Category: News

Guest Post by Maria Dalit

Hiring a professional tile installer is still the way to go.

You can easily DIY your way around it but the hassle of ensuring that you got the job done well is not worth it.

With a professional installer, you need not worry if you got the job done because skilled experts know exactly how to apply complicated patterns and tiles in the fastest way possible.

No one wants to be left with a tile installation that has mistakes here and there.

Some DIY projects even turn up so bad that all tiles end up being removed altogether.

To avoid such trouble, hire a professional that can easily and efficiently do everything for you.

A professional tile installer can ensure that your tiles are applied flawlessly.

You just need to book a schedule and they’d be on it. However, not all tile installers are good.

To ensure that you get the best tile installer for your house, we’ve prepared a foolproof five-step action plan for you.

By doing each and every single thing on our list, we can assure you that you’d end up hiring only the best and most qualified tile installer that your home deserves. 

The 5 things that you should definitely consider doing before hiring a tile installer

Task No 1: Look for a person with experience.

It may seem like tile installation is something that any handyman or Jack-of-all-trades can do, but such is not the case.

Please avoid hiring general carpenters or anyone you know like your brother’s best friend’s cousin to do the job for you.

To ensure that your tiles get installed flawlessly, hire someone with at least over three years of experience in installing tiles.

His or her experience should be varied enough.

A three-year-experience would ensure you that your tile installer truly knows how to do a wall, shower, floor, and other kinds of tile installation.

Hiring an experienced tile installer is way better and truly less expensive than hiring someone who’d end up doing a job that would require numerous fixes.

Task No 2: Ask for recommendations from professionals.

This is something that you could easily and conveniently do while tile shopping.

While going from one shop to another and canvassing on your tiles of choice, make it a point to take to contractors, designers, architects, and salespeople around.

These people have a wealth of knowledge and experience when it comes to directly working with qualified and experienced installers.

In just minutes, they can give you a list of tile installers that they’ve worked with and fully trust.

Talking to a commercial instructor would also be beneficial.

The majority of sold tiles are used for commercial buildings which is why commercial contractors know the best of the best when it comes to tile installers.

Ask around and also ask for recommendations from some family and friends that have had their tiles installed by experts.

Task No3: Look for a licensed installer.

This is an important thing to do.

When hiring an installer, the best way to verify his expertise is to check if he or she is licensed, certified, and insured.

To ensure that you are dealing with a professional in the field, ask if your tile installer is a member of the Tiles and Tiling Industry Association of Australia (TTIAA).

The TTIAA ensures the protection of consumers by providing strong industry standards.

Membership with the TTIAA will easily verify that the tile installer that you’re working with is committed to professional excellence and the protection of consumers at all times.

The TTIAA ensures that all members are fully updated on the latest technology and techniques in the tiling industry.

Task No 4: Make it a point to ask essential questions.

Once you’ve finalized a list of tile installers to choose from, it is important for you to make it a point to ask them the following questions:

1. How many working days will it take to finish the project?
2. How much tile will be needed for the project?
3. How many people will be needed to work on the project?
4. Have you worked on a similar project before?

It is important for you to ask the following questions because it will help you gauge the professionalism, skills, industry know-how, experience, and competency of your prospective tile installer.

A good one will be able to give you solid answers that are reliable and quantifiable.

Opt for one that has had experience in doing your project.

It’s always best to work with one that already knows what to do than with one who’d go by trial and error.

A tile installer can be an expert but still limited when it comes to experience because there are different kinds of tile installation projects like large format tile installations and wood-look installations that require particular expertise.

Task No 5: Request for their portfolio.

Last but definitely not least, you should request photos of your prospective tile installer’s completed projects.

Any professional tile installer will always be instantly ready in sharing his portfolio.

His portfolio will clearly show his completed works. 

Most tile installers have active social media pages so you could also check out their work there.

When checking, look closely, and observe the level of their work.

Check for even spacing and ensure that grout lines are immaculately straight.

You should also ensure that there is no lippage.

Closely check doors, windows, and corners. It is not acceptable if you’d see large gaps, ill-fitting tiles, or too much grout.

A Solid Recommendation

If you’re looking for a Perth tiling contractor, do check out GIB Tiling.

GIB Tiling is a proud member of the Tiles and Tiling Industry Association of Australia with over 15 years of experience in the industry.

They provide the friendliest professional rates and service the whole of Perth, WA.

Guest Post by Maria Dalit

This article will help you decide if you need to update your security system if you’ve moved into a new house and you have no idea what to do with its existing security system. 

In truth, the best thing to do is to fully update everything.

The more update your security system is, the better.

Newer and more robust security technologies are being introduced by the minute and if you’re existing security system is at least five years old, chances are it’s already considered ancient in the industry.

However, you need not fully update everything.

In truth, regardless if you bought a new house or not, whenever you encounter a question involving the update of your security system, you actually have three options:

1. Use the existing system as is and just have it activated.
2. Go for an upgrade on old parts.
3. Go for a full update and upgrade and dispose of your current security system.

