Homeownership: Building the Dream in Australia

Image via: Mr. Mitchell Designers & Decorators – Melbourne

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Owning in Australia

Those who are not natives of Australia must attain permission through the proper authorities; theForeign Investment Review Bureau (FIRB) is the place to start. Each state hosts individual rules. Though the sentiment of owning a home is exciting, a lot of preparation and paperwork await those at the start.

Couture or Cookie Cutter

Many young families like the idea of not just building a new home, but owning something truly unique. Some areas host scores of homes yet the exteriors and interiors differ very little. Alternatively, you can have your home built to customised specifications, needing to pay substantially more depending on your desires.

In addition, some builders, selling pre-made plans, allow you to use their specs with your own architect who makes alterations at your will. The Builders Regulation Board regulates Aussie builders and contractors who must be licensed within the state where you own property.

Turnkey or Drawn-out

Some suggest seeking the services of ‘turnkey’ outfits, services that handle just about every detail for to-be owners so the latter party does not have to concern themselves until the job is finished. Alternatively, those who would like to ensure things are done to exact specifications may seek services that allow owners to have a lot of input regarding each step of the building process.

Image via: Bagnato Architects

Stamp Duty

As in the UK, those who are buying land and/or property in Australia are subject to stamp duty. It is a tax amount affixed according to the value of the total property. There is a tax applied to the plot of land (if just buying land mass), but there is a tax applied to both the house and land for owners purchasing pre-existing homes. Stamp duty varies from state to state; so make sure you are up to speed with what is applicable in your area. See photos; learn about available resources; and, meet your neighbours.

First-Time Buys

There are a number of Australia-based incentives and possible grants for homebuyers, most of which apply only to first-time homeowners. For example, first-time buyers may be exempt from paying stamp duty, yet each state holds the right to host its own specifications. Contact your local government to find if any grants or incentives are applicable to your respective condition. While it may seem like an additional stress to build a new home in a completely new land, some loopholes and grants pique the interest of foreigners and Aussie natives alike.

Spencer Hastings is a property consultant and researcher. He enjoys keeping up with all the latest moves in the real estate and property investments scene. His articles mainly focus on home ownership issues. Visit The Rivergums website for more homeownership ideas and insights.

For more home buying tips on Stagetecture, click here.

Family Day Trips in Sydney Australia

Image via: Conde Nast Traveler

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Taronga Zoo

Introduce your kids to animals from around the globe at Taronga Zoo. Situated on hillside above the harbor, just 12 minutes travel from the city; it’s an experience not to be missed. Taronga dates back to 1916 and boasts of huge number of animals, all housed in big landscaped enclosures. Highlights include more than 2000 endangered creatures, koalas, kangaroos, performing seals, red pandas, Sumatran tigers, snow leopards, and Asian elephants. If you fancy something more adventures, camp overnight at the zoo in safari tents and wake up to the roaring sounds of lions as part of the zoo’s “roar and snore” sleep over program.

Image via: foursquare.com

Treetop Adventure Park

It’s not often that your kids get to climb on trees or swing like a Tarzan though the forest-in safety. But at the treetop adventure park you can slide down the cables, fly through the air on flying boxes and move from tree to tree on suspension bridges. The park is a great day out for the entire family where kids as young as three can take part. Of course the experience is carried out at the participant’s own pace. Located less than an hour of west Sydney in the Western Sydney Parklands, Treetop Park aims for minimal environmental impact on the forest.

Luna Park

Luna is a classic old time amusement park located at Milsons Point. Full of thrills and action, it is one of the top attractions in Sydney for families. With spectacular views of the harbour and all your favorite crazy rides, it’s a fun-filled experience where younger ones can go wild and adults can channel their hidden kid. The giant smiling face welcomes you on arrival and invites all visitors to experience a fun and action packed day.

Image via: Hip Gram

Overall, Sydney is a great family destination. There is always something going on in the city for kids and adults alike. Moreover, getting around Sydney and nearby areas with whole family is also easy. Just pick a travel pass and you will be able to travel on cheap on trains, ferries, and buses.

For more travel ideas on Stagetecture, click here.