the property book

Bank Reforms Bank Reforms AnnouncedAnnounced

What the new changes mean for youWhat the new changes mean for you

Nerang & Upper Coomera

The Reserve Bank hints at a break for home ownersbreak for home owners

RBA SIGNALS PAUSE ON RBA SIGNALS PAUSE ON RATESRATES

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RBA SIGNALS PAUSE ON RATES In delivering testimony to the House of Representatives Economics Committee, the Reserve Bank Governor has given clear signals that interest rate settings are on hold for now.The Governor didn’t want to dissuade people of the view that while rates could rise in the future, it would “not imminently” occur.

What does it all mean?Australia’s top economist – the Reserve Bank Governor – has candidly remarked that he wasn’t sure where rates would be in a year’s time: “I’m not sure myself actually.” Of course no one does know with certainty where rates will be in the future, although some economists regularly give the impression that they do have a more accurate crystal ball than the Reserve Bank. The Reserve Bank Governor said “the fact is I can’t tell you with certainty about what we will be doing in six months’ time.”

But while not providing numerical forecasts for rates over the coming year, the Reserve Bank has certainly given plenty of hints that they have done enough for now.

Governor Stevens noted that offi cial rates were now a little above normal. And while he noted that recent rate decisions were “fi nely balanced”, he thought that most people would be happy to get the rate hike out of the road “so you can rest for a while.” And while he acknowledged criticism of the last rate hike, the RBA Governor defended the decision, noting that there wasn’t too many times when you look back with regret that you lifted rates too early.

The Reserve Bank Governor and the Bank’s Assistant Governor Guy Debelle observed that while economists expected cash rates to

be around 5.5%, market pricing tipped rates of

5% mid next year. The Governor suggested that market pricing regularly changes but he didn’t want to dissuade people of the view that in the future there would be gradual increases in rates and not suffi ciently close together.

Overall, the Governor suggested that market pricing was about right – that is, that there could be a rate hike before mid next year and perhaps another increase late in the year.

The Governor noted that a “normal” cash rate was 5.5%, but banks had lifted rates a percentage point above the cash rate. “Most recently, as you know, the Board decided to lift the cash rate by 25 basis points. Many lenders raised their loan rates by more than this. These moves have left the overall setting of monetary policy a little tighter than average, as judged by interest rate criteria.” The

Governor noted that the Board judged at the last meeting that “it was prudent to take an early modest step in the tightening direction.”

Governor Stevens has referred to the “sea-change” in consumer behaviour with people now cautious to spend and borrow. He acknowledged that while this is tough for retailers, noting that consumption was below average at present, but said it was likely to persist for a while longer. He noted that the trend would be helpful given that signifi cant investment was planned: “I suspect a little more caution on consumption is

not a bad thing if we are to fi t it all (investment) in.”

The Governor sought to highlight changes in banking over time, noting the reduction in bank operating costs and reduction of the net interest rate margin. He also sought to correct perceptions that banks were given free access to the Federal Government’s AAA rating to raise wholesale funds, stating that the Government “sold the guarantee at quite a nice price” and would collect $1 billion per annum in fees from banks as a result.

What are the implications for interest rates and investors?Investors will welcome the relative candid comments by the Reserve Bank Governor on interest rates, and the economy more broadly. Glenn Stevens reckons that rate settings are appropriate to keep infl ation in the target band over the coming year. Certainly he acknowledges that no one knows the future with certainty, but Glenn Stevens must be pretty happy with a situation where the economy is recording good growth and where infl ation is within the target band – especially when other economies are struggling with

weak growth, high unemployment and defl ationary risks.

Many economists, analysts and media commentators will attempt to put their own spin on the RBA Governor’s comments. We would simply suggest that people get a transcript of his testimony and read it yourself. The messages are fairly clear – especially for a Reserve Bank that has been accused in the distant past of being quite opaque.

Monetary policy can now be described as “tight” – not markedly so, but rates are between a quarter and a half a per cent above “normal”.