To know which of the three options is best for you, we’d carefully discuss the pros and cons of each.

After reading this, you’d easily be able to know what to do with your current security system.

Option No. 1: Activating Your Existing Security System

If your new property already comes with an existing security system, the option of just having it reactivated is very much available to you.

The same principle applies regardless if we talk of a home security system or a business security system. 

But should you simply have it reactivated?

Well, it depends on numerous factors.

Of the many factors, you have to prioritize the security system’s age and its manufacturer.

Legacy security systems are common because they actually get the job done.

However, old ones can’t be relied upon as much because updating and upgrading will be pretty challenging.

If your existing security system is already outdated, its security capabilities will already be limited as upgrades and updates won’t be possible.

Old security systems are also more vulnerable as most still send alerts via landlines that can easily be cut by intruders.

You’re lucky if your system is up-to-date because you just simply need to reconnect it.

Sticking with old systems is budget-friendly because you won’t need to spend so much on new expensive hardware.

If you have a to-code fire system, we DO NOT recommend have it replaced because the process is complicated and pretty expensive.

Option No. 2: Updating Your Current System

If you think your current security system needs some work already, then you should consider giving it an update or upgrade.

This option is financially sound because you won’t have to spend as much.

Old systems only have limited parts that can be updated.

The older a system is the lesser probability of having more parts updated.

If you’re open to upgrading limited parts, it’s best to look for local security providers that can guide you every step of the way on all your security systems Perth needs.

Because they are experts in the field, they’d easily be able to enlist all your upgrade options upon seeing your system.

They can also easily give model recommendations that fit the level of security you need. 

If your current security system still connects to a landline, we highly suggest that you have it updated already because such a system is sensitive to tampering.

Look for a security systems provider that offers cellular modules so you could easily connect your entire security system to your smartphone.

Option No. 3: Disposing of Your Old Security System

If you want to reconnect your current system nor do any limited hardware update or upgrade, then the best thing for you to do is to opt for a full upgrade.

As we’ve mentioned earlier, this is pretty much the best option because opting for it will give you numerous choices when it comes to the latest in security and surveillance technology.

This can be a costly choice, but it’s way better than updating on a minimal basis but always needing to have technicians around to fix slowly deteriorating systems and parts.

If you’re going to add up unwanted repair costs that would accumulate through time, the costs will be pretty much the same.

The truth of the matter is, old security systems were not designed to last for a long time. This is why old systems are prone to errors, lags, shutdowns, and malfunctions. 

Security systems installed in the early 2000s are pretty much ancient at this point.

If you think that you’re saving more from not updating it, you’re actually doing the opposite.

Older systems are harder to maintain because upkeep requires experts on the system that is now slowly dwindling.

If you’d opt for a full upgrade, you’d highly benefit from today’s technology that allows for security systems to last for decades.

Today’s security systems are easily programmable and conveniently upgradable across all endpoints.

They are now so simple that some can even be installed without the help of technical experts.

Today’s security systems are also wireless and mobile-friendly.

Wireless systems with their own touchscreen panel are highly customizable.

Users can easily add features for smart locks, smart lighting, and even thermostat control. What’s ultra amazing is the fact that all can be controlled and monitored through your smartphone.

Choose Wisely

While going for a full-on upgrade of your entire security system is advised, we still highly recommend for you to explore different options and factors.

You need not spend a lot if what you have is already working and just needs a few tweaks here and there.

Knowing your priorities when it comes to maintaining your property’s security is best for it will allow you to zone in on matters and factors that truly matter. 

Guest Post by Bogdan Butoi

Buying a new home can be a challenging event for some people, yet an exciting one. Choosing the right home appears to come up with lots of consequences if you’re not well-prepared. We’ve gathered in this article some of the most important tips to consider when buying your new home. 

First, ask yourself if you’re ready to buy a new home.

Where should you start?  . . . As a first-time home buyer, the entire process might seem like a daunting task. but it shouldn’t be,

If you give yourself enough time to prepare and make the process run smoothly.

Building the home of your dreams can become real, but the key is to make a plan first. 

Organize the purchasing process to make sure that your journey is satisfying.

The goal is to understand the new home buying process, so you know what to expect.

You have plenty of questions, for sure, but first, consider which type of home, neighborhood, and mortgage are right for you.

Then, you can think about how to personalize your home.

Let’s see some examples of new homes offers:

• Large bedrooms with big closets, and luxurious baths

• Energy efficiency (significant cost savings).

• Open floor living rooms (open to the kitchen).

• Brand new furniture and products, under warranty.

• Stylish cabinets, countertops, carpets, tiles, flooring, appliances, and more. 

Given the many advantages of new homes, most home shoppers are already putting them on their lists. Let’s see some other significant factors that will help make the purchase faster. 

Check your credit score

One of the most important factors to consider when buying a new home is that you need a good credit score.

If your credit score is good, you’ll get approved easily and in favorable terms, but if your credit score is low, the chances are that you won’t get approval.

