inspect-wollongong

Wollongong : Now Ready For New Opportunities

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:54:04 GMT

First-home buyers may be declining but Wollongong still has plenty to offer, according to the experts.

NSW Minister for Planning Rob Stokes and Domain Group chief economist Dr Andrew Wilson were both in the region on Tuesday at different events to discuss how the region’s boom showed no signs of slowing down.

Dr Wilson said around 1100 people were moving into the “fertile destination” every week (mostly pushed out of the big city), compared to 1500 in Melbourne.

While the Minister said Wollongong’s population is tipped to reach half a million in the next two decades.

“It is growing faster than Sydney at the moment [and will continue] and it’s because of factors like affordability, lifestyle, strong local economy and that sense Wollongong is becoming part of Greater Sydney,” Dr Wilson said.

“Sydney is chronically under supplied and it’s never going to be fixed.”

Going against the grain of most other Australian markets, capital growth continues to rise with house prices already up 8.2 per cent so far this year in Wollongong, ahead of Sydney and Melbourne at 5 per cent.

Shellharbour is also bucking the trend with a rise of 12.2 per cent so far.

Dr Wilson said prices will continue upward but at a much slower pace than recent years, with around a 6 per cent growth predicted for Wollongong in the next year.

A strong demand for units has considerably pushed up their prices which have seen a 70.6 per cent increase over the past five years in Wollongong, compared to a 52.7 per cent rise for houses.

Fairy Meadow has been the area’s top performer with the median house price climbing to $700,000, the steepest rise for an Illawarra suburb in the past year at 15.1 per cent.

“[It] was always a holiday destination in the old days … rather than an older holiday shack type environment it’s becoming a serious residential community,” Dr Wilson said.

As families seek out greener and cheaper pastures around Wollongong, Dr Wilson predicted more luxury and semi-luxury homes to spring up in the northern suburbs.

He believes confidence has been restored in the Illawarra after the “doom and gloom” brought on by the decline of manufacturing, and it’s reflected in the amount of new developments, especially high rises.

Minister Stokes agreed the region had a great future and was optimistic about the growing opportunities for tourism, trade, logistics, freight, education and health.

“This is a region ripe with opportunity and we’re starting to see the first fruits of that over the last few years and that’s going to accelerate in the future,” Mr Stokes said.

Dr Wilson said the Illawarra “ticked all the boxes” to remain the top performing regional city with new constructions strong and “no oversupply in sight”.

Credit: NSW Planning Minister Rob Stokes and Domain Group economist Andrew Wilson in Wollongong

Wollongong House Prices Not Expected to Be Affected by Federal Budget Measures

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:53:16 GMT

Budget measures aimed at curbing explosive house prices are unlikely to have an impact in NSW regional areas experts say, instead calling them a ‘drop in the ocean’ and a missed opportunity to address housing affordability.

There was hope the budget would provide relief to regions like Wollongong, in the Illawarra, where booming property prices are outpacing Sydney according to market analysts.

NAB’s most recent Housing Market Report showed house prices in the region rose 12.9 per cent last year, almost double the regional NSW average.

The coastal city was dubbed the third most expensive city to buy a home in Australia after Sydney and Melbourne in a 2016 Domain Group property study.

Renters have welcomed the Government’s attempt to help them buy a new home using voluntary contributions from their superannuation to save for a deposit.

But experts say the changes do not go far enough.

University of Wollongong Professor of Economics Alex Frino said giving tax breaks to first home buyers through the super system would not solve the issue of supply.

“That will just simply aggravate the problem, so there’s more money chasing existing properties,” Professor Frino said.

He doubts luring older people into downsizing by allowing them to bank an extra $300,000 from the sale of their home into super will work either.

“So some modest measures, one of them will simply increase and aggravate the problem, the other may work at the fringes so not a great outcome in terms of housing affordability,” he said.

Real Estate Institute Illawarra Chapter chairman Trevor Molenaar believed the Government should have done more.

“I think it was a drop in the ocean of what we feel could have been done,” Mr Molenaar said.

“We were calling for 50 per cent exemptions on stamp duty for first home buyers, I feel that would have gone a long way to starting the process for making it affordable for the Illawarra residents,” he said.

“I’ve spoken to a lot of buyers already and they are seeing no real change in their side of things so the affordability factor, or the lack of affordability, is still there.”

But Mr Molenaar said leaving negative gearing relatively untouched was a good move given the Illawarra market is generally made up of ‘Mum and Dad investors, not multi-millionaires’.

The new First Home Super Savers Scheme will allow prospective home owners to access a concessional 15 per cent tax rate for up to $30,000 from their super.

But resident Graeme Frazer said this budget measure was too little too late.

He said the maximum amount a first-time buyer could funnel from their super would not be enough for them to gather a deposit for a home in the Wollongong region.