‘The Reserve Bank has certainly given plenty of hints that they have done enough for now....’

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Exit fees will also be banned from July 1, 2011, and the Australian Competi ti on and Consumer Commission will be given the power to investi gate price collusion among banks.

While ANZ scrapped exit charges in November, the big banks charge up to $900, while some smaller non-bank lenders demand up to $7300 from borrowers for the privilege of switching out of a loan.

The Government says the Australian Securiti es and Investments Commission would take banks to court if they tried to lock borrowers into a loan before the exit fee ban came into eff ect.

Fact sheetThe compulsory fact sheet will make clear

Bank reforms announcedHomebuyers will be given a one-page fact sheet outlining their monthly mortgage repayments and how they can shop around for a better loan, under new reforms.

Our Sales & Property Management TeamsOffi ce:NERANG UPPER COOMERA

07 55000254

Offi ce:

07 55960055nfn.com.au uppercoomera.com.auEarle Plaza, Cnr Price and White StreetsNerang Q 4211

Coomera City CentreCnr Days and Old Coach RoadsUpper Coomera Q 4209

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to borrowers the monthly repayment rates, and will even compare their loan with deals on off er from rival lenders.

It will also spell out how much a borrower would actually be paying back over the life of the mortgage once fees and interest

are accounted for.

The reform aims to make it easier for borrowers to compare home loans between lenders.

Fair goTreasurer Wayne Swan has said the package of banking reforms will “promote a competi ti ve and sustainable banking system to give every Australian a fairer go’’.

But the Government is warning there is no simple way to give bank customers greater leverage against the power of the the Big Four - the Commonwealth, ANZ, Westpac, NAB.

These banks angered consumers by pushing interest rates on mortgages and small business loans well above the offi cial rates set by the Reserve Bank - at the same ti me as they announced huge profi ts.

Smaller lendersThe bulk of the Government’s competi ti on reform is aimed at the industry itself and the dominance of the Big Four.

The Government wants to promote alternati ves to the Big Four by supporti ng the mutual

sector.

As many as 20 mutual funds would be able to use the term “bank” under guidelines to be set by the Australian Prudenti al Regulati on Authority.

A further $4 billion would be invested in the $16 billion already allocated to backing high-quality mortgage backed securiti es.

This would add to the ability of smaller lenders to compete for the business which usually goes to banks.

Moves to secure the general fi nancial system would include permission for banks, credit unions and building societi es to issue covered bonds, and develop a “deep and liquid’’ corporate bond market.

‘The banking reforms will promote a competitive and sustainable banking system...’

44

Question 1:My thunder comes before the lightning;My lightning comes before the clouds;My rain dries all the land it touches.What am I?Question 2:What is it that, after you take away the whole, some still remains?

Question 3: I’m light as a feather, yet the strongest man can’t hold me for much more than a minute. What am I?

To be in with a chance, just answer any one of the following Brain Teasers correctly. For every correct answer you will have one chance in the draw. Submit your answers at nfn.com.au/brainteasers

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In 2010, First National Nerang once again decided to donate to a children’s charity instead of sending Christmas cards to all of our clients.

Our offi ce began this tradition in 2009, when after seeing the amount that was being spent on printing costs and decided that the money would be better spent on kids in our local area that may otherwise miss out on Christmas all together.

Julie Morgan-Kemp and Jacinta Gilmore headed to Westfi eld Shopping Centre in Helensvale, armed with shopping trolleys and a list to pick out $1,000 worth of gifts. After over 3 hours, the car was full for toys and gifts for kids and teens, all given directly to the Salvation Army in Nerang.

We would like to make a special mention to Kmart Helensvale, who gave us a discount allowing us to squeeze in a few more presents.

There is nothing more wonderful than the look on a small child’s face as we give them the gift of Christmas and we can’t help but think how much better off these charities would be if everybody adopted this alternative.

First National Nerang help give local kids a merry Christmas

IMAGINE being able to use your rental history as evidence of genuine savings when trying to get a home loan.

