With so much emphasis on property in the media, it can be difficult to sort fact from fiction. But before investing in any type of asset―including property―it pays to consider the pros and cons, and any commonly held misconceptions.
Here we bust 3 property myths.
Myth 1: Prices always go up
Believing that property always goes up is understandable―especially given prices have dramatically increased in our major cities in recent years.
But like most investments, the property market demonstrates cyclical patterns. That means, at times property performance can be stagnant and show little or no growth. And like many investment cycles, a boom can be followed by a bust1.
Myth 2: All property is the same
When we think about property, we tend to think about it as one market. We generally take a macroscopic view. We hear about the performance of Australian property and may think that buying a property anywhere will turn out to be a good investment. But this approach can lead to decisions that fail to yield the results we expect.
Within the property market are countless micro-markets. And property prices can depend on the different economies they have links to―as we’ve seen in Australian mining towns where prices reached record highs in recent years only to be followed by a sharp decline.
Similarly, we hear general reports in the media that property prices are rising and this general sentiment can set unrealistic expectations. For example, specific price expectations in the CBD should be markedly different from those in a particular region or suburb. But we may tend to think that all prices in all areas will always rise. And this is where the danger lies.
Myth 3: Property’s a sure thing
The combination of low mortgage rates and rising home values means debt levels have increased dramatically. In fact, the ratio of household debt to disposable income is recorded at 155.9%―a record high2.
If you cannot afford to repay a home loan due to changes in personal circumstances, such as losing your job, your entire financial future can be put at risk. Any slumps in house prices could result in many people being unable to cover outstanding loan amounts if forced to sell.
Take a long-term view
It’s important to think about property as a long term investment, even when buying a home to live in―and to borrow within your means so you’re not financially stretched. Explore your capacity to repay a loan with our borrowing power calculator.
And if you take on a home loan, consider buying insurance to help protect you in case your circumstances change and you’re unable to meet your loan repayments.
When it comes to investing, it’s important not to put all your eggs in one basket. That way you may be able to protect your money by spreading risk over different markets. Please contact us to find out more about the types of investments that may suit you.
Source : AMP 17th September 2015
1 http://advice.realestateview.com.au/buying/beginner-guide-to-investing/4/
Important information
© AMP Life Limited. This provides general information and hasn’t taken your circumstances into account. It’s important to consider your particular circumstances before deciding what’s right for you. Although the information is from sources considered reliable, AMP does not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. You should not rely upon it and should seek qualified advice before making any investment decision. Except where liability under any statute cannot be excluded, AMP does not accept any liability (whether under contract, tort or otherwise) for any resulting loss or damage of the reader or any other person.