“[They are] trying to create an illusion really, it’s like shutting the gate after the horse has bolted, waste of time, and why is the limit so low?”, Mr Frazer said.

“How much is a house deposit these days?”

But northern suburbs tradesman and renter Damien Blanch believed it would now take he and his partner less time to get a foot in the expensive market.

“The new budget, it has given us a bit more hope about saving a deposit,” Mr Blanch said.

“It is tight to get in.

Credit: Federal budget 2017: Housing affordability measures could ‘aggravate’ explosive prices, supply issue in regional NSW

Wollongong Building and Pest Inspections

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:48:27 GMT

A quality building inspection by a licensed BPI Building Inspector may reveal problems that are not visibly apparent to the casual observer or unlicensed operator.

An inspection performed by a skilled professional is certainly a good way for any property buyer can protect themselves from having to deal with serious structural problems after the papers are signed and the deal is done.

When a property is professionally inspected, a number of things are examined. The building inspector checks for water damage to the property and evaluates water drainage.

The inspector looks for deteriorated plumbing and incompatible water and sewerage pipes. Structural wear and tear is noted on the inspector’s checklist along with any other damage and defects.

The most common defects found during a building inspection are:

1. Roof Problems

In the Australian climate, even the most well-built roof will begin to deteriorate sooner or later. A roof that was not adequately framed during construction may sag under its own load. A roof that has not been regularly inspected and maintained may require significant repair in the not-so-distant future.

2. Fire Separation Walls

At a Building Inspection done by our owner Greg Flood, it was discovered a fire separation dividing wall between two units was incomplete and breaches the building codes. The fire separation wall defectbricks or fire rated materials are required to continue all the way to the underside of the roofing materials with no gaps or open penetrations.

These regulations are designed to stop the spread of fire between units, townhouses and flats and to give a safe period of time for occupants to escape safely.

3. Plumbing Defects

The building inspector will pay close attention to the condition of plumbing pipes and fixtures. The inspector will evaluate the waste lines as well. No buyer wants to find themselves in a house with leaky pipes, mould and other problems that may arise with poor plumbing.

4. Incomplete Construction

No, this doesn’t mean the builder forgot to add a roof! Incomplete construction may be minor and still lead to a world of woe. If a pergola is not connected to a storm water drain by way of an eave, downspout or gutter system, the building is considered incomplete and repairs ought to be made prior to sale.

5. Inadequate Ventilation

Improper ventilation can cause a range of problems if not corrected. Under-house ventilation is as crucial as the ventilation and air flow within the structure. A poorly ventilated house is susceptible to wood rot and toxic mould.

6. Lack of Structural Integrity

Poor building practices and inadequate maintenance can lead to a range of serious problems within the actual structure of a building. A slow leak in the plumbing system can cause cumulative damage in the way of rotted joists and sub flooring. A leaking roof can cause major damage to interior and exterior walls as well as to the rafters that hold the roof up.

7. Damaged or Missing Fittings and Fixtures

Many disputes that occur during a real estate sale involve the “chattels”or fixtures that are considered a permanent part of the property.

These fixtures and fittings may include installed carpeting, appliances, awnings, light fittings and certain window treatments. A final inspection immediately prior to closing can ensure that all permanent fixtures that are supposed to be included with the property are indeed there when the new owner takes possession.

8. Insect Infestation

While the inspector is evaluating a property, he or she will look for rodent droppings, wasp nests and other signs that insects have taken up residence on site.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling residential property, familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations regarding pre-sale property inspections. At BPI Building and Pest Inspections, we specialise in pre sale inspections and our qualified inspectors leave no stone unturned during their inspections.

ilding & Pest Inspections Wollongong Pty Ltd (BPI) is a local business that provides home or building and pest inspections.

We are part of one of the largest building and pest inspection companies in Australia, Building & Pest Inspections Pty Ltd (BPI) has been operational for over eighteen years and served a vast number of clients in Australia.

All our building and pest inspectors are fully protected by professional indemnity insurance.

Our building pest inspection services are very affordable. Our pest control services meet the Australian standard AS4349.1 The reports we provide are detailed and simple to understand. If you wish to book for a service with us, you can call us at 1800 609 065 and 1800 505 640 and talk to our friendly staff.

For no extra cost to you, a BPI thermal scan will give you that extra peace of mind knowing that we have given the property a thorough inspection.

Wollongong Real Estate Agents

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:38:30 GMT

Tired of looking all over the web for Wollongong real estate agents? We thought we collect as many as we could and put them in an easy to access list below.

We are an independent building and pest inspection company and have no affiliation with any real estate agent. The following agencies are listed in alphabetical order.

