Articles
- Show all categories
- Uncategorized
- Home Styling
- Selling Tips
- Selling Your Home
- Decluttering
- Perth Suburbs
- Selling Perth
- Perth Realestate
- Bicton
- Buying Perth
- Buying Tips
- Community
- Landlord Information
- North Perth
- Property Management
- Fremantle
- Hilton
- Applecross Real Estate
- Lifestyle
- Renovation
- Elevate
- Renovate for profit
- Renovation Service
- Buyers Agent
Sep 14, 2023
Renovate for profit or Renovate to retain?
The Benefits of Boutique Real Estate Services: Elevate Your Property with Mi Casa In the bustling real estate market of Perth, Australia, there's a growing demand for personalised, boutique services that go beyond the traditional. At Elevate by Mi Casa, we recognise this shift and are proud to lead the way. Homeowners and investors alike are no longer seeking just a transaction; they're looking for a partnership, a guiding hand that truly understands their unique needs and aspirations. That's why we've introduced our specialised renovation services. Whether you're looking to renovate for profit or to retain, we have a service tailored just for you. 1. Personalised Approach: At Elevate by Mi Casa, we pride ourselves on offering a personalised service. Unlike larger firms where clients might feel like just another number, our boutique approach ensures a more tailored experience. This means understanding your specific needs, preferences, and long-term goals. 2. Renovate for Profit: The Perth property market is dynamic, and to stand out, properties need to be showcased in the best possible light. Our 'renovate for profit' service is designed for those looking to sell their property. By making strategic renovations, we can transform properties to appeal to the current market trends, thereby maximising the potential return on investment. This service is not just about making a property look good; it's about understanding the market, the potential buyers, and making changes that will drive up the property's value. 3. Renovate to Retain: Not everyone is looking to sell. Some homeowners have found their forever home but wish to make it truly theirs. Others might have recently purchased a property and want to make changes before moving in. Our 'renovate to retain' service is perfect for these homeowners. Whether it's a simple facelift or a complete overhaul, we ensure that renovations align with your vision and enhance the property's long-term value. 4. Expertise and Knowledge: With Elevate by Mi Casa, you're partnering with experts. We understand the local market, the latest design trends, and have a network of trusted professionals to get the job done. This expertise ensures that renovations not only look good but are also functional and add real value to the property. 5. Cost-Effective Solutions: One might think that personalised services come with a hefty price tag, but with Elevate by Mi Casa, that's not the case. With our in-depth knowledge of the market and a vast network of professionals, we often find cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality. 6. Peace of Mind: Renovating a property, whether for profit or personal use, can be stressful. By choosing Elevate by Mi Casa, you can have peace of mind knowing that experts are handling every aspect of the project, from planning to execution. The real estate landscape in Perth is evolving, and at Elevate by Mi Casa, we're at the forefront of this change. Our personalised approach and specialised renovation offerings set us apart. Whether you're looking to maximise profits or create your dream home, we have a service tailored just for you. So, the next time you think of renovating, consider the benefits of partnering with a team that truly cares about your vision and goals. Elevate your property with Mi Casa.
Sep 14, 2023
Spring Selling Season: How to Prepare Your Home for the Market
Spring is synonymous with new beginnings. As flowers bloom and trees regain their green, many homeowners consider this the ideal time to put their property on the market. If you're one of them, ensuring your home stands out to potential buyers is crucial. Here's a guide to help you prepare: 1. Conduct a Home Review Before anything else, take a detailed walk-through of your property. This isn't just a casual stroll; it's an opportunity to view your home through a buyer's eyes. Create a room-by-room action list, noting down areas that need repairs, a fresh coat of paint, or just a bit of sprucing up. 2. Depersonalise Your Space While your family photos and personal mementos hold immense value to you, they might make it challenging for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space. Aim to present your home as a blank canvas. Store away personal items, allowing buyers to imagine building their own memories there. 3. Declutter and Organise A cluttered space can be off-putting. Remove excess furniture and items that might make rooms feel cramped. Not only does this make the space feel bigger, but it also gives you a head start on packing. Remember, less is often more when showcasing a home. 4. Get a Head Start on Packing Speaking of packing, why wait until the last minute? Begin packing non-essential items early on. This reduces stress as the moving date approaches and helps in presenting a neat, organised home to potential buyers. 5. Seek Professional Assistance Selling a home isn't a one-person job. Enlisting help can make the process smoother and more efficient. Did you know many professionals offer home organising services? These experts can provide invaluable advice on presenting your home in the best light. Talk to us today about finding someone who can help you in this area. Bonus Tip: Refresh Your Garden Spring is all about nature's beauty. A well-maintained garden can significantly enhance your property's appeal. Mow the lawn, trim the hedges, and consider planting some seasonal flowers for a burst of colour. Selling your home in spring is a strategic move. With more daylight hours and the natural beauty of the season, homes often appear more inviting. However, it's essential to put in the effort to ensure your property stands out in this market. By following the above tips and seeking professional guidance, you'll be well on your way to a successful sale. Ready to Spring into Action? ? Don't let the season pass without maximising your home's potential. For more tailored advice and a comprehensive guide on preparing your property, book a consultation with our experts today.
