01-08-2008

August '08 Issue

1. News
2. 2008
3. August

Property is dropping in value and some investors are finding themselves in a tight spot. But every downturn has a sliver lining and our August issue is packed full of advice on how to Master this market.

Evidence from Hamilton, where we did an in-depth study this month, shows buyers believe the bargains have arrived. But those in trouble right now should best heed the advice of experts instead of putting their heads in the sand.

Beware, however, downturns never last for the length of time predicted by economists and other experts. They have a life of their own.

If you need cheering up at all, the profile of Tirau investor Henry Clothier is a right cracking read. The man has more or less single-handedly turned around the fortunes of the State Highway One town in the Waikato and made many townsfolk wealthy on the back of his passion for commercial property.

Michael Yardney’s column this month looks at four clever ways of using leverage that can help you become a better property investor.

Our new series this month, A day in the life, takes an in-depth look at the roles of professionals who make up property investors’ teams. First up, we find out what your property manager really gets up to.

We have a feature on the psychological traps of investing and look at why investors can sometimes make irrational decisions because of their past experiences. Take our advice and don’t let it happen to you.

Successful investors know clever tricks with mortgages. Our beginners’ feature looks at advanced finance strategies for investors.

Also in the August 2008 issue:

• News: Merlot outlook bleak; Railway Campus investors derailed; New associated persons’ rules aimed at property investors; Warranties for leaky homes era; good news but rates still uncertain
• Opinion: Find out what The Landlord has to say on topical issues
• Diary: What’s on for property investors this month? Find out about all the best events
• Housing commentary: The housing market has found a floor – in the cellar. But has it bottomed?
• Ask an expert: We answer your burning property investment questions. Find out how to enforce payment from your tenants and how to avoid being stung for tax on your capital gains
• Feature: Renovation – If you want to create cash flow, look for easy ways to renovate

Columns:

• Accounting: Find out about the unique tax issues related with fixed life intangible property, also known as FLIPs
• Mortgage: Legal ways to get money out of the bank in tough times
• Economics: Sections of the property market are escaping the downturn woes
• Valuations: The current market is a valuer’s nightmare. Have we reached the bottom?
• Tenancy Management: How the much maligned Residential Tenancies Act amendments could affect your investing
• Tenancy Tribunal: Does landlords’ buildings insurance cover negligent tenants that cause fires?

Regulars:

• Regional review: Manawatu – Will agriculture and education pull this region through the property downturn?
• NZPIF: News and events from around the regions
• Toolbox: Tax is a monster at the best of tomes. Find out how the IRD’s website can benefit you
• Mortgage commentary: Many investors are desparate for rate cuts. We report on when they’re expected to drop
• Property books: Ignore the property cycle at your peril. We look at Ed Ross’ new book Forecasting for Real Estate Wealth, Strategies for Outperforming Any Housing Market.

And much more!