All Residential Real Estate

306 Crown Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4228 2555

Fax: 02 4228 9442

Website: allresidentialrealestate.com.au

A.M. Rutty Estate Agents

Corner of Cliff Road and Bourke Street

North Wollongong 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 6311

Website: www.amrutty.com.au

Belle Property Wollongong

Shop 103

60-62 Harbour Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4228 0888

Fax: 02 4228 0988

Website: www.belleproperty.com/wollongong

Bevans Wollongong

94 Market Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4226 6222

Website: www.bevans.com.au/office/wollongong

Century 21 Ultimate

4/74 Kembla Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4227 4444

Fax: 02 4227 4111

Website: www.century21.com.au/ultimate

Chris Darby Strataaph

Level 1

55 Kembla Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4228 0455

Fax: 02 4228 4950

Website: www.chrisdarbystrata.com.au

City Beach Properties

Level 1

40/12 Bank Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4228 8400

Fax: 02 4228 8499

Website: www.citybeachproperties.com

Colliers International Wollongong

101 Keira Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4222 7222

Website: www.colliers.com.au/offices/wollongong

Cooper & Cooper Property Management

121 Keira Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 8233

Fax: 02 4229 8277

Website: www.cooperpropertymanagement.com.au

David Grubb Real Estate

482 Princes Highway

Fairy Meadow NSW 2519 (show map)

Phone: 02 4285 0550

Fax: 02 4285 0556

Website: www.davidgrubb.com.au

Elders Real Estate

353 Crown Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4228 7878

Fax: 02 4228 7676

Website: wollongong.eldersrealestate.com.au

First National Real Estate

Shop 1

55 Kembla Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4226 6055

Fax: 02 4226 6029

Website: www.fnwollongong.com.au

Fletchers Wollongong Real Estate Agents

Shop 2

143-149 Corrimal Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4226 1074

Fax: 02 4226 3327

Website: fletchers.net.au/wollongong

Huxley & Partners Real Estate

112 A Railway Street

Corrimal NSW 2518 (show map)

Phone: 02 4286 5555

Fax: 02 4285 1837

Website: www.huxleyrealestate.com.au

Illawarra Estate Agents

4/179-181 Keira Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 8255

Fax: 02 4225 8222

Website: www.ieagroup.com.au

Leigh Stewart Property

Level 2, Suite 6

87-89 Market Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4225 1800

Website: www.leighstewartproperty.com.au

LJ Hooker

68 Market Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Postal Address:

P.O. Box 797

Wollongong East NSW 2520

Phone: 02 4229 1055

Website: wollongong.ljhooker.com.au

McGrath Estate Agents

2/63 Burelli Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4224 6688

Fax: 02 4224 6699

Website: www.mcgrath.com.au/office/68-wollongong

McPhail Real Estate

Shop 4/22 Gladstone Avenue

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 9877

Fax: 02 4226 2418

Website: www.mcphailrealestate.com

MMJ Real Estate

6-8 Regent Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 5555

Fax: 02 4226 2040

Website: www.mmj.com.au/wollongong

One Agency Zeidler Waller

107 A Keira Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4226 5100

Website: oneagency.com.au

ParkTrent Properties Group

Shop 2

2-4 Kenny Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 1655

Corporate Office:

39-41 Montague Street

North Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 1800 652 224

Website: parktrent.com.au/contact-us/wollongong

Peter Fitzgerald Real Estate

The Landmark

Shop 1

313-323 Crown Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4226 3733

Website: www.pfrealestate.com.au

Peter Taranto Real Estate

140 Keira Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4228 1622

Fax: 02 4229 4733

Website: www.taranto.com.au

Professionals Wollongong

64 Flinders Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4226 6772

Fax: 02 4210 8669

Website: professionalswollongong.com.au

Raine & Horne Wollongong

226 Corrimal Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 9600

Website: www.raineandhorne.com.au/wollongong

Ray White North Beach Wollongong

Novotel Shop 3

2-14 Cliff Road

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: (02) 4226 9000

Website: www.raywhitenorthbeachwollongong.com.au/

Ray White Real Estate Wollongong

69 Kembla Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4229 8600

Fax: 02 4225 9359

Website: raywhitewollongong.com.au

Scholtens Property

Suite 5

61 Market Street

Wollongong NSW 2500 (show map)

Phone: 02 4225 7010

Fax: 02 4229 1995

Website: www.scholtensproperty.com

Wollongong: A Relocation Haven for Commercial Companies

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:29:30 GMT

Manufacturing and industrial business in the Illawarra is somewhat being revived and taking a new shape with Sydney businesses keen to move in.

A large property at 32 – 34 Doyle Avenue in Unanderra has just been snapped up by a civil engineering firm who, like many others, decided to relocate from Sydney to greener and cheaper pastures.

MMJ Wollongong’s director of commercial sales Tim Jones said a number of different agents had tried to sell the vacant property over the past three years without success, until now.

“We are delighted to have been able to facilitate such a strong sale on what has been a problematic property for the vendor for some time. The fact that we’ve sold it to a relocating, Sydney-based company is also extremely satisfying,” he said.