Well now you can. Mortgage broker Loan Market has been lobbying the banks to allow people applying for a home loan to use rental payments as evidence of savings and it has been answered by one of the nation’s major lenders.

Loan Market chief operating offi cer Dean Rushton says St George has become the fi rst Australian bank to change its requirements in regards to rental payments, in a move which will provide much-needed help to fi rst-home buyers.

Rushton says St George will accept rent as a form of savings for a home deposit if there is evidence of a minimum of 12 months continuous, satisfactory rental history and the property is leased through a licensed property manager.

This is a signifi cant breakthrough for

fi rst-home buyers and a move which could be a major boost to the home fi nance industry, he says.

Higher interest rates, tougher lending conditions and the end of the boosted federal government grants at the end of last year have driven fi rst-time buyers out of the market.

Another major restriction has been the diffi culty in saving a deposit for a home loan, particularly in this economic climate with people having to cope with massive cost of living increases including rental payments.

Australian lenders require a percentage of the purchase price normally 5 per cent minimum to be saved for all loans but it is extremely diffi cult for people paying the high rents customary these days to save money.

If rental payments are taken into consideration as a factor in assessing genuine savings, that would enable many people to pursue the dream of home ownership.

Rental history to now help get a home loan

Many investors instinctively know that engaging a qualifi ed property manager to look after their rental property is worth the cost. But the rapid rise in interest rates has forced landlords to try and claw back expenses wherever they can, including by self-managing their property as a DIY landlord.

There are several pros and cons to weigh up when deciding whether to be a DIY landlord or to engage a professional property manager. The obvious benefi t of cutting out the middle man is the cost-saving: you won’t have to shell out 5-9% of your weekly rental income to a managing agent.

Despite the benefi ts of DIY, Mark Woschnak, CEO of rent.com.au, advocates the use of a property manager, because, due to their experience, the level of related services they can offer both the landlord and the tenant are usually more extensive than what you may think is best practice.

He adds that property managers can act as mediators when things go wrong as tenants often fi nd it easier and less intimidating to discuss matters with property managers. By having an unemotional ‘third party’, a better level of communication can be achieved between all parties.

There are plenty of legal issues for landlords to be aware of, and investors who engage a professional property manager benefi t from an extra set of eyes and ears to ensure they are abiding by the law. If you choose to go it alone, however, you need to take full responsibility for every communication and transaction you have with tenants, industry bodies and suppliers.

A professional property manager is trained and experienced at handling these types of issues, says Roslyn Lahiff, asset manager with PRDnationwide Deborah Kerr Lane Cove, and this is important, because individual landlords are not always aware of “all of the

legislation”.

Even in situations where the tenant seems to be in the wrong – for example, they might be behind on the rent – landlords who don’t follow the letter of the law can fi nd themselves out of pocket, as the legislation is very clear about how tenants should be managed and communicated with.

“The benefi t of using a professional property manager is that you get someone who is unbiased, trained and experienced, and has a database of on-call suppliers and contacts to assist along the way. And the fees are tax deductible.”

According to landlord insurance provider Terri Scheer, landlords who manage their own rental properties are more likely to experience problems with tenants than those who appoint property managers.

Carolyn Majda, Terri Scheer’s general manager of insurance, said the DIY strategy could backfi re for landlords. “Landlords who self-manage their properties clearly have the objective of saving money, but in the process they may take short cuts and be unaware of property management procedures,” Majda says.

“They often don’t have proper 5

‘The benefi t of using a property manager is that you get someone who is unbiased, trained and experienced’

Becoming a DIY landlordSelf-managing your investment property may help you save in management fees – but dealing with tenants, coordinating repairs, keeping up with the laws, conducting inspections and chasing up rent can cause a few headaches.

rental agreements in place and lack the experience to undertake adequate screening processes when choosing a tenant, and often don’t have time to conduct regular property inspections.”

Problem tenants are also more likely to “target unsuspecting DIY landlords”, Majda says, because they know that the landlord’s inexperience can make it easier for them to get away with damaging a property or not

paying rent.