If, however, you’re going to get approved, you’ll have high interest rates. Credit score examples:

• • • Reasonable: 580-690

• • • Good: 740-790

• • • Excellent:800+ 

Check your credit score and determine if it needs improvement.

Lenders will analyze your credit score and look for the highest credit rating possible.

Your credit score can impact your mortgage, loans, and credit cards.

You should pay attention to your payment history and current debts; it may influence the type of credit or loan you want to obtain. 

Choosing your first mortgage

Before starting the home research, wait for the pre-approved letter for a mortgage.

Choosing the right mortgage is a significant decision that can make a big difference, financially speaking.

There are so many options available, no wonder it can be hard to choose which mortgage suits your needs best.

First time buyers should come up with a list before starting the buying process:

• • • How big is your deposit?

• • • Mortgage overpayments

• • • How much money can you borrow? 

• • • Repayment? Or interest only?

• • • Consider the mortgage fees

• • • Mortgage penalties

• • • Are you qualified for a government scheme?

First thing you’ll need to do is to talk to a mortgage agent.

After deciding which mortgage suits your needs, you can go directly to a lender, or get the mortgage through an agent.

How much deposit do you need for a home loan? . . . Most banks or lenders will require a deposit of 20%.

If you’re determined to raise the money, there’s a high chance that the properties prices to increase, especially in big cities. 

Speak with your lender and see which opportunities you have to reach your property goals and get approval for a home mortgage.

In the meantime, to see if you’re able to afford the monthly payments, you can use the mortgage repayment calculator.

You just have to enter your incomes and expenses into the budget planner calculator, and wait for the answer.

You’ll receive a picture in an easy-to-understand format that will help you determine what type of home loan may suit your financial incomes. 

Determine your budget

There are other costs included along with the loan payment, including:

• Mortgage insurance

• Property taxes

• HOA fees (Homeowners Association Fees)

• Homeowners insurance

You must ensure that you have enough money to cover all that cost.

The property taxes, homeowner’s insurance, and mortgage insurance are added to your monthly payment.

Your debt-to-income ratio (DTI ratio) will determine the maximum amount of money you’re qualified for. DTI to your monthly income related to your monthly duties (auto loans, credit cards, etc.).

The maximum of DTI ratio lenders will allow you is 41%. 

Make a list with home features you want in your new home

It’s a good idea to consider the key features of your new home.

Ask for opinions to your family and friends who already been into the process of buying and organizing a home.

What important features they wish they had? Or didn’t have?

How many bedrooms, bathrooms are needed in a home?

You’re likely to receive some great answers and ideas.

You can’t really find a house with everything you need in it. . . .So, prioritize making a list with home features you want in your new house and be ready to compromise. 

Hire a real estate agent

First-home buyers make the terrible mistake of not calling a real estate agent.

They will help you find the home of your dreams.

However, you want to avoid paying for fees, as realtors can get good commission when you buy a house.

You might say “It’s all about the money…”. But it’s not always about money,

if we consider how beneficial it is to sit relaxed on the couch and let others do the work for you. So, why not use an estate agent? 

Compare loans from multiple lenders

Compare loan offers from many lenders – when shopping for a new home, it’s not recommended to stop along the first lender that will approve your loan.

You should compare your loan offers from many lenders, and choose the one that suits your needs.

Rates and fees can vary from one lender to another, so make sure you negotiate lower fees with lenders. 

Guest Post by Fernando Kidd

Whether you like it or not, there will come a time that you’ll need to replace your roof.

So, you really have to check your roof and see if it’s showings some signs that it needs to be replaced. 

It is also no secret that roofing is one of the costliest repairs an average home can suffer.

However, many people don’t know how to save money on roof replacements. 

If you are experiencing problems with your roof, here are five tips that will help you save a lot of money.

Hire a Professional

One of the best ways to save on roof repair is by not trying to do a major remodel on your own.

Instead, hire a contractor or a company that specializes in roof repairs.

While it might cost more upfront, having a professional install a new roof and make sure it is in good shape for a longer time is the better choice.

Doing repairs on your own is far riskier and will likely lead to costly damages and further necessary repairs in the future. 

But you don’t have to hire just any professional here.

One way to find the right roofing company is by asking around among friends and family.

Find out who the best roofers in your neighborhood are, like the roof replacement NOVA services, and try to work with them instead of trying to save money on the roof repair with the cheapest company you find.

While it might take some work to find the perfect company, the price will be worth it in the long run.

Know about the Materials Needed for the Project

When a new roof is installed, the materials needed will vary depending on what type of roof you have or what kind of roof you would like to have instead of your current one.

Some contractors will charge more for materials when installing a shingle roof while others will charge less if you have a fiber-cement shingle roof.

Always do some research so you know what types of roof materials the contractors will charge you for.

Make Sure You Have the Right Equipment on Hand

When going through the roof repair, always make sure the company you choose uses the proper equipment.

Most companies have the correct tools for any type of roof repair.