“The property boasts 19,050m2 of … light industrial land and a substantial 4,500m2 shed and [sold for] $4,625,000.”

The problem with industrial sites, he said, is they need to find a perfect match with a buyer as each unique property won’t meet every businesses needs.

It’s the first purchase of commercial property for the owner of Civil Foundations Group, Tony Derham. His business has was founded in 1991 and only ever used rented various yards and sheds around Sydney.

“Due to the increasing demand [for] unit development we found a requirement to relocate our property and one of our colleagues … suggested Unanderra,” Mr Derham said.

“What appealed to us is we need a lot of repairs and maintenance [and] there’s a limited supply of spare parts and specialized service and it’s scattered around Sydney, where in Unanderra everything is there.”

Mr Derham said in his industry a lot of businesses are opting out of Sydney and going as far as Raymond Terrace, Gosford and Western Sydney, but said traffic to Wollongong was far better.

The company’s expansion also means the creation of new jobs, in which the group is currently advertising for.

“People say ‘it’s too far away to get there’ but not really …[from Sutherland] we haven’t got one traffic light to get to the front door of our office. So if I go and see one of my clients at Erskine Park, I joke I have to take an overnight bag,” Mr Derham said.

Mr Jones said MMJ had fielded a lot of inquiry from “out of area companies” looking to relocate to the Illawarra in the past 12 months.

“The attraction for Sydney-based companies in particular, relates not only to cheaper asking prices and rents, but also to our proximity to world class port and university facilities,” he said.

Mr Derham added the facilities are usually bigger and more efficient than those found in Sydney and come without residential restrictions meaning more productivity.

“It’s certainly a lot more economical in purchasing property … and you don’t get the same facilities [as you would in Sydney]. The shed we’ve bought has got massive overhead cranes which is what we need, very rarely we can find sheds in Western Sydney where you have that setup,” Mr Derham said.

“We’re just fortunate to find a shed that’s perfect for us”.

Credit: Sydney civil engineering company relocates to Wollongong, a new trend

Wollongong Real Estate Snapshot 2016

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:28:03 GMT

Buying a home to live in or as an investment in Wollongong is a major decision requiring careful analysis of your needs, financial situation and long-term goals.

For buyers looking for affordable homes in Wollongong, there are a number of housing options such as beach-front properties to large suburban family homes and a relaxed lifestyle. Young families, singles and adults find Wollongong a great place to call home.

Wollongong Demographics

he city is home to just under 300,000 people, the third largest in NSW, and is particularly attractive to young couples and singles. An analysis of the Wollongong population by Experian Australia showed that approximately 30 percent of the residents are independents under 35 years old. Almost 18 percent are mature and established independents between 35 and 44 years old. Elderly singles account for about 12 percent of the population.

Amenities of Wollongong

Situated on the South Coast about 85 kilometres south of Sydney in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Wollongong offers affordable housing, seaside living, a temperate climate and beautiful views.

The city is home to Wollongong University, the Wollongong Conservatorium of Music and several specialty high schools.

The Crown Street Mall is a popular shopping hub and the City Centre offers shopping, entertainment and special events, with cafés, street fairs and weekly markets.

Wollongong Property Values

Property values in Wollongong are more affordable than major urban areas like Sydney. In December 2015, the median sales price for a house in Wollongong was $667,000, based on 90 sales between December 1, 2014, and December 21, 2015.

The median sales price was $655,000 for a three-bedroom home and $662,500 for a four-bedroom home. For comparison, the median sale price for NSW as a whole was $593,000 for the same period.

For those interested in renting instead of buying, the median rent for townhouses and flats was $370 per week in Wollongong. In comparison, median rents for NSW were $465.

More than half of Wollongong residents rent their place of residence. Fewer than 23 percent of the residents own their homes. The vacancy rate is low throughout the city making Wollongong a great place for investors to look for rental properties.

Each of the several neighbourhoods within Wollongong has its own characteristics, from the lively city centre to quiet, family-oriented communities.

Several, like Fairy Meadows, are beach-front suburbs. Housing options vary within each neighbourhood.

For example, approximately 83 percent of the housing in Figtree is detached and 5.6 percent is comprised of block flats. In Keiraville, more than 21 percent of housing is block flats and 66.8 percent is detached. Housing costs vary between suburbs as well.

Forecast for Wollongong Real Estate

The high demand for homes in Wollongong has spurred development. Plans are underway to convert commercial properties to flats and apartments, remove older buildings to make way for new, and renovate older properties to accommodate the expected influx of more than 2,500 new people over the next few years.

Overall, experts forecast that housing in NSW overall will become more affordable in 2016 giving first-time homebuyers more opportunity to purchase a home.

