#Building a #support #squad

Nobody is an expert at every endeavour. It makes sense to focus your time on what you excel at, while bringing in professionals to help with other tasks and commitments. Most of us don’t bat an eyelid outsourcing to personal trainers, cleaners or even dog walkers – so why wouldn’t you bring in a professional to help when outlaying significant amounts of money to invest in property?

We are accustomed to thinking that if we want to get wealthy we need to look after the pennies, as the pennies will then look after the pounds. But times have changed. Current thinking is that: 

a) You need to spend money to make money; and

b) You’re better off paying experts who are specialists in their area(s) as opposed to trying to be a jack of all trades but a master of none.

Building your property portfolio is a serious business that involves large amounts of money. To achieve the best results in the long term, you’d be wise to invest in at least three experts. Here’s who they are and where to find them: 

EXPERT #1: THE ACCOUNTANT WITH PROPERTY EXPERTISE

The average accountant can do your bookkeeping and save you some money by adding in your expenses. However, not all accountants will understand what’s really involved with property investing. 

I’ve spoken at about 20 accounting conferences and have discovered that the average accountant still thinks paying off your home loan is the best thing to do. The broader-thinking ones know that using the principal part of your repayment to fund a second property purchase will make you much more money than you would otherwise save in tax. 

Make sure that the accountant you use for your property investments is experienced in residential property. 

EXPERT # 2: THE PROPERTY VALUER 

A property valuer cannot only tell you what your house is worth today, they can tell you what it’ll likely be worth next year, in five years, with a new kitchen, a paint job, or a second-storey addition. Why spend $50,000 on a new kitchen and bathroom if doing so will only add $30,000 to the value of your home? A valuer can give you this kind of valuable advice.

The irony in buying property is that most people love the house they’ll live in – and often pay too much for it – but make poor choices when finding an investment property. Many people will buy an investment that seems cheap compared to a similar property in their home suburb – and they might even buy interstate or out of the area they know in order to secure it.

Hiring a valuer every time you purchase a property will give you peace of mind that you’re making a sound investment.

EXPERT #3: THE BUYERS’ AGENT

Buyers’ agents are a relatively new phenomenon that few people are aware of, but they are also one of the best assets you can have on board. A buyers’ agent can do the legwork for you when you’re looking for an investment property. Why pound the pavement every weekend scoping out 100+ properties when a buyers’ agent with specialist knowledge in the local market can do this on your behalf?  

Buyers’ agents have strong relationships with real estate agents, and have many sales comparisons to back-up their auction bids. They often buy properties before they go to market and negotiate from a stronger ground. 

Most ‘mum and dad buyers’ get bored after a few open homes and end up buying anything at any price. Buyers’ agents are out there each week, no matter what happens, and anyone serious about growth needs to consider investing in one.

HOW TO SOURCE YOUR TEAM

Not all professionals will be able to help you implement your wealth creation plan, so it’s vital to pick the right ones.

I always try to find professionals who are active property investors too. If they are investing personally, they will have done their research and know the pros and cons of each and every option. 

Try asking other property investors which professionals they use, then network the contacts you already have. Your accountant will often know a few brokers who will know a few valuers, and so the network of good professionals continues.

I am always on the lookout for more professionals that I can use, and I often don’t ask how much they charge. I concentrate on getting the best advice possible and know that every dollar I spend will either reduce my risk or increase my profits.

Source: Chris Gray, Empire CEO   

#Capital city #home values edge higher over August

Dwelling values across #Australia’s combined capital cities recorded a 0.5 per cent increase in August 2013 according to RP Data-Rismark’s Home Value Index, taking the cumulative gain in home values to 7.0 per cent since the market bottomed out in May last year.

The August result was a slowdown from previous months in which capital gains had been recorded at much higher rates. Nevertheless, the August result took the rolling three-month change in capital city dwelling values to 4.0 per cent – the highest rate of capital gain since the three months ending April 2010. 

According to RP Data research director, Tim Lawless, the slower month-on-month result was a welcome sign after the strong growth conditions of previous months had fuelled renewed debates around the sustainability of Australian dwelling values. 