The reason being is that their main goal is to get your roof repaired in a timely manner so you won’t have to call them for another job in the future.

It’s also important that they have the right tools on hand for each job so they can do a job quickly and in a big time.

Having the right tools will also save you time as you don’t have to waste time running back and forth from the garage to your house to pick up or place equipment on the roof.

Many companies also provide their customers with a free estimate so they don’t have to ask anyone to come out and make an estimate.

Make Sure That the Professionals You Hire are Insured

When hiring someone to fix your roof, you should make sure they are insured.

If you have renter’s insurance, the insurance company will cover the cost of repair in the case of anything damaged while working on your roof.

This is one of the best ways to save on your roof repair. Even if you don’t have renter’s insurance, you can still save a lot of money with this.

Do Some of the Work

If you really want to save money further on roof replacement, you can try doing some of the work such as roof cleaning.

Roof cleaning is usually done by the professional and is often part of their services.

They usually hire help to do the cleaning for them before they can start their work. . .but you can always do it on your own.

This way, your overall cost will be much lesser that you thought it would be. 

You can also let your contractors know that you’ll do the post-construction cleanup on your own to make your overall costs much lesser.

Although it might sound like a complicated task, it is actually a lot easier than you think, and can even be a great bonding experience with the entire family.

Conclusion

You can save money on roof repairs, if you take the time to hire the right roofing company and the right equipment.

Also, you want to make sure that you only hire the best contractors because there is nothing worse than hiring a company that uses super tools and does shoddy work.

Always make sure to ask to see all paperwork and guarantee documents to make sure the contractor is working professionally and is insured.

Once everything is done, you’ll start enjoying the benefits of having a new roof again.

Fernando Kidd
Fernando Kidd has always loved doing home improvement projects on his own.

His passion for home improvement has motivated him to start his own blog as his way of teaching other homeowners on how they can properly and easily make renovations around their properties.

Fernando also submits guest posts to other home improvement websites in order to expand his reach and gain more readers.

Guest Post by Sydney Property Valuers Metro

Everyone enjoys talking about the property market, with some people talking about prices, whereas others are interested in discussing whether or not they should buy an existing home or build a new one.

The decision you make will depend on what your needs are and where you want to buy a property.

Buying land

As everyone is well aware, land is in short supply in the major cities like Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

If you want a home in the centre of the city then buying vacant land and building your own home simply won’t be an option because there isn’t the land available.

If you’re not concerned with owning in the city then building your own home could be the most suitable option for you. If you do decide to build your own home then you will need to purchase some land.

Before purchasing land you’ll need to consider the following:

• • The zoning. Whilst you may just plan to build a house, the area might be zoned for industrial or commercial purposes and you will need to decide if you want to live next to commercial or industrial property. If you don’t mind living in an industrial or commercial area then you will have more options available to you.
  • What is the property’s water sources? Can you collect rain water and store it in a tank? It is becoming increasingly common for new properties to use more sustainable water sources such as rainwater, stormwater, greywater, private dams, reticulated recycled water and hot water diversion. Water is an essential service so it’s important to know your water source before you buy the land.
  • Utility access. The price you pay for your utilities such as gas, electricity and water may be higher in rural areas where there is less competition.
  • What is the area’s climate? The climate is important because after buying the land when you build the property the climate will be a key factor in deciding how to build the home, for example, what type of insulation do you need? What types of plants and vegetables will you grow? Is the property likely to be affected by extreme conditions such as bushfires or flooding.
  • The soil quality. This may seem like an odd thing to think about when thinking about what land to buy but it’s actually pretty important because if the soil needs significant work then getting earthworks done and improving the land stability could prove to be quite costly. That’s before you’ve even built the home which is another expense you need to factor in when starting off from scratch. 
  • Slope of the block of land. If you buy land that’s on a steep incline then you may be limited in the type of house that you can build however you may be able to trade that off with appealing views. There is however the risk of erosion caused by the weather which means that any home you build won’t be as secure and that could affect your insurance premiums.

Building your home

 

After purchasing the block of land the next step is to get the home built but before you can do that you’ll need to decide if you want to use a pre designed production home or a custom home that you work with an architect to design.

Ultimately your budget will be a deciding factor in what type of design you choose for your home.

If you have the budget for it then a custom home is always going to be a better choice because you can make the home exactly what you want it to be and you can select the materials that are used. 

Production home

When you opt for a production home you will have some choices, however they are limited and you will only be able to choose upgrades from a predetermined product category.

If you want to make changes, you would need to do that later on after the home has already been built which could be a costly experience to customise it for your individual tastes and preferences.

When  you purchase a production home the builder will generally own the land that the house is built on and the construction company will help you arrange your mortgage.

Before the mortgage contract is drawn up you will need to get the property valued.

Sydney Property Valuers Metro provide expert property valuation reports in Sydney and can simplify this process for you.

The advantage of a production  home is that you can get the house and land as a packaged deal so you won’t need to worry about getting the house built at a later date.

