Tiny Home Archives - Pop Up Homes

Can I Build a Granny Flat on My Property?

By VMA DEVGranny Flat, Kit Home, Pop Up Homes News, Small Home, Tiny Home

Granny flats are a rising trend in Australia. They’re compact, cosy and, some might even say, chic. But better than that, they answer that practical problem of extra space, while still being a dynamic, cost-effective and value-adding addition to your property. In fact, there are many (many) reasons why you should invest in a granny flat. But once you’ve decided that you’re ready to make that investment, it’s time to start considering the practicalities. And the first question you need to ask yourself is, ‘can I build a granny flat on my property?’

Can I Build a Granny Flat on My Property

When asking yourself, ‘can I build a granny flat on my property’ you have a number of things to consider.
1. First, will you be able to get council approval (and is it even necessary)?
2. Second, what restrictions are there on the size and placement of your granny flat, and does that work for your particular situation?
3. And third, what is your budget when it comes to building?

Can You Get Council Approval (and Is It Necessary)?

A ‘granny flat’ is simply a colloquial term for an “accessory dwelling unit”. But they’re also known as small homes, tiny homes, guest houses or mother-in-law flats. Essentially, they’re small fully-formed flats built on a piece of property that you already own, with self-contained bedrooms, kitchens and bathrooms. When it comes to understanding whether you can get council approval for building a granny flat on your property, and when and if it’s necessary, the answer isn’t simply a yes or no. Since it can take from 12 weeks to many months to get approvals (where they are required), it’s best to know where you stand and plan ahead.

What are the Restrictions on Size and Placement for Your Granny Flat?

Just as every area has their own regulations on building approvals, they also have their own rules governing the size and placement of your granny flat (and other things as well!). So, we’ve pulled together the general rules from some of Queensland’s most popular areas to help you answer the question, ‘can I build a granny flat on my property’. Of course, our expert team is always here to provide advice on your specific area and situation should you need it as well.

Brisbane Granny Flats

In Brisbane, you can build a secondary dwelling, like a granny flat, without any approvals at all as long as it’s a maximum of 80sqm, is being built for a member of your household and is less than 20 metres from your main dwelling. That’s a fantastic result, and makes it easy to add a granny flat to your property. On the other hand, you might want a slightly bigger space or want to build it further from your main home. In that case you will need to lodge a development application (DA). You will also need to lodge a DA if you plan on renting the flat to someone who is not part of your household.

You can read more about building granny flats in Brisbane on the Brisbane City Council website.

Contact Us About a Brisbane Granny Flat

Gold Coast Granny Flats

Unlike Brisbane, all granny flats built on the Gold Coast will require building approval from the council. This can be organised through a private certifier. You might also need a DA if your property is not in a residential zone. You can read more about building granny flats in the Gold Coast on the City of Gold Coast website.

Contact Us About a Gold Coast Granny Flat

Sunshine Coast Granny Flats

When asking yourself, can I build a granny flat on my property in the Sunshine Coast, you have to consider where it will be located. As of 2019, your granny flat must be designed and constructed so that is has an “association” with the primary home or dwelling on your property. In most areas, it also can’t exceed 90sqm in a rural or rural-residential zone, or 60sqm in any other zone (though this can be different in certain local areas). As with any granny flat, it’s important to speak to an expert before beginning to build on your Sunshine Coast property. You can read more about building granny flats in the Sunshine Coast on the Sunshine Coast Council website.

Contact Us About a Sunshine Coast Granny Flat

Logan City Granny Flats

In Logan, you can build a secondary, self-contained dwelling, or granny flat, as long as it’s 70sqm, in a residential zone and on a lot that is less than 1000sqm. If you have a lot that is bigger than 1000sqm then you can have a granny flat is that is a generous 100sqm. There are other requirements as well, including the rule that the secondary dwelling must only be occupied by persons who are in your same household. And it must be located beside, behind, below or above an existing or new dwelling.

You can read more about building granny flats in the Logan area on the City of Logan website.

Contact Us About a Sunshine Coast Granny Flat

Cairns Granny Flats

Cairns is a beautiful city and the Cairns city council also welcomes granny flats. Their rules are split into rural and non-rural as well. In rural areas, your secondary dwelling must be limited to 250sqm, while it’s 70sqm in all other zones.

