autumn-ise" your family room. Add some warm throws or perhaps change the cushion covers. Having a set of autumn cushion covers in warmer colours like taupes, reds and oranges, or heavier wintery material can really make your room feel cosy and inviting.

8.Floweringplants

Just because the leaves are starting to change colour and falling off the trees, it doesn't mean your garden needs to be void of colour. Head to your local flower market and pick up some seasonal flowering plants and either add them to your front entrance area in pots or if you feel really inspired plant them around your garden beds.

9.Warmupthebeds

Pull out those heavier blankets, quilts and doonas from the cupboards and get them ready for the colder nights that are coming.

coming.

There are tasks you can do all year around to keep your house in fantastic shape, and ideas like these are very handy for general maintenance. It helps you keep facades beautiful, and who knows - if you have one eye on the spring selling season, these acts could entice more buyers to come and check out your property.

128 Licuala Drive128Drive TamborineMountainTamborineMountain

Tastefullyrenovated,immaculatelypresentedplusviews overGuanabaGorge

LocatedattheendofaquietandleafyCulDe-Sac,thissolidlybuilthomewith itsimmaculatepresentation,tastefullyrenovatedinteriors,openplandesign filledwithnaturallightandimpressiveviewsoverGuanabaGorge,128Licuala DriveTamborineMountainistheperfecthomeforanyoneseekingamovein ready,privatemountainhideawaywithnothinglefttodo.

Settotherearofitsestablished1009m2blockofland,everycarehasbeen takentoensurethatyouwillenjoyapleasantoutlookfromalmostevery window,ausableandpetfriendlybackgardenareaandaneareffortlessentry intothehomefromthegarage.

Shouldyourequirealittleextraspaceforaworkshop,additionalstorageorto workfromhome,thelarge,concreteareaonthegroundfloorhasthepotential andcouldbeeasilyconvertedintotheidealspace.

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60-64 Benowa Street60-64Street

AcreageLivingatit's BestAcreage Livingatit'sBest

TamborineMountainTamborineMountain

Likebrandnewwithnothinglefttodo,thisfullyrenovatedhomewithlivingon onelevelandapictureperfect2acreblockoflandisreadyandwaitingforyou tomovein,unpackyourbagsandembracewhatcanonlybedescribedas TamborineMountainacreagelivingatitsbest.

Locatedinoneofthearea'smosthighlysoughtafterstreetsandaposition offeringashortandeasywalktolocalcafes,restaurants,StBernardHoteland stateprimaryschool,yourdreamofsecuringahomehiddenawayfromthe hustleandbustle,whilemaintainingconvenientandeasyaccesstomany localfacilitiesisguaranteed.

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Lombok Court17Court

OneofaKindTamborineMountainLifestyleProperty

Welcometo17LombokCourt,TamborineMountain!

Offeredtothemarketforthefirsttime,thisimmaculatelypresentedand impeccablymaintainedhomeoffersauniquelifestyleopportunity,thankstoits completelyprivate44882m2blockoflandwithitsprivateestablishedgarden setting,runningcreekandsomeofthemostbreathtakingviewsovertheGold Coastyouarelikelytosee.

CustombuiltbyoneofTamborineMountain’smostrenownedbuildersand livedinbythecurrentownersfromnew,thelevelofdedicationandcarethat hasbeentakentomaintainthishometothehighestofstandardsisclearly seenuponinspection.

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Offers Over $,,

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17

TamborineMountainTamborineMountain

HowtoMakea

Ball-Foot

CoffeeTable WithGenevaVanderzeil

Some of my favourite projects are made from the most unexpected of materials. And for this one, we will make a super on-trend coffee table. But you will never guess what we will use! I’ve been inspired by the many ball shapes which I have seen in home decor stores. So to create our base, we will use stainless steel mixing bowls!

Whatyouneed

To make this coffee table, you will need:

6 x mixing bowls (I am using some from Ikea)

Cement mix

Liquid nails

Fiberglass tape

Gyprock topping plaster

A pre-cut tabletop

Approximate time: 3 hours (excluding drying time)

Theprojectstepbystep

Step#1

We need to put the bowls together to create our balls. These will make the legs for our coffee table. Start by filling up three bowls with cement powder and waterthen mix.

Step#2

Before letting it set overnight, we need to attach the other bowl to create that ball shape. Use liquid nails and then place the second bowl on top. Secure it into place with tape.

Step#3

Continue using your fibreglass tape to cover the whole bowl. This will create a great surface for plastering.

Step#4

Take some gyprock topping plaster and apply over the whole ball in a thick coat. Leave it to dry for a few days. Once the balls are nice and dry, you can give them a good sand.

Step#5

Now we have our base, we can attach our tabletop. Your local hardware store should have these already pre-cut. Choose a small top for a side table or a larger one for a coffee table.

Step#6

I’m gluing small pieces of wood onto the top of the balls using liquid nails. This will lift the height of the table.

Step#7

Now it’s time to glue on your tabletop. And there you go, your ball-foot coffee table is done! I’ve styled it with some books, an ornament and a small vase.

It is a super easy project, this is a stylish addition to any lounge room.

WhattoDoIfI'mStrugglingToPayMy MortgageWhatMortgage

Managing a mortgage isn’t always easy, especially as life is known to throw some unexpected curve balls now and again. Add rising interest rates, and you may just find yourself under pressure, wondering how to deal with your next home loan repayments. As tempting as it may be to ignore the problem, the last thing you want to do is start skipping monthly repayments. If you are struggling financially, there are many options available that you may not have considered. This doesn’t have to mean selling your home. Small changes can help to get your budget back on track and alleviate any stress in both the short and long term.