Those planning to retire may find a better opportunity to sell or trade their homes. Higher mortgage rates and more restrictions on lending may affect investors.

Wollongong: One of the Most Expensive Cities in Australia

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:24:47 GMT

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The third most expensive city in Australia after Sydney and Melbourne isn’t where you might expect – it’s Wollongong, population 200,000.

House prices in the Gong jumped by $100,000 in the year to December 2016, with a median house price of $700,000, Domain Group’s Regional House Price Report shows.

Melbourne’s median house price is $795,447 and Sydney’s $1,123,991.

Experts say much of Wollongong’s growth is a result of the high cost of property in Sydney, with both investors and home hunters turning south in search of a bargain.

House prices in Wollongong were up 16.7 per cent over the year and a staggering 7.7 per cent over the December quarter. Sydney prices grew 10.7 per cent over the year and 4.7 per cent over the quarter.

It is now clearly one of the state’s most popular coastal destinations, Domain Group chief economist Andrew Wilson said.

“It’s now being considered a part of Greater Sydney,” Dr Wilson said.

“It’s the strongest result of all the major regional markets … likely because of its proximity to Sydney and relative affordability.”

Located 70 kilometres from Sydney, apartments in the area have also experienced a price jump – up 4.1 per cent to $501,000.

Victor Shalala, from MMJ Real Estate Wollongong said “The entry level for a house in the 2500 postcode [which covers the inner suburbs of Wollongong] is $650,000 to $750,000 for something decent.”

He has just put a three-bedroom apartment at 5/22 Market Street, Wollongong on the market for $840,000 to $870,000.

He said the interest in the unit was a 50-50 split between investors and home buyers and “investors are driving up the prices”, he said.

Jason Hines from Peter Fitzgerald Real Estate said the majority of his buyers were younger families, many of whom were escaping high Sydney prices.

“Seventy per cent of our buyer market we are dealing with would be Sydney buyers,” Mr Hines said.

“Mostly from western Sydney selling for great prices and making a sea change at a still very affordable price,” he said.

He said Wollongong offered a “similar travel time” for those commuting from Sydney’s western suburbs, but with a beach.

A successful sale he made last year was 8 Cabbage Tree Lane in Fairy Meadow – a suburb in the northern part of Wollongong. The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home sold for $829,000 in December.

Propertybuyer buyer’s agent Rich Harvey has had his eye on the surging area for the past few months, for both its proximity to Sydney and its natural environment – both drawcards for home buyers.

“It has a highly attractive price and has benefited from the ripple effect from Sydney,” Mr Harvey said.

Another big drawcard for investors is the ability to add a granny flat to an existing dwelling and achieve two rental incomes from one property, Mr Harvey said.

This strategy has proven popular with western Sydney investors looking to increase their cash flow, but with price rises looking to the larger blocks in Wollongong has become more viable for this strategy.

Although Wollongong is one of Australia’s most expensive cities, some towns are pricier. With a population under 100,000, the coastal town of Byron Bay has a median price of $860,000.

What the locals are saying about ‘the Gong’

Wollongong residents are surprised by the growth, but knew it was only a matter of time before the northern neighbours took a look over the fence.

Most agreed the best thing about Wollongong is its proximity to Sydney – not too close, not too far – and the beaches and coffee aren’t bad, either.

TAFE administration officer, Lina Morosini, 49, grew up in Warilla. She left the Gong at 16, to work in Sydney. She said it was nowhere near as tough growing up in Wollongong as it was when she was young.

“There was racism against Europeans who moved here for the steelworks but racism is in the past. People are welcoming. Steel isn’t playing as big a role. The economy is changing,” she said.

“People are asking big prices, now. Mum’s unit in Lake Illawarra was valued at $200,000 in 2014. Two units in the same block just sold for $380,000 – I was stunned.”

And Alison Covington who commutes from Wollongong to the Mascot office of her charity organisation, Good360 Australia, was born and bred in Wollongong.

“I don’t think the prices are that ridiculous … it might be a little high compared to the national average but … you can drive to the northern suburbs of the Gong to Sydney as quick as you can to Western Sydney and technology means you can work anywhere.”

Wollongong Public School learning support officer Toni-lee Baker moved from Sydney’s west to Wollongong four years ago. She described the lifestyle change as “heavenly”.

“Wollongong has an amazing, welcoming feeling. Newcomers are embraced and valued,” she said.

It was also a good financial decision. The home she and her husband, Mark, bought in Windang in 2012 for $400,000 was recently valued at more than $600,000.

“Our western Sydney suburb was becoming too violent. I wanted a better life for my kids. Now I live between the beach and Lake Illawarra. I couldn’t afford that in Sydney.”

Credits: Wollongong revealed as Australia’s third most expensive city with price growth outpacing Sydney

Wollongong’s Top 10 Selling Suburbs

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:21:34 GMT

Wollongong has been a sellers market for five years now with property prices increasing between 37 and 67 per cent, according to analysis by the Domain Group.