“The half a per cent gain over the month of August is a much more sustainable rate of growth and will 

be a welcome turn of events for policy makers,” Mr Lawless said.

“While the recent surge in dwelling values has caused some renewed debate about an Australian housing bubble, it is important to remember that the average annual capital gain over the past decade has been just 4.3 per cent across the combined capital cities. 

“In Sydney the annual rate of growth has seen a much lower decline of 2.4 per cent which is well below current inflation.” 

RP Data noted that softer housing market conditions over August could be attributed to a lower rate of growth across the Sydney and #Melbourne housing markets, where dwelling values rose by 0.6 per cent and 0.2 per cent respectively. Several cities recorded a fall in values over the month, with Hobart posting a 1.2 per cent decline, and Perth values slipping by 0.2 per cent. 

Mr Lawless said the most significant turnaround in market conditions had occurred in Brisbane, where the monthly rate of growth jumped to 1.5 per cent.

“Brisbane’s housing market has been underperforming since the onset of the #GFC with home values still almost 10 per cent lower than their previous peak which was back in November 2009,” he explained.

“The strong result for August was evident across both the detached housing and the unit markets and may potentially mark a positive turning point for #Brisbane’s housing market.”

Looking at the performance across the broad-pricing segments of the market, the RP Data-Rismark Stratified Hedonic Index continued to show the broad-middle segment as the best performing, although the rate of capital gain had gathered some momentum at the more prestigious end of the market. 

The broad mid-priced market recorded a capital gain of 5.2 per cent since the start of the year, while the most expensive quartile had seen values increase by a less substantial 4.9 per cent. The most affordable quartile recorded the lowest rate of growth at 4.4 per cent. 

Mr Lawless went on to predict strong housing market conditions for this year’s spring season. 

“Housing market conditions are looking set to provide what could be described as a near-to perfect spring season with the number of homes currently available for sale around 15 per cent lower than a year ago,” he said.

“In #Sydney, listing numbers are about 28 per cent lower than a year ago. The lower effective supply levels are a result of fewer new listings being added to the market and a higher rate of absorption, with a 30 per cent increase in sales activity compared with a year ago. 

“We are already seeing a substantial increase in #real #estate agent activity across the RP Data platforms which indicate a surge in pre-listings activity,” Mr Lawless concluded. 

Source: RPData

#Media #WrapUp #Cautious #environment #property

The #news all over the net is describing a cautious environment. Sellers are cautious to put their properties on the market but why? This month we learn more about the nature of change and how caution with all its good intention has a lot to learn about the the truth behind the headlines.

Record Low interest rate - will continue to support a very generous environment for buyers looking to enter the market. While 40% of buyers remained investors looking to grow their portfolio, there is a lot of talk of speculating with investors looking to grow #SMSF. The lack of support from the government and government grants for first #home #buyers have deterred many entering the market for the first time. The follow article below suggest while the interest rate is record low, banks and buyers alike should remain caution. This would ensure the pace of growth is tempered and sustainable.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/economics/rba-urges-borrowers-to-be-prudent-amid-record-low-rate-environment/story-e6frg926-1226726855272

Reserve Bank warns against self-managed super funds investing in Australia's #property #market

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-25/rba-stability-report/4979900

#Retail continues correction and profit continues to adjust to a newer more frugal shopping mentality. The more they save, the money they will pay off on their mortgage. This means the economy will remain strong and defaulting rates will remain low.  This paints a very stable economic environment for property and the #real #estate industry.

http://www.news.com.au/business/companies/david-jones-profit-down-six-per-cent/story-fnda1bsz-1226726738925

End of a boom or the beginning of an growth era?

For all the fear of mining boom being over, China will continue to grow. As #China migrate from export led growth of industrial revolution to a more consumer led growth in their economy, Australia is in a perfect position to leverage on this opportunity through transitory focus towards a more agriculture led growth.