Aug 8, 2023
The Settlement Journey: A guide for homebuyers
The Settlement Journey: A Guide for Homebuyers Buying a home is a significant milestone in anyone's life, and for first-time buyers, it can be both thrilling and overwhelming. The settlement process, in particular, may seem complex and time-consuming. To ease the burden and help you navigate this journey with confidence, we have put together this informative timeline. Here's a step-by-step guide to what is required from you, the purchaser, when buying a house. Step 1: Making the Offer When you find a house that captures your heart, approach the sales agent and request an Offer Form or Contract of Sale. Take your time to carefully review the document, ensuring that all special conditions are included, and any changes are initialed. Most importantly, remember to nominate your chosen settlement agent as your Conveyancer on page 2 of the Contract of Sale. Step 2: Congratulations! Your Offer is Accepted The seller has accepted your offer, and now it's time to ensure all the conditions outlined in your offer are met for the smooth settlement of the transaction. Start by paying the deposit to the Selling Agent's trust account. Additionally, promptly send the Contract of Sale to your settlement agent. If your offer included conditions for a timber, pest, or building inspection, take immediate action to arrange these inspections and send us the results for verification. For those who have included a finance clause, waste no time in commencing your finance application with your broker. Keep us informed of your progress and let us know when you receive finance approval. Don't forget to plan your final inspection with the Selling Agent and set up new gas and electricity accounts in preparation for the move. Step 3: Securing Finance Approval Once you have received finance approval, it's time to take the following steps: Sign all settlement documents Sign all bank contracts Prepare your funds for settlement At this point, you can entrust your settlement agent to handle the settlement process on your behalf. Step 4: Settlement Day On the day of settlement, relax and let your settlement agent handle the intricacies. They'll ensure all necessary steps are taken care of so that you can focus on the excitement of owning your new home. Once settlement is complete, you can collect the keys from the sales agent and embark on your new journey as a homeowner. The home buying journey, especially the settlement process, can be complex, but with careful planning and the right guidance, it can also be an exciting and rewarding experience. By following this handy timeline and relying on the expertise of your settlement agent, you can confidently navigate the settlement journey and soon call yourself a proud homeowner. Congratulations on taking this important step towards securing your dream home!
Apr 20, 2023
Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve: A Family Centred Playground in Applecross
When buying a home in Applecross many prospective buyers want to know about the local attractions. In this series of posts we explore some of our favourites and where better to start that the picturesque Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve – a true gem for both locals and visitors alike. Located at 58 Duncraig Road, this beautiful reserve offers an abundance of activities, history, and natural beauty that make it a perfect spot for families and individuals to unwind and enjoy their surroundings. As part of our blog series on things to do in and around Applecross, let's delve into what makes Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve so special. Rich Natural Habitat Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve is home to a thriving seagrass habitat, which serves as a sanctuary and food source for various marine species such as school prawns, blue-swimmer crabs, gobbleguts, and seahorses. This spot also provides an excellent vantage point for observing bottlenose dolphins as they chase mullet up the Swan and Canning rivers or take advantage of the fish habitat created by the South of Perth Yacht Club. Cultural and Historical Significance The reserve holds great importance to the Whadjuk Nyoongar people as it was once a men's ceremonial site. The western side of Heathcote, extending down to Waylen Bay, is known as Kooyagardup, which translates to "the place of the big nose frog" in Nyoongar. Nowadays, this area is a popular spot for family picnics and barbecues. Visitors can also explore the café, museum, and gallery located within Heathcote Reserve and learn more about its history along the western cliff face footpath. The Pirate Ship Playground A major attraction in Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve is the pirate ship playground, consistently rated as one of the best play spaces in the local area. This impressive playground offers a variety of engaging activities, such as walkways, climbing walls, slides, monkey bars, and a fireman's pole. Additionally, the playground features three sets of swings and a section dedicated to musical instruments, steering wheels, and periscopes, all in line with the nautical theme. Amenities and Surroundings For those looking to enjoy a picnic or celebrate a special occasion, Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve is well-equipped with barbecue facilities and picnic tables. Clean restrooms and changing facilities are conveniently located nearby, and the kiosk serves coffee and snacks for those in need of refreshments. If the kiosk is closed, the nearby BWG restaurant offers takeaway options. The reserve also boasts stunning views of the Swan River and the city, making it a perfect spot to relax and soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Visitors can easily spend several hours at Goolugatup Heathcote Reserve, enjoying everything it has to offer. Goolugatup is a true Applecross treasure, offering a diverse range of activities, natural beauty, and cultural significance. Whether you're a local or just visiting the area, don't miss the opportunity to explore this stunning reserve and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Mar 30, 2023
