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May 25, 2023
Exceptional Education Opportunities: Applecross Real Estate and Local Schools
Looking to buy a new home in Applecross? Aside from the leafy streets, majestic views and close proximity to the Perth city Applecross and neighbouring suburbs are home to some of Perth’s most prestigious schools that cater to a diverse range of educational needs. In this article, we will explore a number of renowned state and private schools and highlight the exceptional educational opportunities they offer to families in the Applecross area. Investing in Applecross real estate not only means securing a beautiful home but also ensuring your family's educational future. All Saints' College Website: https://www.allsaints.wa.edu.au/ All Saints' College, located in the heart of Applecross, is an esteemed co-educational Anglican school offering education from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12. Founded in 1981, the college has established a strong reputation for its holistic approach to education, fostering the development of students' academic, social, physical, and spiritual dimensions. All Saints', students benefit from a supportive and nurturing environment, where their individual needs and aspirations are prioritized. The college places great emphasis on academic excellence, with a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects, including STEM, humanities, languages, arts, and sports. Aquinas College Website: https://www.aquinas.wa.edu.au/ Located adjacent to Applecross, Aquinas College is a prestigious Catholic boys' school renowned for its long-standing tradition of academic excellence and holistic education. Founded in 1938, Aquinas College has consistently maintained its position as one of Western Australia's leading secondary schools. Aquinas College places a strong emphasis on character development, fostering leadership qualities, and promoting values such as integrity, respect, and service to others. The school encourages students to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, drama, art, and community service programs. Aquinas also offers a range of enrichment programs, including academic competitions, cultural exchanges, and international study tours, providing students with unique opportunities for personal growth and development. Applecross Senior High School Website: https://applecross.wa.edu.au/ Applecross Senior High School is a highly regarded public co-educational institution catering to students from Year 7 to Year 12. With a focus on academic excellence, the school provides a comprehensive curriculum that encompasses a wide range of subjects, including mathematics, sciences, humanities, languages, arts, and vocational education. The school's commitment to fostering holistic development is evident through its extensive extracurricular offerings, including music, drama, sports, clubs, and community service programs. Applecross Senior High School equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen pathways beyond high school. Ardross Primary School Website: https://www.ardrossps.wa.edu.au/ Ardross Primary School, a leading public primary school, prioritizes the growth and well-being of its students from Kindergarten to Year 6. The school focuses on creating a nurturing and supportive environment, encouraging students to develop a love for learning and explore their individual strengths. Ardross Primary School offers a well-rounded curriculum that emphasizes literacy, numeracy, STEM, humanities, arts, physical education, and digital technologies. With a dedicated team of educators, the school fosters academic excellence while also promoting personal growth, resilience, and social responsibility among its students. Mount Pleasant Primary School Website: https://mountpleasantps.wa.edu.au/ Mount Pleasant Primary School is another highly regarded public primary school situated in Applecross. With a strong emphasis on fostering positive relationships and inclusive practices, the school provides a safe and supportive environment for students from Kindergarten to Year 6. Mount Pleasant Primary School's curriculum focuses on literacy, numeracy, STEM, humanities, arts, physical education, and languages. The school promotes student engagement through various extracurricular activities, including music, visual arts, sports, and community involvement, allowing students to explore their interests and talents beyond the classroom. St. Benedict's School Website: https://stbenedicts.wa.edu.au/ St. Benedict's School is a prominent Catholic primary school that caters to students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6. Guided by the teachings of Jesus Christ, the school fosters spiritual, academic, and personal growth in a caring and inclusive environment. St. Benedict's School offers a comprehensive curriculum that integrates faith, learning, and life skills. In addition to core subjects, the school provides opportunities for students to engage in religious education, music, physical education, and extracurricular activities that promote teamwork, creativity, and social responsibility. Applecross Primary School Website: http://www.applecrossps.wa.edu.au/ Applecross Primary School is a highly regarded public primary school that focuses on developing well-rounded students from Kindergarten to Year 6. The school's curriculum emphasizes literacy, numeracy, STEM, humanities, arts, physical education, and languages. Applecross Primary School promotes a positive and inclusive learning environment, fostering the academic, social, emotional, and physical development of its students. The school encourages students to participate in a range of extracurricular activities, including music, sports, clubs, and community initiatives, nurturing their interests and talents outside of the classroom. Investing in Applecross real estate not only grants access to a remarkable living environment but also ensures that your family has access to quality education. These outstanding local schools contribute to the fabric of the community, equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. With a commitment to excellence, these schools make Applecross an ideal destination for families seeking a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.