Australia has immense strength and know-how in agriculture business and by partnering with China, Australia can capitalise on its country brand for being "healthy and wholesome" and fuel the demand for fresh and wholesome produce craved by the expanding Chinese middle class.

http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-09-25/chinese-consul-general-tells-australians-to-look-to-agriculture/4979714?section=business

The mining boom is tapering but another form of growth Australia continues to experience is the growth in population. This is particularly true of the urban growth through migration. More and more urbanites are working and earning more in urban centres such as Sydney and Melbourne. #Properties in these two major city centres are yielding higher rental growth because of the explosion in urban centre migration. The prices for properties both #commercial and #residential has been experience positive and steady growth for the last decade.

http://www.theland.com.au/news/agriculture/general/news/regions-to-miss-growth-spurt/2671135.aspx

Decade of Decentralisation - is a government initiative that foster growth of regional economy through regional planning and turning regional areas into productive thriving economic centres. This is made possible with creating government administrative processing centres. Aside from agriculture, cultivating a growing government sector would appeal to younger workers to migrate away from overcrowded urban centres to regional areas.  This would also provide options of careers in various sector of administration, away from agricultural economy.

http://engage.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/decentralisation

With all these different factors the Australian economy is underpinned with many strong foundations and growth opportunities. This makes a perfect selling environment for those interested to take their properties to market.

-END-

#Take #Five : Learn About #The #Larder - #Epicerie #Fine #Dulwich #Hill.

1 - When did you discover first discover your passion for #fine #food?

I believe it was the first time my mother fed me. Since then I have to discover, try and taste. It is exaggerated but my mother was an exceptional cook, for pleasure only, and when you touch quality you can’t go back.

2 - How did you come to operate and own The Larder? Have you always been in food industry?

Circumstances!  All my professional life I have been an #Electrical #Engineer in the Printing Industry around the world. I did love it, but when you get older, travelling is not always your first priority anymore. The world is changing so quickly, I wanted to do something I love and have some fun as well. So, we saw how quickly Dulwich Hill was changing, how #Dulwich #Hill was buzzing every week end, and then the shop was empty and for rent and, and, here I am now without regret whatsoever. 

The Larder - Dulwich Hill Facade.

3 - What do locals look for when they come to The Larder? What is your speciality?

Definitely #Cheeses!  I take great pride to have ripe cheeses, meaning at their peak  to eat, to have their full flavours and nose. But also I do not expect my clients to buy what they don’t like or do not know thus before buying, everyone can taste and then buy what suits them. 

Soumaintrain Cheese from Burgundy
- The Larder, Dulwich Hill

4 - For our readers who are visiting The Larder for the first time, which products do you highly recommend for a new client?

For cheeses, I ask them what they like, which cheeses they want to taste. For Groceries, I have fantastic products, and I am lucky enough that I can taste them before hand, so if a client hesitates I can help them to choose the best one for them.

5 - Where does this product come from? 

Cheeses are mainly #French, but also #Spanish, #Italian, #English even #American. 

On the Grocery side, I try to have as much  local produce  as possible. You have fantastic Aussie products and it is my job & fun to bring them along my clients to discover them.

6 - How does the quality of this product differ to other similar food product on the market?

You go to a lot of places selling cheeses, and you see pieces of cheeses in middle of the fridge, with name, weight and price. You like it, good luck, you don’t bad luck. Most of shops sell cheeses like they could sell lollies, shoes or peanuts. What you need to understand that some similar products can be bought in the supermarket but they are not the same quality. For example if you buy a #Camembert in the supermarket, then buy one from me- you will taste an enormous difference and I promise you that. I deal with quality #producers who are not interested in selling huge amounts but have an emphasis on quality and taste.

At The Larder, you choose, you taste and we cut at your request. I can tell you where the cheeses are from, their pasture, whether they are a #summer or #winter #milk. I know the story behind the product and that is very important. 

Dominique Durand -
Owner of The Larder, Dulwich Hill

7- What is your favourite dish?

That will be definitely “#Coq #au #Vin”. But there are a few things you must know. 

• Rooster is not chicken, so don’t mix up!
• Don’t forget herbs like thyme, sage and good seasoning.
• Once it is done, remove the meat. Slow down the heat and add a cup of blood, not necessarily from the #Rooster it can be #Beef but not #Pork, and your sauce will turn dark and thick. Beautiful. 
• You can serve with pan fried #potatoes, rice or beautiful creamy mash potatoes. #Bon #Appetit!

8 – How often do new produce and products arrive?