WA Property market update 2023
We are pleased to share with you some insights and resources on the WA property market, particularly on how it will be affected by the recent interest rate rise. According to our CEO Cath Hart, the WA property market has strong local market fundamentals that will cushion the impact of the interest rate rise. WA's economy is strong, unemployment is low, there is population growth, and affordable housing options are available. All these factors will continue to support the market in the long term. While other states have already seen a significant decline in property prices, we remain optimistic about the WA market. As Ms. Hart explained, history shows that WA's property market is often out of cycle with the east coast, and that the current situation is not an exception. One reason for WA's resilience is the subdued effect of the COVID pandemic on the property market, which means there has been less of a correction compared to other capitals that saw dramatic increases in property values. We encourage you to seek local sources of information, particularly from REIWA, to better understand the market. Our agents have specialised knowledge of the WA market and are in touch with what is happening in their respective areas. While the interest rate rise will have some impact, it is not the only factor that affects the property market. We predict that there will be a period of adjustment, but we are maintaining our expectation of low to moderate growth over the course of the whole year in the range of 2-5%. If you're thinking of buying or selling a property, don't hesitate to contact our agents who can provide you with personalized advice based on your specific needs. Stay updated on the latest WA property news by subscribing to our newsletter.
Nov 8, 2022
Improving curb appeal for your property value
How landscaping can impact a home's value in today's market. 2022 is still a seller's market and if you are looking to take advantage you must note what buyers have on their predetermined list as a home's must-have features when looking for value in a home. Good landscaping is seen as an essential good first impression for property owners, it sets the tone for the rest of the home. While poor landscaping or curb appeal can have a negative impact and decrease the property value by a substantial amount. If you are selling a home, you cannot overlook the importance of the first impressions, as this can impact the dollar value you receive. Adding certain landscaping elements such as healthy trees, grass, and flowers, can help raise property value. Key insights for adding value: Real estate agents say poor landscaping and hardscaping negatively affect property values Trees are predominantly the landscaping element that adds the most value to a home Adding one healthy tree can have a huge impact on the property value There is one sure way to decrease a home's value and that is to neglect your home's landscaping. Living in a harsher environment such as Perth, it takes that little extra care and time to present your curb in a manner that will provide that great first look and set the precedence for the rest of the home. Areas to focus on can include: General watering of grass and plants Remove weeds Add in colour and varying heights Keep grass well trimmed There’s no question that landscaping elements like trees, grass, and flowers add a lot of visual appeal to a home, but just how much does their absence affect what a home is worth? When buyers observe a neglected lawn or home without any additional curb appeal, potential buyers get can immediately get the idea that the home was not well maintained. This can set a pre-determined value of the home in their mind based on that and unfortunately it is usually not a good price. On the other hand, a neat, clean lawn puts the buyers' minds at ease. In today's elevated real estate market even a small decrease in price means a seller could be thousands of dollars worse off, just by not keeping their front lawn well maintained when getting the property ready for market. Buyers in today's market are generally time-poor and therefore expect the homes to be move-in ready when they purchase, the idea of having to do extra work on top of the move-in process can be extremely off-putting to the potential purchaser. The items that can add the most value to a home are trees, grass, and flowers while hard landscaping aspects such as decks, driveways, and outdoor kitchens can also positively or negatively impact the value depending on their perceived state. For more landscaping ideas and tips head on over to our preferred landscaper's page. More value-adding ideas here
Nov 4, 2022
Perth home values show resilience in October
