M Group
How to Improve the Occupancy and Profitability of an Investment Property
While REIWA reported its September Quarter vacancy rate at an encouraging 2.9%, the stats drawn from apartment property management specialists, M/Property, were even lower at 1.97%. As experts in this sector, they believe there is always scope to improve the occupancy and profitability of an investment property.
M/Property is one of the only specialist apartment management and leasing companies in the State. With a dedicated leasing team and over 18 years’ experience in apartment management, the company manages over 600 apartments at any one time.
M/Property Senior Property Manager, Tammy Smith, says that even though the vacancy rate is low in WA, Perth apartment investors can still miss out on valuable and quality tenancies simply by not understanding what is important to the renter.
“We are experiencing a market shift in Western Australia towards long-term renting as a lifestyle choice. This represents an incredible opportunity for property investors,” she said.
“Unlike conventional homes where size and space are often the important factor, when it comes to apartments, location, presentation and flexibility are paramount to both the existing and emerging apartment rental market.”
Tammy says apartments close to community infrastructure, those with access to great facilities and ones outlooks tend to get snapped up, there are a range of other factors that a property investor can control to attract and retain great tenants.
- Sell the dream with professional photography
Rental properties traditionally don’t get the same promotional treatment as homes available for sale. However, in a competitive market, owners will get more interest and potentially higher rentals if they ‘sell the dream’ with professional photography during the marketing phase.
- Add value with furniture
While not for everyone, adding a furniture package to the mix can significantly increase the rental return. A well-furnished apartment can rent out for 25%-75% more than unfurnished apartments. The cost of furniture is also often tax deductable.
- Be flexible with pets
Pet-friendly apartments are increasing in demand as more renters opt for making their apartment a long-term home. In fact, many States across Australia are changing legislation to make it easier for pet ownership in rental properties. Why not get ahead of the game to lock good tenants in early.
- Engage an approachable team
There is nothing more off-putting to a renter than being made to feel like a second-rate citizen. Ensure your property management team are approachable and responsive to not only the renters’ concerns, but also yours.
Tammy says a property management team with a sound knowledge of strata management is also imperative for apartment investors, together with a good relationship with building/facility managers and a solid database of good tenants to source the best tenant for the apartment.
For more information on M/Property services visit www.mproperty.com.au.
Titles Arrive for Large Lot Wellard Estate
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M Group
Titles Arrive for Large Lot Wellard Estate
Titles have been issued for the first tranche of oversized homesites located at the new-concept boutique estate, The Wedge. The event signals the completion of Stage 1, which already has some 30% of available land sold.
The Wedge is located on one of the last development sites within the sought-after Wellard North community. Homesites have been designed in response to a recognised family preference for larger land, with lot sizes ranging between 350sq.m and 475sq.m
Developer Mr John Wroth, Director of Monument parent company M/Group, said he is looking forward to heightened activity within the estate now that the land is ‘build-ready’. He said, being A-Class titled land with no bushfire conditions, owners will have the flexibility to select from a broad range of home styles and designs.
“There is no question that we successfully acquired a very special piece of land to work with at The Wedge. True to its name, the site is ‘wedged’ within one of the most sought after areas in the region. It is surrounded by the stunning Bulrush Nature Reserve, which is protected land that will continue to provide a natural shelter and lush green backdrop,” he said.
“Once in the estate, however, we are beginning to see a glimpse of the character and lifestyle features planned for the site. This includes large lot sizes based on market feedback, children’s playground and pump-track, walkways and ample public space. Together with the proximity to impressive community amenity, there is little wonder that the initial land release attracted so much momentum.”
The Wedge is located between the freeway and the ocean and is close to public transport, medical facilities, schools, shopping and just 30 minutes to Perth CBD.
It is being developed to a company philosophy that seeks to introduce a sense of distinction and character to an environment through considered design and special features. Such an approach is in keeping with the broader M/Group values and has already been highly successful at sister developments in Secret Harbour and Beeliar.
“As soon as you approach the entry statement at The Wedge, it is quite obvious that this is not a typical land estate,” Mr Wroth continued.
“We look beyond the standard ‘cookie-cutter’ environment to create a new style of estate that really sets it apart from the rest. This approach has now been successful across three consecutive estates and we are thrilled the market is responding positively.”
The Wedge is located on Bertram Road, Wellard North and Stage 1 homesites start from $174,000.
For more information visit www.thewedgewellard.com.au or contact Damyn Strang 0434 070 654.
Safe and Stylish in the City
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M Group
Safe and Stylish in the City
As a school teacher and single woman, Debbie Bruce was looking for a safe and centrally located home with everything she loved close by. She found this and more in a one-bedroom apartment at M/25 by Match in Mount Lawley.
M/25 by Match is located on the corner of Walcott and Burt Streets in Mount Lawley. It is a boutique mixed-use apartment building with only 30 residences, designed to integrate seamlessly into the culture of its Mount Lawley environment.
