Homes with higher energy ratings could sell for more.

Homes with higher energy ratings could sell for more. Here's how Australian owners could cash in. Everybody wants an energy-efficient home. After all, an energy-efficient home is comfortable to live in, without large energy bills. These can be important factors for prospective home owners or renters. Our review of international research found energy-efficient homes typically fetch a higher price.

With first-home hopefuls set to face rising prices already in the housing market this year, the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme will offer help to a select number of buyers who may not have the backing of wealthy parents.  The scheme will allow 10,000 first-home buyers to purchase their first home each financial year with as little as a 5 per cent deposit, without incurring lenders mortgage insurance.

Putting a value on your property can sometimes be difficult when emotions and past expenditure come into play. This is why a professional agent’s opinion is so important.

Springtime is flagged as the prime real estate selling season, but opportunities exist in all markets provided your agent knows how to position your property effectively.  Other factors such as economic and market conditions as well as your own personal situation will also always play an important role in timing your sale.

Auctions are popular in the market at the moment and we suggest you familiarise yourself with the auction process. A standard residential property transaction is known as a Private Treaty sale. This is when you set the price you’d like your house to sell for, and your real estate agent negotiates individually with prospective buyers to achieve a sale as close to this price as possible.