Perth Property Market October Review CoreLogic’s Perth home value index decreased 0.2 per cent in October, the smallest decline out of all capital cities in Australia. REIWA CEO Cath Hart said the Perth property market continues to be resilient compared to other states and credits the strong Western Australian economy, resources sector and housing affordability. “It is pleasing to see Perth home values were relatively stable in October. To put things into perspective, Brisbane’s home value index declined 2.0 per cent and Sydney’s declined 1.3 per cent,” Ms Hart said. “The main drivers for this are the low level of stock and our affordability, with Perth median house prices the cheapest of any capital city - there is nothing in the Perth property market right now indicating that house prices will fall drastically any time soon.” The top performing suburbs for house price growth in October were Quinns Rocks (up 3.6 per cent to $570,000), Warnbro (up 2.5 per cent to $410,000), Hamilton Hill (up 2.2 per cent to $595,000), Currambine (up 1.9 per cent to $655,000) and Butler (up 1.9 per cent to $420,000). The other suburbs to record strong house price growth were Pearsall, Rockingham, South Perth, Stirling and Padbury. Listings for sale in October There were 8,169 properties for sale on reiwa.com at the end of October. This is almost identical to last month’s figure of 8,155 and is 5.9 per cent lower than levels seen a year ago. “We are still experiencing a housing and labour shortage concurrently, which is resulting in good outcomes for sellers but competitive conditions for those wanting to buy,” Ms Hart said. “With the population continuing to grow this is adding pressure on an already strained housing market, and it will remain this way until we have more housing stock. This demand for housing is expected to keep market conditions strong.” Time on market The median time to sell a house was 15 days during October. reiwa.com data revealed the fastest-selling suburbs in October were Camillo and Golden Bay (five days), followed by Safety Bay, Warnbro, Langford, Orelia, Carlisle, Huntingdale (six days) with Seville Grove and the only north of the river suburb Padbury recording a median of seven days to sell. “We are still seeing Perth houses being snapped up at a remarkable rate, with no indication of it slowing down despite interest rate rises,” Ms Hart said. “In a balanced market the median time to sell a home would be 30-40 days, so a median of 15 days really means prospective buyers should have all their ducks in a row to avoid missing out,” Ms Hart said. Perth rental market Median rent price Perth’s median rent price was $500 per week during October, which is $5 more than September. “Rents will continue to rise in Perth while there is a rental shortage. We urgently need more investors in the market to help provide housing and ensure we keep rents affordable,” Ms Hart said. Median leasing times in October It took a median of 15 days to lease a rental during October. Suburbs recording the fastest median leasing times were Hamilton Hill and Hammond Park (seven days), followed by Quinns Rocks (eight days), then Port Kennedy, Coolbellup, Carlisle, Aveley, Beckenham, Applecross (10 days) and Nollamara (11 days). Listings for rent There were 1,658 properties for rent on reiwa.com at the end of October, down 3.8 per cent from September, and 23 per cent lower than October 2021. “The rental shortage remains a critical issue for the WA rental market. We have been working with the Government to achieve a sensible outcome to the RTA Review that updates the legislation without scaring off existing owners and would-be investors, as this would add even more pressure to the WA rental market at the worst possible time,” Ms Hart said. “Whilst the rental shortage continues to produce significant challenges for many West Aussies, we must not forget how resilient our property market is. We have one of the strongest economies in the world, and the most affordable housing market in the country. These strong demand factors coupled with the low supply suggest that any large price falls predicted for the east coast will just not be the case for WA.” Realising the potential of your property For more information follow this link to the REIWA website
Oct 28, 2022
Realising the potential of your property
Renovation for profit When this property came to us situated in the heart of Bicton we knew it was going to be very popular with the astute buyer. The seller was hesitant to invest in the property and was ready to move on. However, our sales agent saw there was so much potential and knew just what the property needed to make it shine. Our agents have the skill set, knowledge, and buyer insight to provide our sellers with an educated approach to selling their home to ensure it reaches their best and highest potential. By demonstrating this knowledge and experience our seller trusted in the process and was willing to make the change. With some great planning and efficient trades, we were able to turn this house into a home. Family Friendly Residence Our dedicated projects team took the time to assess the property and determine which upgrades and changes would have the greatest impact. These changes included: Painting internal and external, Kitchen splashback, Hybrid flooring, Tile removal and carpet relay, curtains & blinds. Check out the property before and afters here: And the figures: Want to find out more about this bespoke service that we offer as part of our selling process, then get in touch today. " It was an absolute pleasure buying our new home through Thomas. From the moment we met Thomas he was open with his knowledge and really made us feel informed and supported. Thomas is an agent who it is easy to tell really cares about his clients and has a passion for his job. Thomas will go above and beyond to assist all parties that he works with. He is adept at building a relationship with not only the seller, but also the buyer so that all the parties feel comfortable with the whole process. In the current market where, as a buyer it can feel overwhelming and rushed to make huge decisions, it was extremely reassuring to be dealing with Thomas who you felt you could get honest responses from. He was great at pre-empting any potential issues and his energy and enthusiasm is infectious, as well as being extremely efficient and thorough in every matter. I would highly recommend Thomas as agent to my own friends and family. Thank you Thomas for all your hard work making the purchase of our new home such a stress free and happy experience!" Find out more about Mi Casa here