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.
Apr 14, 2023
The Importance of Quality Service in Real Estate
Why Quality Service Matters When it comes to buying or selling a property, many people tend to focus on the number of listings a real estate agent has. However, quantity does not always equal quality, and it is essential to find an agent that prioritises providing a high level of service rather than simply amassing a large number of properties. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of quality service in real estate and why it should be a top priority when choosing an agent. Personalised Attention An agent who prioritises quality over quantity is more likely to give you personalised attention. They will take the time to get to know you and your specific needs and will work to ensure that you find the perfect property or buyer. This level of attention is crucial, as every client's situation is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach is not always effective. Better Communication A real estate agent who focuses on quality service understands that communication is key. They will keep you informed throughout the buying or selling process, answering any questions you may have and providing updates on the status of your property. This level of communication helps to reduce stress and ensures that you are always aware of what is happening. Attention to Detail When it comes to buying or selling a property, there are many details to consider, from paperwork to negotiations. An agent who focuses on quality service will pay attention to these details, ensuring that nothing is overlooked. This attention to detail helps to ensure a smooth and stress-free transaction. Building Relationships A quality-focused agent will prioritise building relationships with their clients. They understand that buying or selling a property is a significant life event and aim to make the process as enjoyable as possible. This relationship-building approach means that you will be more likely to work with them again in the future or recommend them to others. Choosing the Right Agent When choosing a real estate agent, it is important to prioritise quality service. Look for an agent who has a track record of providing personalised attention, excellent communication, attention to detail, and building relationships with their clients. Don't be swayed by the number of listings an agent has; instead, focus on finding an agent who will work hard to ensure that you have a positive and stress-free experience. Choosing a real estate agent who focuses on quality service is essential for a successful buying or selling experience. Personalised attention, better communication, attention to detail, and relationship-building are just some of the benefits of working with a quality-focused agent. So, take the time to find an agent who prioritises these qualities, and you will be well on your way to a smooth and enjoyable transaction. Find an agent who is right for you here. Want to know more about finding the right agent for you, check out this article.
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.
Mar 17, 2023
How to get your home ready for sale
Putting effort into your home before placing it on the market can give it a winning edge, & ultimately push up the price and buyer interest. Remove the Clutter We all have it. But prospective buyers don’t want to see it. Rooms will look larger if there’s less stuff in them. You might need to rent a storage unit to store all but the most critical pieces of furniture and decor. Don’t go overboard; it’s better to leave some furniture so potential buyers can imagine where their furniture would go. Repairing and Painting walls This can immediately improve the look and feel of your home. It is also a good idea to paint any feature walls a more neutral colour. Ensure you have a Consistent colour scheme throughout your home. Neutral colours are more universally appealing to more buyers. Try to keep the colour scheme flowing throughout your home from the walls, through to your furniture. It makes it easier for potential buyers to imagine themselves moving into your property. Give Your Home a Heavy-Duty Clean It can make a world of difference to the look and feel when buyers come through. Get in and clean everything. Steam clean your carpets Wipe over every surface to remove dust and grime. Deep clean your kitchen and appliances. Bathrooms can really benefit from a deep clean. Use a high-pressure water cleaner to clean the outside Time to Style and Stage Hiring professionals to do this will give you the best results. Hiring professionals is not in everyone's budget. If you are doing it yourself, you need to set the scene. This will depend on your target market. If you are selling a family home in the suburbs or a inner city 2 bedroom unit, you need to style your property to suit. Don't Forget Outside One of the most important factors in presenting your house is its Street Appeal. First impressions are vital. Even before a look inside, they often drive past. Make sure you declutter in the exterior of your house, mow the lawn, clean up the gardens and touch up any exterior paint. There are lots of smaller tasks you can do to help prepare your property to look its best before you put