For the cheeses, I order them every week and I am pleased to say that I order more and more.

For #Groceries, it depends on demand. I try to have at least 1 new product every 2 to 3 months. New products can replace an existing one or to be add to the existing one.

9 – What are the highlights of trading in Marrickville Rd, Dulwich Hill?

Dulwich Hill has become vibrant and cosmopolitan, with a lot of new young families around. We do have a lot of very nice shops in Dulwich Hill now, with GleeBooks , Medina Interiors, the beautiful handcrafted Moroccan wares or #StrawberryFields our crazy #French #Pastry Chef Simon and I am sure much more to come. 

The Larder - Dulwich Hill inside view.

10 – Any specials or product highlights/special offers this month you wish to share with our readers?

Look, we do have a big event when we follow the “#Tour #de #France” with our cheeses every July. We had a promotion event with one of the best Affineur – Maturer- of cheeses in France –Herve MONS- in September and now we are preparing Christmas and I can tell you that people will be nicely surprised when they will see all goodies on display. 

Of course we do have our popular “Bargain basket” full of goodies.

To find Dominique Durand and
The Larder – Epicerie fine

Visit: 
489 Marrickville Road

Dulwich Hill NSW 2203

Tel: 02 9572 9797

E: info@thelarder489.com.au

www.thelarder489.com.au

Love The Larder on Facebook, and if you don’t, just like them: www.facebook.com/The-Larder-Epicerie-fine

Photos sourced from http://thelocaliststyleforum.blogspot.com.au/

Media Wrap Up - Properties and High Profile Divorces.

Every week the #media brings us so much more than just bad news. It also rings true what some of us have always believed, reality is far more interesting than fiction. No wonder the genre of reality tv show is so embedded in our tv culture. This dominant tv genre has kept the masses twittering away on last night’s episode of Big Brother and the endless barrage of criticism for the lack of talents on talent shows.

What has all this got to do with a #property blog? #Property, some believe to be material. However this month’s media landscape has brought us some telling signs that properties play a big part in emotional negotiations. However you see it, it has caused a lot of heartache, an emotional response following some seriously gut wrenching #divorce #settlement. This week’s media survey has brought us many high profile divorces and speculations of break ups. High #profile #property sell offs follow #divorces like bees to honey and flies to litter.

If you are not sure what I am talking about, a quick recap is rendered below :

1)#Entertainment (casino) mogul James Packer divorced Erica Baxter and gives her Vaucluse #house estimated to worth $50 million.

http://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/private-sydney/revealed-the-secret-deal-packers-made-to-go-separate-ways-20130910-2tia1.html

2)Robin Williams has been forced to sell his house and return to television to cover debts.

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/robin-williams-has-been-forced-to-sell-his-house-and-return-to-television-to-cover-debts/story-e6frfmq9-1226720269815#ixzz2fOjNWfod

3)Liz Hurley and Shane Warne's 'property problem'

http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/celebrity/liz-hurley-and-shane-warne8217s-8216property-problem8217/story-fn907478-1226723105922

"Shurley's" house in UK.

Australian Century 21 #Property #Report - Sky News Breakdown

News in general has been very positive.

Show Breakdown - 17th September 2013
National #Auction #Clearance #Rates has been steadily rising but the standout remains with Sydney.

Average 74.9% National Clearance Rate

85.1% Sydney Clearance Rate

74.4% Melbourne Clearance Rate

76.1% Adelaide (Last four/five weeks it has been performing well) .

Note of some concerns, some suburbs are booming, could potentially have a bubble. 

Its dangerous to see some buyers paying a lot over the reserved price. 

Finally +1.16% homes advertised for sale has picked up. A good sign of more to come.

New Zealand Market - good market to watch since 1st july to today,

NZ market has had ( -3.7% listings)

29% increase

8.3% market price higher than 2007.

Auckland and Canterbury district that is driving this growth.

#Rent #Price #Movement 

12.41 % Sydney

7.33% Melbourne

17.8 % Perth

overall 12.54% since january last year

#Residential #Vacancy #Rate

3.32% Sydney

2.37% Melbourne

3.99% Perth

overall average 3.23% across country

Must keep an eye on perth as its been high, around 4%.