Deciding what type of home you want can be a lengthy process whereas if you choose a production home then the pressure is taken off because you can choose from a variety of different housing plans that can be customised. 

You may be worried that a production home is going to be a costly experience and that it will be out of your budget but that’s not the case at all.

Production houses are built at a range of different price points whether you’re a first home buyer, upgrading or wanting a luxury home.

Custom build

Everyone has different needs.

Some people have three children whereas some people have no children.

Some people have dogs and some people have cats.

Others want an entertaining area whereas some people tend to go out to socialise so having an entertaining area doesn’t matter.

Then there are people who work from home and those who work in an office.

A custom build will allow you to get everything you want in your home and that it is uniquely yours.

If you work from home then you may want a room that’s specifically designed to be a home office but if you have kids you could want one of the rooms in the house to be a play room for the kids, or a room for your cat or dog to sleep in at night.

If you’ve decided to go with a custom build then before you select a builder you should conduct research to see what builders are available.

Then you should chat to a few of them to see what they can offer within your budget.

It should go without saying but you should also only go with a licensed builder to ensure that the build is covered by builders insurance.

Builders insurance is important because it protects your home should something go wrong during the construction process.

Builders insurance can also protect you in the event that the builder goes bankrupt or there’s flood or storm damage.

Given a house is a huge expense, sometimes costing up to $1 million or more, it’s really important that you do your due diligence before making any decisions related to whether or not you choose a production home or a custom home.

 

The kitchen is truly the heart of the home. It is where you prepare meals that nourishes your body, a place to get together with your family and friends, and basically reflects the personality and lifestyle of the people living at home. Because the kitchen has a lot of functions and it is a high-use area, there is no doubt that this is the most difficult room in the house when it comes to packing for a home move. It is usually full of heavy, strangely shaped, and fragile items, vay of which are quite expensive.

Now, if you are getting ready to move to a new home and are overwhelmed with how to begin your packing process, most especially in the kitchen, these useful tips might help you to get started.

 

1. Select and Sort Things

Get rid of the kitchen items you haven’t used for a long time and choose only the kitchen items you need for your new home. You can sort things according to their usage.

Donate/ Sell / Gift – Items you haven’t used for quite some time and are still in good condition can be sold. You may also give some of your kitchen items to family and friends who might want them or simply donate to a local charity.

Seldom Used – There are items you seldom use. Those you only use for parties or other special occasions like wine glasses, platters, vases, and other wares. It is best to pack these first.

Essentials – These are the items that you use and need daily like dishes, silverware, handy appliances like coffee make and toaster, and some food items you still need. You can pack these later as you still need them until the last few days in your old home.

2. Get Proper Packing Supplies

A lot of fragile items can be found in your kitchen, so you need to invest in packing supplies to secure your kitchen items through the entire moving process.

Prepare heavy-duty boxes in various sizes, a good amount of packing paper and bubble wrap, packing tape, markers. Dividers for your glassware will also help ensure they stay in place and prevent them from tapping each other during the move.

3. Prepare a box for Essentials

Remember to set aside kitchen items that you’ll need on hand for the last couple days before your move and on the first couple of days in your new home. Prepare an essentials box that contains kitchen utensils (plates, cups, forks, spoon) for each member of the family, hygiene items like soaps, toilet papers, trash bags, rags, etc.) towels, and emergency kit. You can also include in this box the remaining ingredients, snacks, and drinks.

4. Start Packing

Once you already sort things out and prepare for the necessary packing supplies to use, you can start packing the items in the kitchen. Pack kitchen items depending on its type.

Dinnerware

Line the bottom of your packing box with bubble wrap or packing paper. Make sure that you wrap each item and use a good amount of packing paper or bubble wrap to secure the extremely fragile items. You may use cloth materials such as towels and old table cloth for wrapping and cushioning. Always pack the larger and heavier items first in the bottom of the box.

Silverware

Sort your silverware according to type. For spoon and forks, you can use a rubber band or any strings to bundle them together and then wrap it with some packing paper. Once secured, place it in the box.

For packing sharp knives, roll each blade with at least 3 layers of packing paper and secure it with packing tape.

 

Food

Few weeks before the move, you should start consuming the food items in your cabinets or fridge for you to have less waste and fewer items to pack. For perishables like meat, egg and dairy products, these items won’t survive unless you’re moving nearby. If you are having a long-distance home move, you can check any families or friends if they want to have these

Non-perishables like canned goods, pasta and other items can be packed in a box. But if you are having a long-distance move and are hiring a removalist, you must consider how heavy the shipment is. Removalists also based their quotes on the weight of the goods to be transported. If it’s not cost effective, consider donating these times in a local food bank.

Appliances

Appliances are best packed using its original box. Make sure to pack them in advance so all are ready on the day of the move.  Each appliance should be clean and dry before packing. Parts that are detachable, especially those that are fragile, should be removed. Wrap the fragile pieces with a generous amount of bubble wrap.

Using these tips can help you ensure a stress-free home move. But if you don’t have enough time and you need some professional help, the first question you might have in mind is, “Where can I find trusted removalists near me?”