it on the market. Preparing your home for sale: Checklist To successfully sell your home follow these six steps Declutter Deep Clean Stage Keep it tidy with quick cleans Boost your street appeal checklist Stay busy outside of the house Make sure your home has great curb appeal Power wash outside & driveway Cleanup or replace letterbox & numbers Plant fresh greenery and mulch Mow lawn and make sure it is nice & green Clean or paint your front fence Wash front windows Repaint or stain the front porch floor Clean or repaint your front door Remove all clutter Your entryway is vitally important to set the scene as buyers walk through the door. Choose sophisticated neutral colors throughout. Use appropriate furniture so that potential buyers can imagine how each room would look and feel. Do not leave any rooms empty Keep curtains & blinds open to let in as much light as possible. Have new, clean towels on display Keep any kids toys to a minimum and stacked neatly Partially empty out closets and cupboards All beds need to be made and looking inviting Make sure all floors a shining clean Clean away any loose cables Ensure your cupboards and drawers are clean. Completely clean kitchen benches Set the dining table ready for dinner Pull your furniture off the walls Use pairs (of sofas, chairs, lamps) Boost Your Street Appeal Checklist Indoor Checklist Rearrange the furniture to make the rooms appear bigger Decorate to feel cosy in winter or cool in summer. Proper lighting can change the look of your home & make it look more inviting & appealing to buyers. Add table lamps & floor lamps to brighten up dark areas Make sure your home smells nice. There is nothing more off putting than unpleasant odours. Empty all garbage Use candles or fragrance diffusers Fresh flowers are always a nice touch Indoor plants are a great way to add style to a home. The right styling can give your home a winning edge, and ultimately push up the price and buyer interest. The better your property looks and feels, the more money you are likely to get and the faster it will sell. How to stage your house for sale while living in it. Want more help with decluttering or organising, then get in contact with our Organising specialist
Jan 27, 2023
Low Vacancy Rates Make Now the Perfect Time to Invest
Low Vacancy Rates Perth As the economy continues to recover from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, many investors are turning to real estate as a safe and profitable investment opportunity. One of the key factors that makes real estate such a strong investment is the current low vacancy rate in the market. Strong demand for rental properties One of the main reasons why low vacancy rates are a positive indicator for real estate investors is that they indicate a strong demand for rental properties. According to data from REIWA Perth's vacancy rate fell to just 0.6 percent in December, its lowest level since 1980 when the Institute began keeping these records. This high level of occupancy means that landlords can charge higher rent and enjoy higher returns on their investments. REIWA stated that "with a new record low rental vacancy rate, one of the things that WA needed most was investors who were willing to buy a property that they would lease to someone else." Low Vacancy Rates = Lower risk of vacancies Low vacancy rates also mean that landlords are less likely to experience periods of vacancy in their properties. This is important because vacancies can be costly, as landlords are still responsible for paying the mortgage and other expenses even if the property is not generating rental income. With a low vacancy rate, landlords are more likely to have a steady stream of rental income, which can help to mitigate the risk of investing in real estate. Potential for appreciation Another benefit of investing in real estate when the vacancy rate is low is that it can lead to potential appreciation in property values. As the demand for rental properties increases, so does the demand for ownership of those properties. This can lead to an increase in property values, which can provide a significant return on investment for landlords. Strong rental market The rental market is strong and expected to continue to be strong for the foreseeable future adding to the low vacancy rate discussion. According to a report from the Urban Institute, rental demand is expected to increase over the next decade as the millennial generation moves into their prime renting years. This is a trend that is likely to continue even after the pandemic, as more people are opting to rent rather than buy due to changing economic circumstances. To read the full report by REIWA, follow this link. In conclusion, low vacancy rates are a positive indicator for real estate investors as they indicate a strong demand for rental properties, lower risk of vacancies, potential for appreciation in property values, and a strong rental market. With the economy continuing to recover from the pandemic, now is a great time to consider investing in real estate. Always be sure to do your own research and consult with a financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Find out more about the perfect tenant here
Dec 20, 2022
Will underground power increase property prices in North Perth?