Volume

Seems to be a level of excitement in the market. It will be about volume.

30% sales volume increase this time last year, lets gets some listings on the books then it will balance it out a bit more.

-END-

#TheWrap - #PropertyNews - #Vendor ’s Notes

When you are looking to sell, its important to be aware of the key indicators that make a fantastic time to sell. So when is the ideal time to sell and list ? This week the property media has been hotter than spicy mexican enchilada!

1)We learnt that listing and auctioning before or during election day has not stopped record breaking numbers of buyers attending and bidding at auctions. When the sydney market is hot its hot!

http://smh.domain.com.au/real-estate-news/hotter-than-hot-on-election-day-20130909-2tf5n.html

2)To capitalize on the opportunity of a feverous market, shorter campaigns have been thought to turn over faster. With a fantastic response from the bidders and contract holders, shorter lead time enable you to convert the passionate bidders into committed buyers. List Now To Cash In Now!

http://smh.domain.com.au/blogs/talking-property/speed-marketing-auction-time-to-shrink-20130827-2smp5.html

3)Further #Interestrates downgrading is tip to follow in the last quarter of 2013/early 2014, This will result is a voracious appetite of buyers queuing to take advantage of this cheaper mortgage environment. The laws of demand and supply would mean the advantages are tips in the vendor’s favour as more buyers are on the market looking to buy. This would translate to higher bids on your property.

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/economics/interest-rates-tipped-to-fall-but-not-yet/story-e6frg926-1226709346837

1. Intelligent buyers and families are looking for value. They have stable jobs and wages continues to rise. They are opting to spend less on clothes and discretionary items, while choosing to upgrade due to the growth in their family size. Home buyers would see this as an opportunity because, while clients are not spending big bucks at department stores, they are saving for a bigger and newer homes. The high auction clearance has supported this view.

http://www.smh.com.au/business/myer-chief-sees-gloomy-year-ahead-20130912-2tnjo.html

5)While the mining boom has been declared to have come to an end, Australia’s stable economic history would ensure Australia’s steady transition to a more design and IP (Intellectual Property) driven society. Intellectual property (whether design, technological or research based) business will present immense opportunities for core business growth, leading Australia into the next century. Australia’s strong prominence on the world ranking for university education would hold Australia in good stead in the training, education and research base business. Our stable currency, albeit a little high, would also attract a continual on flow of tertiary education business. 

http://www.theguardian.com/news/datablog/2013/mar/05/world-top-100-universities-reputation-rankings-times-higher-education

Sass & Bide New York Fashion Week 2013
- Australian Design Export Business

6)One lucrative business that is enjoying tremendous amount of growth is the healthcare industry. Boosted by the Australian government’s strong investment in healthcare, this very necessary industry has grown through the 1990s tech wreck and more recently the #GFC. This much needed industry provides an incredible infrastructure to the #economy of Australia and citizens it hires.

http://www.crikey.com.au/2013/04/23/the-rise-and-rise-of-health-spending-but-dont-blame-the-old-people/?wpmp_switcher=mobile

With so many promising industries helping #Australia move into the next century of economic development, one can understand why we are in the golden age of property boom. #Vendors are in perfect place to take advantage of so many reasons why its a great time to sell. Similarly, buyers and home owners are more convinced than ever that interest rates have come to a very reasonable level, if you do not get in and start shopping for a #property and bidding now, you might just miss the boat on on a fantastic buying and selling environment. 

-END-

Take Five Minutes to Learn More About #Strawberry #Fields And The Wonderful World Of #Pastries.

The pastry business is a cut throat business, can you shed some light on the point of differences Strawberry Fields Patisserie offers its clients? 

Strawberry Fields Patisserie offers customers fresh, local ingredients and restaurant style quality desserts, cakes, pastries and boutique breads. Opening in Dulwich Hill with many other well established patisseries in the immediate area was a challenge at first but once our customers realised we offered a point of difference from other patisseries, they were pleasantly surprised that they could get contemporary cakes with a French flavour.  We knew that having good coffee and lovely fresh food is always a winning combination that proves to make any business successful.  The key is to ensure that all ingredients and the finished product is second to none.  Our recipes are Simons own recipes devised over the last 14 years that he has spent in the hospitality industry.  His creations are distinctly his own, beautiful to look at and even better to the taste buds. 

