In recent years I've been asked many times my view on whether green initiatives such as rain water tanks and solar panels added value to a property.  Our research showed, sadly, that it did not.

However, because of what must be described as a stunning green revolution, I now feel that the playing field has changed dramatically.  In July, the Federal Government formally committed Australia to an emissions trading scheme, and only last week their chief advisor, Professor Garnaut, proposed a 10% reduction in Australia's carbon emissions by 2020. Make no mistake, the new cost of energy, and how this will benefit well-designed and well-located properties (and detract from poorly designed and poorly located properties) will become a significant driver of the prices of homes.

Read on to find out more…

The Federal Budget's implications for property will largely be determined by its impact on the Reserve Bank's interest rate approach. The consensus view of commentators is that the actual Budget didn't match the prior tough rhetoric and rates are now more likely to go up or stay put for longer than go down in 2008.

For more on how the Budget will impact on our property markets, read the full story from Greville Pabst, director of WBP Property...

When one of our readers sent in a question for our Ask the Experts segment regarding independent valuations, CEO of WBP Property Greville Pabst decided it required a concise and detailed response...

This timely article by CEO of WBP Property, Greville Pabst, explores how the turbulent times the US economy is struggling with at the moment will impact on property here at home.

Read on to find out what it all means...

There is no doubting the confusion surrounding the differences between a council rates notice valuation and an independent property valuation. Some property owners swear by their rates notice valuation, even though they may not realise they are conducted every two years.Whereas, some are property savvy and understand the property market is prone to fluctuation.

Finally, Greville Pabst, CEO & Director of WBP Property Group gives investors the inside scoop on how these valuations work and what they mean for you...

Many people know the basics of what can impact the value of their property - overhead power lines and busy roads versus sea/tree views and a short stroll to the local coffee shop.

 

To gain a better idea of how to improve the value of your property, it is worthwhile taking a look at what a professional valuer looks for when inspecting a property and how they arrive at the valuation figure.