Using platforms that will help you reach out to a number of local and interstate man with van services is a good start.

Guest post by Asad Shoaib

Taking a loan to buy a home or any property is the biggest commitment you would ever make.

You must look at the long term view of the situation to make sure that you can pay back without facing any hassle.

You can also refinance your current loan after considering the circumstances to ensure whether it is the right time to do so or not.

For instance, if there is a significant change occur in your financial position, the refinancing option will make sense.

However, you should follow small tips and tricks to ensure that you carry out this process wisely.

Here are the top 7 tips mentioned to help you get the most out of Australian mortgage refinancing.

Interest Rate/ Honeymoon Rate

The interest rate that the lender offers should remain constant throughout the process.

Some lenders might offer a lower interest rate for the honeymoon period, so the interest rate reverts to a higher than the standard rate after the honeymoon periods ends.

So, you should make sure that the interest rate you are considering is for the life of the mortgage instead of a particular phase.

Comparison

It is wise to compare the best Australian home loans options to be able to analyze them properly.

Each option would further have different features that you might or might not need.

So, make sure that you choose the best suitable option after considering all the features, headlines rates, ongoing fees, exit fees, and application fees.

If you make the decision this way, you won’t have to pay extra for the features you don’t use.

You should also keep an eye on all available deals at the moment and compare them to ensure that you cut down the maximum cost to repay your loan quickly.

Mortgage Applications

While making the comparison, you shouldn’t send mortgage applications to all of the options you come across as it can reduce your credit worthiness.

Instead, it will help if you first finalize your option and then send the mortgage application to that one lender that fulfils your needs.

You can also get in touch with him to have a detailed conversation regarding the further process.

Loan Affordability

You should have a clear idea about your loan affordability.

If the interest rate of your loan is highly likely to get increased in the future, you should be prepared to pay that increase to the minimum repayment amount of your loan.

You can also ask your lender if he offers any discount for a specific professional group or organization where you work to ensure your affordability.

It is even better if you make a proper budget plan to determine your limitations and constraints beforehand.

Equity

You can make use of your equity to make the most out of your refinancing option.

For instance, you can upgrade your old home by doing some renovations.

You can also rent out your property to potential tenants after applying some useful home care tips.

Whatever plan you make, you should do a few calculations to make sure that you can afford it.

Also, your plan must be able to work well even if any change in the lifestyle or emergency causes a sudden shift in your finances.

Right Time

In addition to the long-term view, you should also consider the current time or situation if you want to make the most out of your mortgage refinancing in Australia.

Also, analyze both the pros and cons properly to end up with a decision that turns out to be profitable for you.

For instance, you must know if you take a home loan during pandemic, what are the possible consequences or challenges you will have to face.

At this time, you might get the lowest interest rate, but it depends upon your income source whether you will be able to pay it or not.

Also, if you want to go for the mortgage refinancing option to get the positive outcome, the lender you choose must be offering relief packages to his borrowers.

It will allow the delay of repayments for at least three to six months in critical situations.

Flexible Repayment

When you start searching for different Australian mortgage refinancing options, you should consider the one that allows you to choose a repayment schedule based on your needs.

It is also wise to select the fortnight repayment plan rather than monthly.

For instance, if you make a monthly payment of $5000, it means you would have paid $60,000 over a year whereas when you make a fortnightly payment of $2500, you would have paid off $65,000 by the end of the year, which is a month more over a year.

Guest Post by Shawn Edwards

LED bulbs and fittings are becoming more of the preferred choice of electricity mode.

An LED lamp or light bulb makes use of one or more colour-shifting lights that make use of the energy emitted by a diode.

This energy can be used to either give off light or create heat, which makes it suitable for lighting up any kind of surface.

The advantages of these are what have encouraged many to move away from fluorescent lighting, just as most of us moved from incandescent lighting to fluorescent.

LED bulbs, however, do have disadvantages which can be tackled by involving electricians.

Here are some advantages and disadvantages of LED bulbs or integrated fittings.

Advantages

LED bulbs bring a wide-variety of advantages for those who choose to switch over to them.

Eco-Friendly 

One of the advantages of LED bulbs is that these are environmentally friendly.

These bulbs don’t create any mercury emissions that may cause harm in the environment.

The fact that these consume less power also means that greenhouse gas emissions are reduced so you can turn your home into an eco-friendly space by installing led lights Brisbane.

Various Colours 

LED bulbs come in different colours.

This is appreciated when you want to enhance the theme of a room, or prefer a colour that isn’t too bright but is efficient enough for you to have clear vision.

Colours range from white, red, blue, green, and other custom preferred combinations of colour.

You can use these multi-coloured bulbs to complement a ceiling fan design. When you switch on the fan, the light simultaneously switches on meaning you enjoy the functions of both the light and the cooling effect of the fan.

Low Maintenance 

LED installations and bulbs have a long life meaning, you don’t have to constantly worry about replacing these.