Contactyourlender

You may feel reluctant, but the first step if you are having difficulties paying your mortgage is to contact your bank or lender. They may be able to discount rates, waive fees or any extra charges for breaking early access to term deposits or restructure your repayments, such as paying interest-only. Booking an appointment with a mortgage broker might also be worthwhile as they could find a competitive loan from a different lender. If your situation is potentially dire, you could also approach your bank about short-term assistance, known as hardship variations. These measures may give you some breathing space to work out how to best get back onto your feet.

The key is to try not to fall behind in your mortgage repayments. Seek help early if you are feeling worried. Remember, there is always someone to talk to about your situation, and banks have hardship teams who are used to managing these issues. No matter what, don’t try to navigate this situation alone. You are not the first person to ask for help, and you won’t be the last.

Trimthebudget

Now isn’t the time to be subscribing to streaming services or ordering takeaway meals every night. Review your monthly spending habits and look for ways to make cuts to your budget. This includes ringing all of your utility providers, such as electricity, water and gas, to see if you can negotiate a competitive deal. Every dollar may count, and you have nothing to lose by contacting them.

If you are out of work and have income protection insurance, now may be the time to use it. Consider all your options, including taking on a second job until you have paid back any outstanding debt. Maybe move out of the property and rent it out, while you relocate somewhere more affordable until things get better. Even renting out a spare bedroom is another way to generate extra income.

Shouldyousell?

If your repayments are a juggle, another idea is to downsize your mortgage by moving to a more affordable suburb or smaller property. Always seek advice from your local real estate agent, who can provide insight into market conditions. If you have owned your property for a number of years, it is likely you will have good equity in the property.

However, selling may not be the best option if you have only recently purchased or taken loans out against your property.  If your home fetches less than what is owed, you will still need to pay back the outstanding debt. Mortgage insurance – usually taken out with a home loan – only ensures the bank is paid out for any shortfall.

The insurance company is entitled to pursue you to recover their losses.

Beontopofthefineprint

It is easy to lose track of all the fine print associated with your home loan. Even though it may feel overwhelming, take the time to get your paperwork in order. This includes account numbers, type of loan, interest rates, mortgage length and repayment schedule.

Stay on top of what higher interest rates mean for your budget, so there is no surprise when repayments increase. If you apply for assistance from the bank for financial hardship, you will need to explain why you are struggling to make repayments.

Outline any ideas you feel may help to get your finances back on track. Let them know if you are willing to sell assets such as a car to meet your debt. Being realistic about what you can and can’t afford is important

Whattodoifyoureceiveadefaultnotice

Never ignore important documentation and seek advice immediately. Everyone is able to access free financial counselling by calling the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007. These are skilled professionals who are able to review your situation, provide practical advice and will also help to negotiate with creditors.

The Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)may also be able to provide some assistance if you are unable to resolve the issue with your lender. They will try to reach a settlement between the client and the financial firm through negotiation or conciliation. Lenders are not able to enforce proceedings if a complaint has been lodged with the AFCA (contact them on 1800 931 678).

You can also access free specialist credit law advice through Community Legal Centres – each State/Territory has a different provider. You can also contact Legal Aid, who will be able to assist. Remember, banks deal with customers going through financial hardships every day, so even though it may feel awkward ringing, they will be able to provide expert advice. If refinancing your home loan, ensure any new agreement will be manageable. Don’t rush into anything you find uncomfortable. It can also help to find someone you trust and who can act as a sounding board when making decisions about your financial future.

Properties for SalePropertiesSale

MountainG.O.A.T.S

(gooutandTamborinesightsee)

TamborineMountainCountryMarkets

What: A unique and exciting shopping experience on Tamborine Mountain. The Tamborine Mountain Country Markets are a feast of craft and food, fresh produce and artisan goods.. The Markets are a great day out, and a fantastic place to shop for that special occasion. With great food outlets, and packed with things to see and do, the Tamborine Mountain Country Markets are a value packed day for the whole family.

Where:Tamborine Mountain Show Grounds - 386-398 Main Western Road, Tamborine Mountain

When: Held on the second Sunday of the month

TheGreenShedProduceMarkets

What:Local growers gather in The Green Shed to deliver their homegrown produce. The market is run by the Tamborine Mountain Local Producers Association, a not-forprofit group of mostly mountain-dwelling retirees with one thing in common — a passion for growing organic vegies.

Where: Tamborine Mountain Show Grounds - 386-398 Main Western Road, Tamborine Mountain

When:Every Sunday morning from 7:00am - 12:00pm

TamborineMountainStateSchoolMarkets

and while

What: Situated on the picturesque Tamborine Mountain, we are a wonderfully diverse, character-filled market overflowing with things to adore. At our Markets you will find up to 125 stalls from local artists, crafts people, fresh produce, plants, books, clothing, vintage items, collectibles, jewellery, bric a brac, candles, crystals…. the list is endless and always changing. Whether you are browsing or buying, come along and treat yourself to some of our deliciously tasty food while enjoying the live music and friendly mountain atmosphere.

Where: Tamborine Mountain Show Grounds - 386-398 Main Western Road, Tamborine Mountain

When:Last Sunday of the month from 7:00am - 1:00pm

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