“Not all tenants are bad, of course, but the unexpected can happen,” Majda says.“If problems do arise with a particular tenant, having a property manager means that they can represent the landlord in a professional manner to quickly resolve the problem.

Are looking for a someone to manage your property? First National Nerang and Upper Coomera have a dedicated team of experienced property managers.

First National Real Estate Nerang and Upper Coomera can help make moving from one area to another easy. Not only can we sell your existing property, we can also assist in fi nding your new home before you leave your old home.

Find your new home before you leave your old homeFirst National Real Estate can help make moving from one home to another an easy process, whether you’re moving across the country, across town, or across the road. Our relocation programme means your local First National agent works with the First National Real Estate offi ce in the area you are considering moving to. That offi ce responds by supplying a list of suitable properties as well as an information pack on the region.

Moving with young childrenVisit fi rstnational.com.au and watch our FN Television episode “Moving with Children” for tips on how to

ease the process for everyone.

Local knowledge makes for a sound decisionMany First National Real Estate members are second and third generation agents in their local area.

They can share their local knowledge to supply details of your future location, including schools; shopping centres, sports facilities and local organisations. This information is essential to making a sound decision.

Rent before you move inFirst National Real Estate can assist with rental property should you need accommodation before you have access to your new home (or while you search for the right property).

Search online for more informationSearching for properties online is easy with our website: www.nfn.com.au As well as being able to search for residential properties to purchase or rent, free Home Buyer and Home Seller guides plus rental application forms are available to download.

Alternatively, you can request a printed guide be sent to your home address by completing an online form.

Call us on 07 55960055 or 07 55000254 and ask us to help you on your next move!

6

Helping You Relocate First National Real Estate understand when it comes to moving families. We’re the experts.

Real Estate Salespeople Is your sales career in the right place? Are you earning what you deserve? How much better would it be working with the REIA and REIQ “Agency of the Year 2010”? TO FIND OUT MORE go to: www.nfn.com.au/career

This very pretty feline is 5 year old Bonnie. Her previous owner stated that she is sociable with most other cats and some dogs. Bonnie has loads of affection and companionship to offer the right person and a calm household would suit her best.Bonnie is just $70 and is desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and wormed and also comes with all the free new owner support you could need.

If you would like to meet Scruffy or Bonnie contact the Coombabah Rehoming Centre AWLQ on 5509 9000, or visit awlqld.com.au for more information.

Scruffy is a 2 year old Aussie Cattle cross Airedale Terrier that’s full of beans! She’s a happy girl but needs

routine and further training to keep her disciplined, stimulated and content. Scruffy is just $170 and is desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and wormed and also comes with all the free new owner support you could need.

Pets of the Month

Office 55 960055quick search these properties and more at www.nfn.com.au

NerangUpper Coomera

Every precaution has been taken to establish the accuracy of the above information but does not constitute any representation by the vendor or agent.

2010 Australian Agency of the YearMedium Residential Agency

quick search these properties and more at www.nfn.com.auEvery precaution has been taken to establish the accuracy of the above information but does not constitute any representation by the vendor or agent.

Price: $228,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/40166 Contact: Andrew Davidson 0411 760 600

Perfect Position• Two large bedrooms• Open plan living and dining• Powder room for guests• Garden shed for extra storage• Private front courtyard• Lockup carport

• Very central location - walk to shops, cafes, Coles, library and more!