In news for prospective buyers of real estate, and existing homeowners in North Perth, Mt Hawthorn, West Perth, and Leederville, new work is coming to install underground power. The City of Vincent announced last Friday, 16th December, that it is working together with the State Government and Western Power to install unground power to more than 10,000 properties by the end of 2028. The work is a part of the Network Renewal Undergrounding Program Pilot. As noted in a previous article on Hilton Property Prices, similar works have been thought to have a positive impact on property prices, almost certainly once the works are complete. Whilst it can be difficult to determine exactly how property prices are affected by infrastructural work there are a number of factors that have a positive impact. According to Western Power Some of these factors include: improved public safety fewer disruptions from storm damage a more aesthetically pleasing street scape reduced tree pruning, and therefore larger trees reduced maintenance and operating costs improved opportunities for emerging technologies On the City of Vincent website Mayor Emma Cole mentioned, “We are excited to bring underground power benefits to Vincent,” “This is the most affordable option for underground power that has been offered to the City and property owners. “Our dream of flourishing tree canopies is being brought to life thanks to this once-in-a-generation opportunity. “Through the ongoing underground power rollout throughout Vincent, streetlights will be replaced with bright energy-efficient LED lights so that our community can safely walk and exercise in their neighbourhoods in the evenings.” Four stages of underground power roll out. Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Western Power in May 2022 a commitment was made to commence work in areas where ageing power lines presented a greater risk. Phase 1 is targeting North Perth/Mount Lawley, North Perth/Mount Hawthorn and Perth/Highgate. A rolling fund has been established in the 2022-23 budget that contains a 7.3% rate rise to assist with current and future projects In July 2022 Western Power committed to five more underground power projects in Perth, Highgate, Mount Hawthorn, North Perth, Leederville and West Perth as part of the future NRUP. Primary equipment sites have been selected for the installation of electrical infrastructure including mounted transformers and other equipment for distributing electricity. Artwork and vegetation screening are being considered as options to reduce the visual impact of the primary equipment sites. Read more on the City of Vincent website.
Dec 9, 2022
Instant Turn-offs for buyers
Instant Turn-Offs for Buyers There are important factors that can instantly turn off potential buyers for your home. If you want to sell for maximum dollars - Take notes! In this blog we are going to step you through some of the small but common things that may turn buyers off buying your house. When selling your home things like size, location, layout, and renovations may look great on paper and have all the attributes that a buyer is looking for. But buyers can be easily swayed one way or the other at your open house. So, what should you be looking out for? There can be less-obvious factors that can turn buyers off. The number ONE turn-off is "CLUTTER". Everybody has it, but no buyer wants to see it. Cleanliness & Tidiness are arguably the most important tasks when having an open home. It is important not to take shortcuts with cleaning - Buyers see everything! Clutter will be your worst enemy - Get rid of it all. Pack stuff away in storage if you need to. Want to speak to someone about how to best declutter for sale then get in touch with one of our preferred suppliers today here. Now let's talk - About paint Colors "Out There" overly bright (or dark) paint tones can be an instant turn-off. Buyers don't want to see a rainbow of colors. To appeal to the most number of buyers you should ensure all walls are painted in relatively neutral colors. This will appeal to a broader market and also give your home a fresh, polished appearance. By repainting a few surfaces to appeal to a broader market - you can add thousands to your final sale price. Overpricing your home If you have overpriced your home, you will not only get negative feedback from buyers. But also possibly no showings and no offers and then questions about why it has been on the market for too long. Buyers will quickly realize that there are other homes in the same price range that offer more value. Nearly all studies show price is the single largest determining factor for the length of time on the market. An overpriced home is one of the largest hurdles to overcome and can make even the best marketing completely ineffective. Deceptive Photos can be a huge turn off The first impressions most buyers get of your home are online photos - So of course, you want your home to look its best. Professional photographers use clever camera angles, flawless staging, and even Photoshop to make sure your home looks its best. Just like a heavily Photoshopped dating profile, deceptive images can be a turn-off for buyers if they come to your open home and what they saw online doesn't match the reality. For example, if your photoshopped photos show a gleaming kitchen full of light, but the reality is a dark kitchen with little natural light, buyers will be instantly turned off and even worse you will have lost all credibility and buyer trust. Deferred maintenance Most buyers really want a home that's been well-maintained. They don't want to wonder what needs to be fixed next or how much it will cost. Things like peeling paint, broken door hinges, damaged light fittings, damp areas, and Dated décor are all factors that can turn buyers off. Evidence of water damage or moisture damage, Old carpets, Outdated fixtures, Ageing Electrical Systems, and poor Poor kerb appeal will all cause buyers to think twice. One sure-fire thing that makes buyers run a mile is dirty run-down bathrooms and kitchens. Bad Smells A home that smells badly is a guaranteed instant turnoff. Even an investor looking for a bargain would get an in-depth inspection to find out the source of the smells. Smells can come from a number of sources. But they will nearly always turn off buyers and cost you thousands in discounted offers. This is just a summary - The reality is there’s a long list of factors that can turn off potential buyers and impact your final sale price. Turn off's vary from buyer to buyer - But it is important to address as many of the potential issues as you possibly can. The better your home presents, the better your final sale price will be. Read more here.