This means that you get to save on maintenance costs compared to more traditional lighting, such as fluorescent.

You only have to consider having an electrician come to clean light fixtures or do routine electrical checks.

Fire Safety

Installing LED lighting means lowering the risk of electrical fires.

This is because LED converts electrical power to electromagnetic radiation within a semiconductor.

This means that LED installations require fewer routine checks and fire prevention measures, which can become a financial disadvantage over time.

Various Installation Spaces

LED lights can be installed in all sorts of locations, so they can be used anywhere where conventional lighting is not possible.

If you plan to put up a new building, then you can choose to have LED lighting on the floor or above the windows  because it requires less space and does not require the same kind of installation as more traditional lighting.

Electricity Usage 

LED lights also have reduced electricity usage as compared to incandescent and fluorescent lighting.

Disadvantages

While LED lights have many great advantages, it is worth taking a look at the disadvantages so you can make a fully informed decision for your and your home’s needs.

Heat Absorbers

LED lights are susceptible to heat. If you live in a particularly warm climate, or are working in a room made hot through activities like cooking, your LED lights will likely deteriorate more quickly than they would in a cooler environment, which can reduce the longevity of your purchase.

Price

Compared to incandescent and fluorescent lighting, LED bulbs themselves – and their installation, depending on how extensive your renovation is – tend to be more expensive per unit. The initial cost of replacing your lighting may be higher than it would be with other kinds of lighting.

Potential Eye Damage 

We mentioned that one of the advantages of LED lights is that they come in different colours.

However, the dimmer the colour, the more you strain your eyes under the light.

Continuous use of dimmed lights may lead to eye damage, meaning you might not want to rely on this type of lighting for prolonged periods.

Conclusion

Although there are disadvantages to LED lights, the advantages are ones to be appreciated and outweigh many of the costs.

These include the eco-friendly effect that the bulbs and installations contribute, various colours, low maintenance costs and fire safety.

Make sure to have expert electricians to install LED lights that will let them function optimally.

You can also consult an electrician on things to consider such as the efficiency of the LEDs being used.

It is important to measure the amount of energy that these lamps produce to ensure that they are suited for the job that they are meant to do.

Shawn Edwards is a father to three children and blogger who writes pieces on home improvement. Shawn’s blog is filled with articles and videos to teach his readers how to be successful with their home improvement projects, and where they can buy the best tools for these projects.

Guest Post by Monika

There’s so much going on in a bathroom that finding the space to squeeze in storage can often be tricky.

But storage is super important, especially if it’s a really tiny bathroom we’re dealing with.

Leaving your hygiene essentials and personal care products out in the open contributes to clutter and makes an already small space feel even more cramped.

Luckily for you, there are plenty of smart ways you can add storage and make even the smallest of bathrooms serene and clutter-free.

Do Get a Vanity

As far as bathroom furniture goes, a vanity is the most hardworking piece you can include.

It offers a great amount of storage space, some practical counter space and can be a unique opportunity to add some stylish personality in a room that’s mostly about utility.

However, owners of small bathrooms can feel reluctant about including a vanity in their setup.

After all, a bathroom vanity is a piece of furniture that can take up a significant amount of floor space. . . but that may be the case if you go for a traditional vanity unit.

In fact, you’d be surprised by the amount of bathroom vanity units specifically designed to solve small space problems.

For instance, there’s a little something called a wall-hung vanity.

Wall-hung bathroom vanities are directly mounted on the wall, and as such, they leave the floor space beneath open.

You can utilise this space for other purposes or simply leave it empty.

By leaving it empty, you’ll manage to keep your bathroom feeling open and airy.

Then, there are bathroom vanity units with slim profiles.

These units are usually narrow and long, occupying more wall space than they do floor space.

As a result, you can store more things along your walls without affecting the freedom of movement in the bathroom.

Because they are long, these vanities also offer more counter space which you can also use for storing your things.

But If You Have a Pedestal Sink – Create an Improvised Vanity

Of course, not every bathroom can fit a vanity, even if it’s big enough. For instance, if you have a pedestal sink in place, there’s no possible way to fit a vanity – or that’s at least what you think.

With a little ingenuity, you can include a vanity without having to remove your pedestal sink.

For one, you can try to build a DIY vanity around the sink itself.

But if this seems like a complex project for you, you can simply sew a skirt that matches your bathroom’s colour palette and attach it to the sink.

Then, you can fit a few storage baskets or racks underneath where no one can see them.

A Mirrored Medicine Cabinet Can Go a Long Way

A mirror is obviously a non-negotiable element to include in a bathroom.

But you can make the mirror work even harder by picking one that’s incorporated into a medicine cabinet.

If you’re worried that a medicine cabinet will ruin your sleek bathroom design or hit you on the head when bent over the sink to wash your teeth, there’s always the possibility to have it built into a cavity inside the wall.

This way, it won’t stick out hideously, and your bathroom will have an undisturbed look.In addition to being highly functional, medicine cabinets can add a decorative touch to the bathroom as well, just like the vanity.