• Body corp approx. $20pw

NERANG 2 1 1

Price: $239,000Web www.nfn.com.au/29806Contact: Steve Hayes 0421 643 871

Renovated & Ready to GO!• Two massive bedrooms• Open plan living• Separate ‘fl exi space’ - great

study or 2nd living area• Stunning modern kitchen• Timber laminate fl ooring

• Reverse cycle air conditioning• Newly tiled bathroom• Terrifi c CBD location

NERANG 2 1 1

Price: $239,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/28075 Contact: Steve Hayes 0421 643 871

In The Heart of the CBD!• Three bedrooms• Open plan living and dining• Rear patio area and wide open

space lawn• Lockup garage• Pool and tennis court in complex

• Great CBD location, walk to every-thing and everywhere

• Good tenant in place paying $280pw

NERANG 3 1 1

Price: Interest Over $260,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/30596 Contact: Shawn Barber 0404 257 243

Splittin’ Up, Sell’n Up!• Three bedrooms• Spacious open plan living• Good sized kitchen• Private fenced courtyard• Lockup garage• End unit location, very private

• 2 pools, 2 tennis courts and park area in complex

• Bus stop and shop at front gate

MERRIMAC 3 1 1

Price: $270,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/40889 Contact: Shawn Barber 0404 257 243

Beautiful Villa with Views!• 2 bedroom villa• Large lounge/dining area• Well appointed kitchen • Air conditioning• Private front courtyard• Lockup garage

• Well maintained complex with pool• Currently tenanted at $295 per week • Close to all amenities

HIGHLAND PARK 2 1 1

Price: From $250,000Contact: The sales team 07 5596 0055

Various Building BlocksBuild the home of your dreams on one of our many vacant lots for sale.Lots vary from residential sites, prestige lots with coastal views to private acreage lots. What are you waiting for? Call now!

VACANT LAND 0 0 0


NerangUpper Coomera



Price: $319,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/45824 Contact: Paul Moitzi 0423 589 958

Sought after Carrara Gardens• 3 double bedrooms, ensuite• Open plan design with separate

living and meal areas• Terrifi c large modern kitchen• Private fenced rear courtyard• Lockup garage

• Security gated pet friendly estate• Stroll to shopping complex• Tenanted $350pw until July

CARRARA 3 2 1

Auction: Onsite 29th JanuaryWeb: www.nfn.com.au/44381 Contact: Shawn Barber 0404 257 243

Rustic Cottage Charmer• Two bedrooms plus loft or 3rd

bedroom• Open plan design with cosy

combustion fi replace• Solid keystone architecture • Timber kitchen

• Timber panelled cathedral ceilings• Lockup garage plus carport• 2046m2 corner lot

BEECHMONT 3 1 2

Price: $380,000Web www.nfn.com.au/31415 Contact: Steven Hayes 0421 673 871

Investor’s Delight!• Three bedrooms• Semi ensuite to master• Open plan lounge and dining• Separate family room• Wide galley style kitchen• Large covered outdoor living area

• Low maintenance yard• LU garage plus off road parking• Currently tenanted with a long lease

HIGHLAND PARK 3 1 1

Price: Offers Over $390,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/40875 Contact: Shawn Barber 0404 257 243

Top Value Home with Pool!• 3 good sized bedrooms• Semi ensuite to master• Split level fl oorplan• Separate dining area• Big kitchen with loads of space • Covered outdoor area

• Inground pool• LU garage with drive through access

HIGHLAND PARK 3 1 1


Modern Cottage Charm• Two bedrooms plus loft• Open plan design• Beautiful modern kitchen• Tall raked cathedral ceilings• Timber fl oors• Air conditioning

• Modern bathroom with spa• Lockup garage• Walk to everything!

NERANG 2 1 1

Price: $285,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/25073 Contact: Susie Gale 0406 901 350

Amazing Value Home!• Three bedrooms• Spacious open plan living area• Covered & enclosed patio area• Guest powder room• LU garage with internal access• Quiet rear position backing to

pool and tennis court• BONUS! 12 Months body

corp. fees paid for 12 months!