Even though the market is starting to “settle down”, some suburbs have still seen substantial increases in a report released by economist Dr Andrew Wilson.

Fairy Meadow has stormed ahead as the local government area’s top performing suburb with the median house price up 12 per cent in the six months to March 2016 at $700,000.

That’s a total increase of of 49.7 per cent over the past five years.

Unit prices jumped 40.6 per cent in the six months to March at a median of $522,500, an increase of 75.9 per cent over the previous five years.

Corrimal house medians came in second, rising by 11.1 per cent in six months to $677,500, a total increase of 45.7 per cent over five years.

The overall growth for Thirroul in the 12 months to March was low at 1.3 per cent, however it bounced back in the latter six month period to a 9.8 per cent increase.

Dapto was another top performer with the most number houses sold in the LGA for the 12 months to March. The median up 12.9 per cent for that year at $480,000.

Next door, Kanahooka houses were fairing well with a rise of 12.7 per cent at the year to March with the median at $540,750.

Other areas with house sales inside the top 10 included Figtree, Helensburgh, Horsley, Berkeley then Woonona – Lake Heights and Balgownie dropping out of high performers list.

Meantime Wollongong, Fairy Meadow, Woonona, Corrimal and North Wollongong were the top selling suburbs for units in the six months to March.

Your Guide to Buying at Auction in NSW

Tue, 02 May 2023 05:20:08 GMT

Selling by auction has become a popular way to sell residential property in New South Wales. On average, 38% of homes went to auction and more than 95% of homes were sold via auction in some areas.

Selling property at auction is advantageous when the housing market is tight and buying are competitive. Well-informed buyers can quickly close a deal on a property at auction, avoiding a lengthy negotiation process common to private sales.

There are different procedures of sale by auction in each state or territory. Buyers who plan to purchase at auction in a state other than NSW should refer to the rules of that state.

Important Facts About Auctions

Auctions allow multiple buyers to bid publicly on a property for sale. In NSW, auctions are often held by estate agents who have authorisation to assume the role of an auctioneer.

There are several differences in rules and procedures between buying at auction and buying a house on the market. Buyers must be aware of their obligations and responsibilities when purchasing a property by auction.

Most importantly, the highest bidder is obligated to follow through with the purchase after the hammer falls.

There is no cooling-off period and no means to negotiate terms of a contract. If you are the highest bidder, you must pay a deposit and exchange contracts immediately. Failure to do so may result in penalties, loss of deposit or payment of damages to the vendor.

Bidder Registration

Bidders must register with the selling agent. Registration gives you the right to bid. It does not mean that you must bid.

To register, proof of identity that shows both your name and address must be presented. Examples include a driver’s license, council rates notice or vehicle registration.

If you do not have these types of document, two alternate sources may be used. One must show your name, and the other must show your address.

Acceptable combinations include passport, ATM card, credit card or birth certificate along with a utilities bill, rental agreement or any official document that shows your address.

If bidders pre-register, this documentation must be presented on the day of the auction.

After registering, bidders will be given a unique number. The number and the registration details provided by the bidder will be recorded in a Bidder’s Record. This record is kept by the selling agent for three years after the auction.

The contents of the record cannot be disclosed to the seller, only to authorised representatives of NSW Fair Trading, a consumer rights arm of the Department of Finance, Services and Innovation.

Preparing for the Auction

Because there is no cooling-off period, bidders are urged to inform themselves about the property before auction day.

Research the Area

Be familiar with the value of property in the area. Examine recent sales data to know how much houses are selling for in that suburb. Attend other auctions to see how bidding is done and what the final sales prices are.

Visit the House Several Times

Look at the exterior, the garden and overall general condition. Have a building and pest inspection done by a certified inspector to identify defects or problems with the property.

If the property has a swimming pool, include a pool inspection. An inspection will not only identify problems. It will provide recommendations and cost estimates for repair.

For community properties or properties in a strata scheme, review strata reports.

Examine the Contract

If you have any questions or feel that the contract is unfair, have your solicitor review it. You can negotiate changes to the contract with the seller’s agent before the auction.

This amended contract should be presented to the auctioneer at the time of the auction. The bidder must inform the auctioneer that bidding is according to the terms of the amended contract.

Obtain Finance in Advance

Know how much you can afford and get funding in place before the auction. The winning bidder must pay a deposit, usually 10%, after the auction.

Ensure that enough money is on hand to pay the deposit. Even if financing is not in place, the winning bidder is expected to sign the contract and complete the sale.

On Auction Day

A property often is open for inspection on the day of the auction before the event begins.

Reinspect the property, review the contract and make sure that you understand the rules of the auction.

The auctioneer or agent must provide each bidder with a unique number, a copy of the Bidder’s Guide and a list of conditions governing the auction.