Pick a cabinet made of a rich hardwood such as oak or walnut that will bring some beautiful raw texture into the room.

A sloped finish on the edge of the mirror adds a subtle accent to the medicine cabinet while enhancing the mirror with polished elegance.

You can also keep your mirror frameless if you like crisp lines and precise angles.

Don’t be afraid to go for a big mirrored medicine cabinet.

The mirrors presence takes off some of the bulk from the cabinet.

Plus, the bigger the mirror the more light will bounce off the space, and this is one of the tricks you can use to make a small bathroom appear bigger than it is.

Mount Caddies on the Walls of Your Shower

Regardless whether you have a bathtub or not, you’ll probably agree that your shower space takes up a significant portion of your bathroom.

The walls around the shower are usually left empty because it’s not practical to hang something that will become wet the minute you hit the shower.

However you can use the walls to store the products and items you commonly use while in the shower.

You simply need to find some waterproof caddies made of plastic, stainless steel or some other type of non-corrosive metal and mount them on the shower walls.

This way, you will keep your shower essentials off the shower floor or bathtub and contribute to a more orderly look in the bathroom.

Plus, having all these things within easy reach can save you some time and effort when you’re hurrying to get ready in the morning.

If you have a glass screen that’s shielding your shower space, you can simply hang a caddy over its top.

This way, you don’t need to drill holes in the wall or use glue to fix the caddy.

Accessorise With Cute Storage Baskets

Storage baskets are a great way to add more storage space in the bathroom without spending a lot of money.

You can use them to store everything from laundry to clean towels and toiletries.

If you’re going to place them on the floor, choose tall and narrow baskets.

Shallow and long baskets can be conveniently tucked underneath a wall-hung vanity or a claw-foot bathtub or some other tub design that features legs and is elevated off the floor.

You can also mount these baskets conveniently on the wall where they will take up even less space.

Woven wicker baskets are a particularly cute option as they add an earthy warmth to the space.

Slimline Wall Shelving Can Have Decorative Potential

Slimline shelves are always a good idea to add extra storage in a small space.

If you already have your storage needs met with a bath vanity or medicine cabinet, you can also use these shelves for displaying some decorative items.

After all, the bathroom can use a personal touch no matter how big or small it is.

Consider placing some lovely scented candles that will add colour and help transform your bathroom into a spa whenever you need some unwinding.

Use the Door to Hang Hooks or Shelves

If you don’t want to damage your walls or wall tiles by installing hooks and shelves on them, consider using the door for the same purpose.

Mounting a simple rack over the door’s top can be a great solution for storing robes and towels.

You can also attach a few shelves on the backside of the door or mount shelves above the lintel.

Just keep in mind, that items placed on these shelves may be too high to easily retrieve.

Guest Post by Asad Shoaib

Replica furniture is highly in demand nowadays.

Most of the homeowners prefer to buy replica furniture instead of the original one.

It is one of the most convenient ways of buying affordable furniture pieces for a commercial or residential property.

However, there are certain critical aspects that you must keep in your mind beforehand to make a calculated and informed final purchase decision.

Here are a few things mentioned that you must know about before you buy replica furniture online.

Advertising

Advertising is now being used to divert your mind from your original goal.

For instance, if you start searching for your preferred supplier on Google, multiple ads from different companies will start popping up.

It will take you to the competitors’ websites with a few clicks.

So, you should be clear in your head about your needs and preferences when you buy replica furniture online.

Over Searching

When you start searching for authentic websites to buy your replica furniture, you will lose track of time.

Since it is exciting to explore different unseen options, you won’t realize how much time and energy you are wasting on it.

So, you must set a time limit to avoid over-searching and make your shopping experience enjoyable instead of hectic and tiresome.

Deals or Sales

Deals or sales can sometimes help cut down your cost.

But some scammers or low-quality suppliers also use cheap deals and sales to tempt the buyers.

It leads to impulse buying of those items that you don’t even need, so, make sure that you stay stick to your planning and decision to avoid regretting later.

Allocate Your Budget

When you allocate your budget in “must-have items” and “want to have items” categories, it saves a lot of your money and time from being wasted.

Most of the homeowners don’t realize the amount of money they are spending on buying replica furniture online.

This way, they end up facing the financial crisis. So, it is better to make a budget plan beforehand and allocate it properly to the different lists you create.

Quality

Replica furniture is considered to be the cheapest option because of the low prices, but it doesn’t mean that you will have to compromise on the quality of the product.

The supplier you choose must be trustworthy and reliable, like E living furniture that offers the best quality and durable furniture pieces at affordable prices.

Designs

The designs of replica furniture are common or local mostly.

However, when you decide to buy the replica furniture online, you should still search for the exclusive designs that reflect your lifestyle and fit into your room.

Accessible 

Replica furniture is easily accessible through online websites.

Moreover, if you are looking for beautiful antique pieces in great condition, you can get the replica furniture as an alternative.

However, it depends upon the manufacturer you choose whether he provides you with multiple useful options or not.