HIGHLAND PARK 3 1 1


NerangUpper Coomera




Spacious, Stylish and Sexy• Four bedrooms, ensuite• Modern kitchen with dishwasher• Air conditioning• Separate living areas• Double lockup garage• Large covered outdoor area

• Double lockup steel workshed with double carport

NERANG 4 2 6


Delightfully Different• Four bedrooms• Ensuite plus 2 main bathrooms• Open plan family room, meals

area and study nook• Spacious lounge opening to a

wide breezy screened balcony

• Ducted air conditioning • Inground pool with huge deck• Covered entertaining area

NERANG 4 3 2


Livin’ Large!• Four bedrooms, ensuite• Formal lounge room• Separate tiled family room• Air conditioning• HUGE rumpus with wet bar• Spacious covered deck area

• Double garage, single garage plus workshop

• 1234m2 lot, fully fenced

HIGHLAND PARK 4 2 3

Price: $459,000Web www.nfn.com.au/30626 Contact: Andrew Davidson 0411 760 600

Down by the Riverside!• 4 bedrooms, ensuite• Good size lounge room• Separate family & games rooms• Air conditioning• Double garage with workshop

area plus single lockup garage

• Huge covered outdoor living area overlooking riverside bushland

NERANG 4 2 3


Great for Active Families!• Four bedrooms, ensuite• Separate living and dining areas• Functional galley style kitchen• Huge covered entertaining area• Massive backyard for the kids• Air conditioning

• Double carport• Fully landscaped

WORONGARY 4 2 2


Ultra Modern Magic!• Sensational steel frame home• 3 large bedrooms• Open plan living and dining• Air conditioning• Stunning new open kitchen• Large double garage with toilet

• Pool with decking & shade sail• Wide side access for additional

secure parking

HIGHLAND PARK 3 1 2


NerangUpper Coomera




As New, Riverside Home• Four large bedrooms, ensuite• Stunning ultra modern kitchen• Very spacious lounge room• Separate family room• Large deck overlook the river• Double lockup carport

• 1007m2 riverside lot• Sought after street a short walk

to shops, cinemas, library etc

NERANG 4 2 2


Private Acreage Gem• Three bedrooms plus ensuite• Separate big rumpus room or

4th bedroom• Study/offi ce• Spacious lounge room with high

pitched raked ceilings

• Beautiful covered deck• 4065m2 lot private and landscaped• Big lockup garage plus 3 car carport

GAVEN 3 2 4


Executive Lifestyle• 3 bedroom executive townhouse• Massive master bedroom with

ensuite and spa bath• Spacious sunken lounge room• Large loft plus library or offi ce• Large modern kitchen

• Double auto LU garage• Estate boasts pool, tennis courts, gym,

24 hour security & more

CLEAR ISLAND WATERS 3 2 2


Super Size Luxury!• Four bedrooms, two ensuites• Parents retreat with kitchenette

- dual living potential!• Extra large offi ce• Separate spacious living areas• Brand new modern kitchen

• Beautiful inground pool• Covered outdoor entertaining area• Double garage plus double shade sail

NERANG 4 3 4


Dual Living Acreage Homes• Four bedrooms, ensuite• Large open lounge and dining• Terrifi c modern kitchen• Air cond, and solar hot water• Two bedroom self contained fl at• Long covered outdoor living area

• LU workshed, tandem LU garage plus double carport

• 4312m2 lot, gently sloping

UPPER COOMERA 6 3 4

Price: $485-510,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/43917 Contact: Julie Morgan-Kemp 0409 870 301

A Touch Of Heritage• Three bedrooms plus sleepout• Lovely eat in kitchen• Separate living rooms• Timber fl ooring and tall ceilings• Lead light windows• Front & rear entertaining decks

• 6x9m 3 bay shed and 6x5.5m 2 bay shed

• 7.4 (approx) acres with dam

ADVANCETOWN 3 1 4


NerangUpper Coomera



Price: $695-729,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/30483 Contact: Julie Morgan-Kemp 0409 870 301

Awesome Acreage Home• 4 bedrooms, 2 with ensuites• Private parents retreat• Formal & informal living• Air conditioning• Inground pool and Bali hut • 2902m2 landscaped block

• Double auto lockup garage plus driveway to 9m x 7.5m shed

MOUNT NATHAN 4 3 4


Stunning Executive Acreage• 4100m2 lot, great street presence• Four bedrooms plus large study• Ensuite and spa to master• Multiple spacious living areas• Beautiful modern timber kitchen• Ducted air conditioning

