Understanding the New Downsizer Contribution Rules in 2024

How We Help with Property Investment

1. Developing a Property Investment Strategy

Successful property investment starts with a solid strategy. At James Hayes Financial Planning, we take the time to understand your financial goals and tailor a property investment plan to suit your needs. Our advice covers:

Setting Your Investment Goals – Whether you’re aiming for capital growth, rental income, or a combination of both, we help you define clear, achievable goals for your property investment.
Risk Assessment – We assess your financial situation and risk tolerance to ensure property investment fits into your broader financial plan.
Investment Time Horizon – Property is generally a long-term investment. We’ll help you determine how property fits within your timeline for wealth building or retirement planning.

2. Property Selection and Market Research

Choosing the right property is crucial to the success of your investment. We assist

you by providing insights into:

Location Analysis – We help you identify locations with strong potential for capital growth and rental demand. Factors such as proximity to schools, transport, amenities, and employment hubs are key considerations.
Property Type – We provide advice on the types of property that suit your investment goals, whether it’s residential, commercial, or units versus houses.
Market Timing – We help you assess market conditions to determine the best time to buy, taking into account market cycles, interest rates, and broader economic trends.

3. Cash Flow and Loan Structuring

Managing cash flow is critical for property investors, as your rental income needs to

cover your expenses. We offer guidance on:

Budgeting and Cash Flow Management – We help you calculate the costs of property ownership, including mortgage repayments, property management fees, maintenance, and insurance.
Loan Structuring – Choosing the right loan structure is essential to maximising the tax benefits of property investment and managing cash flow effectively. We provide advice on interest-only versus principal-and-interest loans, as well as offset accounts and redraw facilities.
Negative Gearing and Positive Gearing – We explain the implications of both investment strategies and help you choose which is more suitable for your financial situation.

4. Understanding Tax and Legal Obligations

Property investors can benefit from a range of tax incentives, but it’s important to understand your obligations and make sure you’re compliant. We provide advice on:

Tax Deductions – We help you understand the tax deductions available to property investors, including depreciation, interest on loans, and property maintenance costs.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT) – If you sell your investment property, you may be liable for CGT. We provide guidance on minimising this tax where possible and managing the tax implications of property sales.
Legal Considerations – From contracts of sale to understanding your responsibilities as a landlord, we provide clarity on the legal aspects of property investment.

5. Ongoing Portfolio Management

Building a successful property portfolio requires ongoing management. We offer support to help you manage and grow your property investments, including:

Portfolio Diversification – We advise on strategies for diversifying your property portfolio to reduce risk and maximise returns. This may include investing in different locations or property types.
Property Performance Reviews – Regularly reviewing your property’s performance ensures that it continues to meet your financial objectives. We monitor rental yields, capital growth, and market conditions to help you make informed decisions.
Exit Strategies – Whether you plan to sell a property or hold it long-term, we help you develop an exit strategy that aligns with your financial goals.