We all know the best time to buy property was 20 years ago, but what if we wait another 20?

After growing up in the Northern Territory I've since spent many years teaching clients how to successfully invest in property around Australia and New Zealand. 

Darwin had a median house price in 1986 of just $87,500, 10 years later it had doubled to $164,250. In 2006 it had increased to $332,000 and has now come back to around $613,000. As with most of Australia, it shows a consistent doubling every 10 years. If these trends continue, that 600k property could be worth $1,226,000 in 10 years, and $2,452,000 in 20 years! How would an extra 2.5 mil change your retirement plans?

However, we would all agree that the property market in the Northern Territory would be less than ideal as an investment option at the moment. But that doesn't mean we shouldn't invest. Having growth in the short term allows us to grow our portfolio, recycle equity, pay down debt or perhaps retire sooner.

In the past we could buy almost any property and do quite well out of it, and there are still opportunities to have our money working harder than we do towards securing our financial futures, we just need to be a bit wiser in where we buy, and what we buy.

By doing some research and asking the right questions before we buy we can ensure that the fundamentals behind our purchase are sound giving us the best chance for short and long term growth, as well as a hassle free investment property.

What is the population growth of the area?
What are the economic factors behind the growth?
Is it long term or a short term factor?
What other developments are being built or could be built in the area?
What infrastructure changes are planned?
Will they have a positive or negative effect on rents and property values?
What are the current demographics?
What style of property are there too many/not enough of?
How many are owner occupiers?
How many of them have mortgages?

There are many more questions we should ask before making this decision. They will affect your short and long term growth as well as the ease with which you will secure tenants over the term of your investment. Property investing can be an easy and stress free way to secure your future, or a nightmare that sends you backwards. I'd be happy to guide you through and assist you making the best choice.

I'll be in Darwin in the coming weeks. Give me a call if you'd like to discuss what may be the best option for you, and if you like we can set a time to sit down and go through your questions in more detail. I am available via email or phone or you can also use the quick contact form located on this page to ask a question about my services. I'll be happy to answer your questions or offer any help.