COMMENTARY O C T O B E R – N O V E M B E R 2 0 1 3
unpack in the first place! I was moving to a different complex less than 2 kms away, at the Sanlitun SOHO. The reason was quite simple. While the property provided everything I could wish for internally, the surrounding area lacked all the external amenities I required in order to enjoy the quality of life that is essential for any expat to maintain some semblance of sanity, such as a good coffee shop, dry-cleaning and fine dining (even a burger would have been welcome every now and again if the truth be told). I was willing to surrender the lease, at no little cost, to relocate to an area that provided all the right amenities for me personally. Despite my expertise in Australian property and an acute understanding of location factors, I paid the price for not knowing, and not seeking advice on the lay of the land in Beijing. If I had done so I would have avoided a potentially costly experience . This is where an understanding of the term location, location, location is absolutely 100% essential for those who are relocating to somewhere new, be it a new neighbourhood, or a new country. The theory and application of a solid knowledge of your location is going to make all the difference to your quality of life. One of the time-worn and tested sayings in the property buying game goes something like ‘is it on the right side of the train tracks?’ Such a fine line, and the margin for error is even finer. If all the amenities and retail opportunties are on the opposite side then you’re definitely on the wrong side of any transaction.
Those living in the west will have higher stress levels and are more prone to accidents. There is also a far older location myth based on sunset and sunrise. In large cities commuters who live in the east have a much easier life than those in the west. The reason is quite simple. The resident from the east goes to work with the sun at their back and returns home in the evening with it setting softly behind them. The eastward traveller has the opposite with the sun ahead and full in their eyes- glare, stopping, starting, horns and havoc. Not the ideal way to either start or end a long and demanding day.
SCOTT O. TALBOT is the Managing Director of UCHK Consulting Limited and one of Australia’s most respected international businessmen, community leaders and philanthropists. He has over 25 years of experience in strategic property investment, business development, politics and philanthropy.
Those living in the west will have higher stress levels and are more prone to accidents. These figures can be verified by insurance companies who confirm that there are more fender benders involve sun-facing drivers. Maybe there is something to this Astrology malarkey after all and the alignment of stars and planets does have a direct impact on your lives – who knew? It all comes back to location, location, location. You can have the plushest apartment within a 10 city block radius, overlooking the most magnificent vistas imaginable, but without the ability to pop down to the shops for some sugar to put in your coffee when you’re taking in the fabulous view, your quality of life takes a dive. The school may be excellent for the children, but there are no parks for them to play in or to take the dog for a walk. All things come in to consideration and are aggregated. This is why some apartments may lack architectural finesse and luxury, but their location is perfect and therefore they provide great investment returns through both capital growth and rental yield. Often property agents rely upon printed materials for their information. A local expert, however, can give an assessment of the area, the amenities and the opportunities. This knowledge, coupled with the building quality and construction, will give you the full picture – as with most things in life knowledge is power. Make sure that you’re in the know before you reach for your chequebook. The view from the balcony can only go so far to providing you with true happiness and a great investment.
UCHK Consulting outlines a clear path for existing and potential property investors to empower them to achieve phenomenal returns on their investments. For more information, or to speak to a qualified consultant in your area, please visit www.property.org.au or email info@uchkconsulting.com.
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