Property Investing Checklist

Investment in real property, such as residential real estate, is likely to be a lengthy process and one that usually involves a plan for the long term. To ensure you have considered what is required before making the big purchase, we’ve outlined steps you need to take in that process.

1. Make the Commitment

Property investment is a long-term strategy — generally 7–10 years or more — so the first step is to “do the numbers.” Assess your budget, income stability, family obligations, and risk appetite.

An MFAA broker advises:

“With interest rates higher than they’ve been in years, you need to be confident you can service the loan even if conditions change. Run different scenarios, and think ahead about your capacity to maintain repayments and cover unexpected costs.”

Remember: property investment isn’t just about purchase price. Factor in:

  • Ongoing loan repayments

  • Land tax, council rates, and insurance

  • Repairs, maintenance, and potential renovations

  • Property management fees (if you’re outsourcing)

Commitment also means managing the investment actively — whether that’s hands-on or through professionals.

2. Obtain Professional Advice

Property is a significant financial decision. Before diving in, seek advice from:

  • Financial planner – to align investment with long-term goals.

  • Mortgage broker (MFAA-accredited) – to navigate lending rules and secure competitive finance. Since 2023, APRA’s 3% serviceability buffer remains in place, meaning you need to show you can afford repayments even if rates rise further.

  • Accountant – to understand tax implications, including negative gearing, capital gains tax, and possible deductions.

  • Solicitor/conveyancer – for contracts and due diligence.

  • Property manager – to ensure rental returns are maximised with minimal stress.

Buyers’ agents can also help identify suitable properties and avoid costly mistakes.

3. Learn From Others

Talk to friends, relatives, or colleagues who’ve invested in property. First-hand stories about pitfalls (like cash-flow shortfalls, unexpected strata levies, or vacancy periods) can help you avoid repeating them.

Online communities and investor forums can also provide insights, but remember that every financial situation is unique — always cross-check advice with licensed professionals.

4. Collate Your Information

Lenders are now stricter than ever. To apply for finance, you’ll need:

  • Proof of income and employment (payslips, tax returns, BAS statements if self-employed)

  • Asset and liability details

  • Rental payment history (if a tenant)

  • Records of debts, loans, credit cards, or buy-now-pay-later accounts

Tips for 2025:

  • Minimise existing debt before applying.

  • Cancel unused credit cards or reduce their limits (they reduce borrowing capacity).

  • Obtain formal pre-approval before making offers — this gives clarity on your buying power in a competitive market.

5. Keep Perspective – It’s a Business Decision

While property can be emotional, investment decisions should remain rational:

  • Don’t overpay because you “fell in love” with a house.

  • Think like a tenant – will the property appeal to renters in that area?

  • Think like a future buyer – could it attract owner-occupiers down the track?

Simple things like outdated paint or untidy gardens can be fixed. Focus instead on fundamentals: location, transport links, rental demand, and future growth potential.

6. Stay Informed

Property markets shift quickly. Monitor:

  • Interest rate changes (RBA cash rate decisions directly impact repayments).

  • Rental market trends (vacancy rates and rental yields vary suburb by suburb).

  • Government incentives (like first-home buyer schemes or tax changes).

  • Infrastructure projects (new schools, transport, or commercial hubs can boost long-term growth).

Property investment can be a powerful wealth-building tool — but it requires planning, patience, and professional support. At Skybridge Capital, an MFAA-accredited finance broker with expertise in residential and commercial finance, we’re committed to the highest industry standards.

We’ll help you navigate lending requirements, structure your finance, and make informed decisions with minimal stress.

Contact us today to discuss your investment goals.

Cristiane RubinComment