Duo #Chocolate #Mousse

We are excited to learn that Simon has had some terrific experience at many well known restaurant, Can you elaborate on Simon's experiences and what we can expect from him for 2014? 

Simon started in the hospitality industry as a kitchen hand and worked his way up in the industry in various shops, bakeries and patisseries. He finished his apprenticeship at Glass Brassiere in the Hilton Hotel in Sydney. He has always wanted to have his own patisserie and he loves Dulwich Hill, so when the shop became available, he took it straight away.  For 2014, we can look forward to an ever changing menu, including our own truffles and the introduction of our own biscuit range.

#Honey and #Pistachios #Bavarois

Strawberry Fields Patisserie has won many awards, can you tell us your recipe for success? 
This year we entered the Fine Food Show Awards and even though we had only been open a year, we were very lucky to win 7 medals - 3 silver and 4 bronze.  The fine food show is a prestigious show and it is hard to win a medal, regardless of its colour.  There is no recipe for success as such except 2 things - believe in yourself and your team and hard work.  Simon was lucky to be trained by old European bakers and pastry chefs - the traditional methods of baking and making pastries which have proven to be the most successful. 

Strawberry Fields won the Marrickville Business Awards for the best new business in Dulwich Hill for 2013.

If its my first time at Strawberry Fields Patisserie, how should I order? What are some of the must try food items you'd recommend for me? 

For your first time at Strawberry Fields, start with a John Scroll - a warm bacon and caramelised onion, salami and feta scroll with an egg poached in the centre.  We use 5 Senses coffee and have the choice 
between a house blend and a single origin.  Our large coffees are served in a French bowl.  After breakfast, I would have either our signature tart - Strawberry Fields Forever consisting of our vanilla bean custard with fresh strawberries on top or the Jaffa Mousse which is a sponge 
soaked in Grand Marniner with a chocolate mousse coating.

#Raspberry and #Blackcurrant #Mousse

How often do you change the menus? Do you work with seasonal ingredients to create original products ? 

We change the menu 4 times a year, basically we only cook seasonally. This ensures better fresh ingredients and a better end product. 

Any exciting events coming up that we should know about? 

Our Birthday celebrations are always a cracker - Held in February, we 
always go all out by hiring a band, giving away balloons to the kids and 
giving away free chocolate cake all day.  Its a great event which 
promotes community spirit.

To Find out more about Strawberry Fields Patisserie and where to try these delectable goodies:http://www.strawberryfieldspatisserie.com.au/the-patisserie.htm

#Chai #Tea #Bavarois

The Wrap on #Property #Observer:

Despite the fact that Australia has been preoccupied with the change in government, property news and its prominence has not been too far from the Australian voters' mind. Diane Leow has informed us that forecast has already been issued for one of the big four banks for a further rate reduction end of 2013.

ANZ forecasts the rate to be cut further by 25 basis points to 2.25% in the last quarter of this year, and expects the rate to hold steady for 2014.” Diane Leow Wednesday 11 September 2013 , Property Observer.

So what does it tell us? If you are a business owner, happy days are coming! Why, because finally the Australian people got what they wanted: A change. Whether a good change or bad, its still a change nevertheless. Any change is as good as holiday some day. So small business all hopes to this change would start to encourage further consumer spending. 

http://www.smh.com.au/business/coalition-rhetoric-a-real-confidence-builder-20130911-2tiv0.html

If you are a vendor and you are hanging on, its time to dive in and capitalize on the opportunity and reap your rewards. 

The auction clearance rate has been hovering in the 70s across many states of Australia in the last month. If you are not looking to list or sell then start talking to your local agents.

Get your property appraised, find out more about what is possible. 

When interest rates drop, predictions are never too far away for when the interest rate will rise. and right now It looks set to rise in 2015. 

Buyers are hungry and they are out now looking for you, looking to buy. 

Even if you agree that the interest rates have some impact only on house prices as per Jonathan Chancellor’s article in Property Observer, statistics are showing incredible appetite for stock and they are moving fast.