An owner may set a reserve price which is the minimum amount the owner will accept for a sale.

The reserve price is not disclosed to bidders. The auctioneer may bid once for the seller. Called a vendor bid, the agent must announce when a vendor bid is being made. Dummy bids are not allowed.

If the reserve price is not reached, the agent can ask if the owner would sell at a lower price.

If the seller chooses not to accept a lower price, the property is withdrawn from the auction – passed in.

Bidders have no obligation to buy if the reserve price is not reached. However, the highest bidder may be invited to negotiate a sale with the seller.

If a property is passed in and contracts are exchanged on the same day as the auction, a cooling-off period is not allowed.

If the reserve price is reached, bidding continues until the fall of the hammer.

No bids are accepted after the hammer. The highest bidder becomes the buyer. Auctioneers can refuse bids that are not in the seller’s best interest.

After contracts are exchanged, your conveyancer will conduct searches of the property.

At settlement, the remainder of the purchase price will be paid to the seller.

Pre-Auction Sales

Pre-auction offers are allowed in New South Wales. A buyer may submit an offer to the seller’s agent before the date of the auction. The selling process is the same as that of a private sale.

How to know if a pool inspector in Wollongong is qualified

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 05:55:44 GMT

If you’re in the market for a new pool, it’s important to make sure that your barrier inspector is qualified. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing an inspector.

POOL BARRIER INSPECTORS SHOULD BE LICENSED AND INSURED

When it comes to your family’s safety, you should never take chances. That’s why pool barrier inspectors should be licensed and insured. This will ensure that they have the proper qualifications and training to inspect your pool barriers for potential hazards.

By choosing an inspector in Wollongong who is licensed and insured, you can rest assured that your family will be safe around the pool.

THEY SHOULD ALSO BE FAMILIAR WITH THE LATEST SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR POOL BARRIERS IN WOLLONGONG

In order to keep your family safe, it’s important that you familiarise yourself with the latest pool barrier inspection requirements. Pool barrier inspectors should be well-versed in the

most recent safety protocols to ensure that any potential hazards are identified and corrected. By understanding what’s required, you can have peace of mind knowing that your loved ones are protected while enjoying a refreshing swim.

INSPECTORS SHOULD DO A THOROUGH INSPECTION OF YOUR POOL BARRIER IN WOLLONGONG, LOOKING FOR ANY POTENTIAL HAZARDS

If you’re a homeowner with a swimming pool, it’s important to make sure that your pool barrier is in good condition and up to code. Pool barrier inspections can help you do this, but they should do a thorough inspection of your barrier to make sure that it’s secure and meets all safety requirements.

If you’re not sure whether your barrier is up to code, contact your local pool inspector in Wollongong for advice.

THEY SHOULD ALSO PROVIDE YOU WITH A WRITTEN REPORT DETAILING THEIR FINDINGS

When you hire a pool barrier inspector in Wollongong, they should provide you with a written report detailing their findings and what needs to be done to correct any deficiencies. This report can help protect you from liability in the event of an accident. Make sure to carefully review the report and follow the inspector’s recommendations.

List of questions to ask your Wollongong pool inspector

If you’re like most homeowners in Wollongong, you want to be sure your pool is in good shape before the summer heat settles in. That’s why it’s important to hire a qualified Wollongong pool inspector to do a complete inspection. But what questions should you ask your inspector? Here are ten of the most important questions to ask:

What experience do you have inspecting pools?
What type of inspections do you offer?
Do you have insurance and are you licensed?
What are your fees?
How long will the inspection take?
Will I receive a written report afterwards?
Can I be present during the inspection?
Can you provide me with a list of references from past clients who have used your services?
What kind of training and experience do you have in swimming pool inspections?
What are the potential dangers of not addressing any problems that you may find during your inspection?

Let’s talk.

It’s important to remember that a pool barrier is not only required by law, but it can also save lives. That’s why it’s crucial to have a professional inspect your barrier regularly to ensure that it meets all safety requirements.

Our team of experts can come out and inspect your barrier for you, and we will be happy to help you fix any potential problems before they become dangerous. So don’t wait – call us today to get your pool inspected in Wollongong.

What is the NSW legislation for Pool Inspections?

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 06:00:24 GMT

Homeowners are responsible for ensuring their pool is inspected and compliant with NSW Pool Safety Legislation. This article provides an overview of the legislation and what homeowners need to do to ensure their pool is safe.

INTRODUCTION TO NSW POOL INSPECTION LEGISLATION

If you are a homeowner with a swimming pool, it’s important to be aware of the NSW legislation for pool inspections. Under the Swimming Pools Act 1992 New South Wales, all owners of swimming pools and spa pools must ensure their pool is inspected by a qualified inspector at least once every three years. Owners who do not comply may face penalties, including fines and prison sentences.

