How to: Buy off the plan with success
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As apartment developments are popping up left, right and centre, the term ‘off the plan’ is increasingly prominent.
These apartments, offered to buyers before they are built, are generally listed at a cheaper rate with incentives sometimes pinned on.
Here, we look at the upsides of buying off the plan and what it all means.
Buying an off the plan apartment is ultimately “buying sight unseen”, according to John Carfi, chief executive officer of Mirvac Residential. Therefore it’s important to buy from a reputable developer and builder with a good track record.
“Off the plan properties can deliver great returns to investors, providing a stable rental income, the potential for capital gain and tax benefits through depreciation and negative gearing,” says Carfi.
Carfi says a well-designed property, which has a high level of amenity and is close to infrastructure such as public transport, schools, shops and open space, is more likely to attract a higher rent and be easy to let.
If you’re planning on buying off the plan, you should always research the area and contact the local council to get an understanding of the area zoning and any pending development applications, to avoid investing in a development jungle.
buying off the plan generally, but not always, means buying at a better price.
“When developers first offer their new projects they often offer them at discounted prices in order to secure required pre-sales for the bank,” says Ross Le Quesne mortgage broker at Aussie Home Loans.
“When the required number of pre-sales is met and construction begins the prices generally rise.
“Therefore, for investors who commit early to an off the plan purchase there is often a good price incentive,” says Le Quesne.
Buyers who purchase in the first release are also offered a greater selection of apartments than buyers in subsequent releases or at completion, according to Adam Sparkes director of sales and marketing at Crown Group.
“Those who get in early also have more choice when it comes to position and aspect,” says Sparkes.
A positive of buying off the plan means you are also locking in the current market value, which may increase between the purchase date and the settlement date. Off the plan apartments only require a deposit until the development is complete, which also gives you time to organise your finances.
As an off the plan purchaser you may get to customise your new property. Often buyers may have a choice of finishes to choose from including different colours, tiles, various fixtures and fittings as well as layouts, which the developer may be able to incorporate such as merging two apartments into one large one.
There are also various government grants and stamp duty exemptions to first time property buyers.
“Off the plan developments can sometimes prove to be a good opportunity for first home buyers to get into the market faster, with most state governments offering first home buyers significant incentives,” says Kevin Lee, buyers agent at Smart Property Adviser.
Another benefit of off-the-plan properties is the tax depreciation benefit; the newer the property, the more tax deductions are available. The buyer is able to claim depreciation on their tax for items including fixtures and fittings.
“As the benefits are greatest when the property is brand new – buying off the plan maximises your available tax deductions,” says Paul Biller principal of 1st City Hasemer & Caldwell-Eyles.
Before purchasing an off the plan property, research the developers and builders to know who you’re buying with, research the area and any pending development applications and always consult with your accountant on what tax benefits you’re eligible for.
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