• Huge covered outdoor area with outdoor kitchen

• Triple garage plus double shed

MOUNT NATHAN 4 3 5

Price: $749,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/25049 Contact: Julie 0409 870 301 Paul 0423 589 958

Prime Position, Must Be Sold• 280 degree views to Surfers• Four bedrooms, ensuite• Massive games room• Expansive open living and family• Huge gourmet kitchen• Large front and rear balconies

• Ducted air con and Vaccu-maid• Salt water pool with water feature• Double lockup garage

HIGHLAND PARK 4 2 2


Private Acreage - Dual Living!• Three bedrooms plus large study• Self contained studio granny fl at• Wide covered entertaining area

plus front deck• Separate huge rumpus with bar• Insulated lockup steel workshed

• Double lockup garage• 8923m2 lot (2.2 acres) on a

private road

WORONGARY 4 3 3

Price: $825 - 879,000Web: www.nfn.com.au/25020 Contact: Julie Morgan-Kemp 0409 870 301

50Sqs, Perfect for Dual Living!• 4000m2 lot with 2 street access• 2 master suites each with ensuite

plus 4 double bedrooms• Huge modern kitchen with• Three separate living areas• Giant covered outdoor area

• Inground salt pool with Bali hut• 9x7m shed with power & carport • Double auto garage and more!

MAUDSLAND 6 3 6

Price: By negotiationWeb: www.nfn.com.au/28454 Contact: Paul Moitzi 0423 589 958

CBD Fringe Home Offi ce!• Four bedrooms, ensuite• Separate large 9 x 8m offi ce• 3 Separate living areas• Large new kitchen with gas cook-

ing and granite benchtops• IG pool with wide gazebo area

• Double shade sail parking plus loads of off street parking

• 2636m2 block, close to CBD

NERANG 4 2 2

What to do if your dwelling is fl ood damaged• Start at the roof - remove the iron or tiles to allow the sun to shine in to help the drying out process• Check for vermin - there could be rats or snakes in the roof space that have entered the building to

escape the fl ood• Remove any water-damaged insulation in the walls or ceilings and replace plasterboard• Furniture should be put somewhere to dry, then you can start spraying everything clean with a high-

pressure hose• Replacement meter boxes will need to be fi tted. All other electrical equipment must be checked and

replaced where necessary;• Place old photos in a fl at container of water with some detergent. The detergent will separate them. • Following fl oods, large pools typically form under the house. These areas need to be re-graded to

prevent long-term structural damage like rotted fl oor framing• Be careful of power points and switches that collect mud and impurities. Ensure a licensed electrician

checks these and a licensed plumber checks any water or gas appliances prior to reconnection• Beware the termites - debris and rotting wood left from fl ood waters are an ideal food source for

termites so undertake a professional pest inspection.

As fl oods the size of Germany and France wreaked havoc in Queensland, First National agents have been doing their bit to contribute to recovery efforts.

Initially, First National members have been very busy securing tenanted homes and managing their repairs in the days, weeks and months to come. At times such as these, our fi rst priority must be the safety and security of the many families and individuals residing in fl ood affected properties under First National’s care. Electrical systems must be checked, interiors refurbished, roofs repaired and pools restored to healthy conditions.

Additionally, the First National Foundation’s support of Australian Red Cross Emergency Services will help assure that Red Cross has the capacity to assist all Queenslanders in need.

The Red Cross “Emergency REDiPlan” programme has already invested considerable time and resources making sure that Australian communities are well prepared for natural disasters such as

those that have unfolded in Queensland. Red Cross offi cials responded to the fl ooding and have moved into recovery phase.

In December 2010, First National Real Estate members passed the $1 million mark with donations to Red Cross Emergency Services.

If you would like to donate to the Emergency REDiPlan, donations can be made at the First National Nerang offi ce.

Queensland Battered

$raised since December by First National Real Estate for the Australian Red Cross

Another $15,800

the property book

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