“Its the wise conclusion that while interest rates have some impact on house prices, both are responding to and participating in the overall economic cycle,” Jonathan Chancellor Tuesday 03 september 2013- Property Observer

What are you waiting for?

Century 21 Synergy - Dulwich Hill

Tel:02 8507 8070

E:info@c21synergy.com.au

-END-

How to shop for the #Family #home #Designer #styles without the chi chi pricing.

Whether you are looking for a statement piece furniture to complete the look or you are looking to refurbish your current home. Do not make any decision until you had a good look through our list of must visit sites.

For high quality designer furnitures and home wares at up to 70% off Retail prices check out the following sites. Something to consider before purchasing: Delivery can sometimes take up to 8 weeks or more.

www.thehome.com.au

www.templewebster.com.au

http://www.graysonline.com/

www.ozsale.com.au

http://www.oo.com.au/

Photo courtesy of www.thehome.com.au

You love your brands and you love great value prices.Visit the following to find something that will be with your family for years to come at;

http://www.milandirect.com.au/

www.zanui.com.au

http://maxsparrow.com/

http://interiorsonline.com.au/

http://www.wayfair.com.au

For those of you that are design savvy but do not need the designer prices, the home of designer replica furniture and home wares are most suitable for you. Matt Blatt and Glicks brings you a large collection of designer replica furniture at a price that is you can afford.

http://www.mattblatt.com.au 

http://www.glicksfurniture.com.au/

http://www.replicafurniture.com.au/

http://www.lifeinteriors.com.au/  (All Century 21 Synergy office furniture are bought at lifeinteriors)

http://www.homeq.com.au/

Brings you a large collection of brands with designer styles and a reasonable prices.

http://www.daisostore.com.au/

Well known for its Price of AUD2.80 for every item in the store, Daiso is a real treasure trove for those who loves tupperware type containers, kitchenwares for peanut prices. A physical store, one must visit to believe.

The Inner West Is My Oyster.

Imagine having the the divine world of fantastic food and exquisite fine dining in our very own backyard, now imagine no more. Inner West is fast becoming the capital of boutique eateries and frontier promenade for inventive gastronomical delights.

Oscillate Wildly and its offering of eight courses degustation leads the way with its high profile chef and owner Karl Firla (ex Est., Marque, and Bridgewater Mill) putting his clever stamp on culinary design.

Hartyard, Bloodwood and Black Star Pastry can all hold their own in bustling Newtown for their pedigree of fantastic chefs and cutting-edge menu. Their loyal fans have helped their business grow from strength to strength in the times of economic anemia.

Slightly off the beaten track "Six Penny" has carved out a wonderful space in Stanmore to deliver maximum food style with its steady supply of beautiful self-grown produce from the Southern Highlands.

What is it about the Inner West that attracts so many talented chefs to build their food empire here? Is it the air of bohemia that lurks amongst rugged streets or the youthful demographic of its occupants. As rents continue to rise, a new generation of tech workers and internet designers are moving out of the inner city of Sydney, into the Inner West in droves. Currently their occupancies are spreading out of Newtown toward Marrickville, Erskinville and Dulwich hill.

The hipster of today is making a conscious decision to live and live well now, their support and interest in designer food are breeding an endless supply of fancy food shops as pureplay fashion businesses and high rents continue to evacuate bricks and mortar apparel shops. This makes the inner west a playground for food adventurists and culinary thrill seekers.

Australian media culture has also been partially responsible for fuelling rapid rise in mass interest for designer food. Multiple variations of television programmes and reality based shows are now airing across national networks. Reputable chefs working in hatted restaurants are now the celebrity of the moment. They are especially favoured for endorsing everything from pasta sauces to charity drives. It is only fitting the fashionable areas of the inner west too, are now courting vibrant and well known chefs to continue the area’s property growth. You heard it here first - fashion is out, FOOD is in.

Oscillate Wildly - Newtown

Six Penny - Stanmore

Hartsyard - Newtown

Black Star Pastry - Newtown

Bloodwood - Newtown

MakMak - Macarons - newtown

Strawberry Fields - Dulwich Hill

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