It is this culture that had been a major drawcard for Debbie when considering her purchase.
“Everything is close by and the area makes me feel like I’m travelling round the UK, with little streets, old houses, history, culture and community,” she said.
“A typical weekend generally includes heading out somewhere close for a nice walk, and meeting a friend for breakfast or coffee. My gym is two-seconds away and Fresh Provisions stays open until 10pm at night.
“The biggest thing for me is that I can do whatever I want, whenever I want to – even when I work long hours, I feel safe.”
As a single woman, Debbie wanted to live independently but didn’t want to worry about people jumping fences.
Mr Lloyd Clark, Managing Director of Match parent company M/Group, said safety is often one of the most important factors for people looking to tap into the apartment lifestyle.
“The global shift in people choosing apartment living over a half acre block on the outskirts of town is well documented. However, their motivations can vary,” he said.
“Safety is definitely extremely important, particularly for families and young single people like Debbie. However, others are enticed by the low maintenance aspects, lock up and leave qualities and surrounding amenity.”
Match has been instrumental in leading a philosophical change in Perth that has evolved apartment architecture from bland ‘cookie cutter’ environments to well-considered designs that integrate into the surroundings and enhance the occupant’s lifestyle.
M/25 by Match was architecturally designed by award-winning architect Cameron Chisholm Nicol and features a distinctive mural artwork by renowned artist, Kyle Hughes-Odgers.
“I love that (M/25 by Match) doesn’t feel like the apartment has been done on the cheap. I have high ceilings, skylight, splash back. I think a lot of apartments can feel closed-in and I like that this is so open and bright and airy,” Debbie continued.
“When I sit out on the balcony I can see the skyline and fireworks when they’re on. And because I purchased when the building was complete, it was mine quite quickly.
“It’s great that I could go into a place that felt nice and I could afford it.”
‘Move-in-ready’ apartments at M/25 by Match start from $349,000 for one-bedroom apartments and $465,000 for two-bedroom apartments.
For more information visit www.m25apartments.com or contact 0432 660 066.
Quest Apartment-Hotel | Construction Completed November 2019
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M Group
Quest Apartment-Hotel | Construction Completed November 2019
Construction completion has been achieved at the Quest Apartment-Hotel located in the heart of Joondalup on Boas Avenue.
The Apartment Hotel consists of 90 rooms across 5 levels plus commercial / cafe space on the ground floor.
Ocean Views Offered Atop Land Release Success
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M Group
Ocean Views Offered Atop Land Release Success
Land developer Monument has announced the official release of its highly anticipated Stage Two. It follows the rapid sale of 70% of titled homesites in Stage One, which were quickly secured in just six-months from launch.
Atop is a boutique land estate located on an elevated site within the established suburb of Beeliar. It is walking distance to Beeliar Village with supermarkets, specialty services, restaurants and cafes, as well as close to the local primary and high schools.
Stage Two comprises of just 22 homesites with the majority offering ocean-view potential. The release was brought forward on the back of high demand and a waitlist that has already resulted in a number of sales.
Mr John Wroth, Director of Monument parent company M/Group, says the development’s emerging design and character has created a real sense of place and those visiting Atop will now be able to see the difference in the company’s approach.
“So much has been considered in the design of Atop, including the varied elevations of each lot, views towards the Indian Ocean, the use of recycled logs and natural stone materials, and the strategic retention of majestic Tuart Trees at the site’s highest point. It truly is a beautiful and character-filled environment,” he said.
“With landscaping now in place and new residential homes under construction, the evolving environment and entry statement is striking. It’s rare to have the opportunity to introduce this level of design innovation in the thick of Perth’s metropolitan environment.
“The completion of Stage One has given visitors to the site a taste of things to come and we want to encourage as many people as possible to consider the opportunity.”
Atop stretches across 11.8 hectares and includes 171 homesites with varying lot sizes from 217sqm to 630sqm. There is a mix of ocean and parkland view options with natural land undulation that provides character in lot levels.
“Monument wants to move away from the ‘cookie-cutter’ land estate environment and instead respect the surroundings of each site. We have drawn on a lot of natural qualities within the estate and, as we continue to develop the property, we believe this detail will engender a distinct and attractive market proposition and great lifestyle environment,” Mr Wroth continued.
Built on an historic limestone quarry, the area also pays homage to the past with an array of natural limestone and off-form concrete feature walls throughout the estate. It also includes nature play areas for ‘discovery play’ and meandering walking trails and nesting hollows set aside for the area’s wildlife.
Construction of Stage Two is already underway with titles scheduled for early next year.
Stage One & Two land prices at Atop range between $225,000 and $389,000, Monument are also offering a $20,000 early bird special off the price meaning prices start from just $205,000 with the reduction.
For more information visit www.atopbeeliar.com.au or contact Damyn Strang 0434 070 654.
Atop Beeliar | Bulk Earthwork | October 2019
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M Group