So if you’re wondering what’s involved in a NSW pool inspection, keep reading. We’ll outline the requirements of the act and explain how you can find a qualified inspector.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU NEED TO HAVE YOUR POOL INSPECTED

It is important for NSW homeowners with swimming pools to know how often they need to have them inspected.Pool inspection frequency varies depending on the type of pool, the municipality it is located in, and whether or not the pool is public or private. In general, however, most NSW pools will require an inspection at least once every three years.

“… inspect pools associated with moveable dwellings, tourist and visitor accommodation at three-year intervals.”-

Homeowners who fail to have their pool inspected when required can face hefty fines.

WHO CAN INSPECT A POOL IN WOLLONGONG?

Only a licensed certifier (swimming-pool inspector lic, no bdc2542) with the relevant qualifications and licensing requirements will be able to undertake an inspection.

The Council may also carry out inspections so don’t hesitate taking advantage of this service if it’s available where you live – just call into any local council offices or click here for more information on how we work together.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN REASONS FOR A POOL FAILING A COMPLIANCE INSPECTION IN NSW?

If you’re a homeowner in NSW, it’s important to be aware of the main reasons why your pool might fail a compliance inspection. By understanding what these issues are, you’ll be in a better position to ensure that your pool passes inspection every time.

The presence of climbable objects close to a fence can make it difficult for compliance with pool regulations. These include trees, plant pots and BBQs as well clotheslines.
The pool sign is not only ill-placed, but also unreadable for most people.
The distance below the bottom of your pool to ground level, as well as its vertical elements, is more than 100mm
The pool fence height is less than 1200mm
The gate hinges or latches do not meet the local code.

With all this information, it is advised to contact an expert pool safety inspection certifier. The person can help you acquire the appropriate certificate needed as well and guide you through your process so that everything goes smoothly and without incident.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR POOL FAILS AN INSPECTION

The compliance inspection is an important step in the maintenance and upkeep of your swimming pool. If it fails, we will provide you with a detailed report listing all non-compliant items as well as photographs so that these can be addressed immediately – or potentially before someone else finds out about them.

So, if you’re the proud owner of a swimming pool, it’s important to keep in mind that safety should be your number one priority. That means getting a compliance certificate for your pool and ensuring that it meets all the necessary requirements. If you’re not sure where to start or need help throughout the process, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We’ll be more than happy to assist you in getting your pool up to code and keeping your loved ones safe all year long.

Why Get a Building and Pest Inspection Report in Wollongong?

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 06:04:33 GMT

If you’re a homeowner, then you know that it’s important to maintain your property. Not only does this protect your investment in Wollongong, but it also keeps you and your family safe. One of the best ways to ensure that your home is in good condition is to get a building and pest inspection report.

Here are five reasons why you should consider getting one in Wollongong.

1. Building and pest inspections are important because they can identify potential problems with a property before you buy it

No one ever thinks about the possibility of a pest infestation until it’s too late. By that time, the damage has often been done and can be costly to repair. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to get regular building and pest inspections. These inspections can identify potential problems before they become big issues.

Pests can also cause health problems, so it’s important to eliminate them as soon as possible. Building and pest inspections in Wollongong are a great way to do that.

2. A building inspection can reveal structural issues, while a pest inspection can uncover evidence of termites or other pests

Most homeowners never think about structural issues until there is a problem. Minor problems, like a small crack in the foundation, can often be fixed before they become bigger problems. But how do you know if there is a problem? A building and pest inspection can reveal potential structural issues that need to be fixed before they become a bigger issue.

A building and pest inspection in Wollongong will look at the condition of the property from top to bottom, including the roof, walls, windows, doors, and foundations. The inspector will also check for any signs of termites or other pests that could cause damage to the property. By getting an annual building and pest inspection, you can catch any minor problems before they turn into costly repairs.

3. By getting a building and pest inspection report in Wollongong, you can make an informed decision about whether or not to buy a property

Building and pest inspections are an important part of the home buying process. They help you understand the condition of the property and identify any potential problems. Having a building and pest inspection can give you peace of mind, knowing that you’re making an informed decision about your new home in Wollongong.

4. A building and pest inspection report is also useful for insurance purposes

If you’re a homeowner, you know that having insurance is important. But did you know that getting a building and pest inspection can also be helpful for insurance purposes? That’s because these inspections can help identify any potential problems with your property that could lead to future claims.

So if you’re thinking about buying or selling a home, be sure to talk to your insurance company about getting a building and pest inspection. They may be able to offer you some discounts on your policy if you do.4

So, should you get a building and pest inspection report in Wollongong? ABSOLUTELY. These reports can arm you with the information you need to make an informed decision about a property – before it’s too late. Protect yourself from costly repairs down the track by getting your home or office inspected today. Let’s talk.