You can read more about building granny flats in the Cairns area on the Cairns Building Plans.

Contact Us About a Cairns Granny Flat

Other Queensland Areas

f you live in another area in Queensland, we’ve got information for you on our Council Rules and Regulations page. Or, if you’re unsure on your local requirements around building a granny flat, always ask your local council or private certifier and builder. Or give our team of experts a call. We’re always happy to help!

What is Your Budget for Your Granny Flat?

Last, but definitely not least, you’ll want to consider your budget for building a granny flat on your property. While you might technically be able to do it (under the rules and regulations of your area), if it doesn’t make financial sense, and won’t be adding value to your property, it’s probably best to give it a pass. Just like with any home, the more features you add to your granny flat, the higher the cost will be to build it, but the more value you could potentially be adding. It’s best to consider what you are looking for, and what you have available to spend. Then speak to an expert about whether that’s a viable option in terms of financing and whether that will give you the outcomes you need.

Benefits of a Granny Flat

From bringing loved ones closer to getting more privacy yourself, from saving money to possibly earning an income, granny flats bring you lots of benefits. If you’re asking yourself, can I build a granny flat on my property, get in touch with our team today. We’re here to help you understand all your options.

September 16, 2021

The Fraser 2 Bedroom Granny Flat front view with shade sail and deck

Why You Should Invest In a Granny Flat?

By VMA DEVGranny Flat, Kit Home, Pop Up Homes News, Small Home, Tiny Home

With a growing popularity to seek out alternative living options as well as an increase in domestic house prices, it’s no surprise that Granny Flats are having a moment.

The Granny Flat is an attractive, affordable and accessible option for many and in this article, we explore the growth of this exciting living option alternative.

What Exactly Is A Granny Flat?

A Granny Flat is a complete home on a property that can house at least one person. It can be built as a separate structure or as an attachment to the main house. However, the common trait in most Granny Flats is that they can function as an independent unit.

Our range of Pop Up Homes offer up to 3 generous sized bedrooms including a living area, kitchenette and comfortable bathrooms.

Know someone who may be interested in a Granny Flat, refer Pop Up Homes and be rewarded.

Building A Granny Flat

The first thing you need to consider before you build a Granny Flat are your local Council bylaws. Fortunately, at Pop Up Homes, we have extensive experience dealing with local Councils concerning rules and regulations that concern your future Pop Up Home Granny Flat. As part of the process, we’ll check all the provisions that are required to deliver your fantastic new home.

While some disparities depend on your location, we at Pop Up Homes have written up an extensive list of Council rules and regulations for Councils across Queensland which you can view further by clicking through to this link: Pop Up Homes, council rules and regulations.

Granny Flats, A Rising Trend

The fact that housing prices are going through the roof is another factor in Granny Flat housing popularity. With a lot of young adults and teenagers unable to afford regular houses, they must rely on alternatives. A Granny Flat is more affordable, which puts it in high demand.

Know someone who may be interested in a Granny Flat, refer Pop Up Homes and be rewarded .

Uses of Granny Flats

There are several reasons for building Granny Flats, from economic considerations to family growth to leisurely activities.

Home For Elderly Family Members

It is possibly the purest way to use a Granny Flat. The name – Granny Flat – reflects the history and original purpose of these small homes. They were traditionally used to house aging parents or grandparents. It is a way to keep the family together while spontaneously allowing privacy.

Potential Extra Income

There are two smart ways to earn rent money from Granny Flats

Rent out your Granny Flat
Are you recently single, or the kids moved out? You can downsize to the Granny Flat and rent out the main house for a while.

Either way, you get to experiment with your property and see what comes off it. Some people even take Granny Flats more seriously as a real estate venture to secure their future.

Home Office

Starting a new business, or do you prefer working from home? A Granny Flat can provide you with the privacy and comfort you need while saving you some cost. Granny Flats as home offices are usually more efficient than in-house offices. The distractions are usually lesser. Besides, you get to design your office to your taste without restructuring your primary home.

Hobby Space

Granny Flats take the term “safe space” to the next level. It can serve as space where you can enjoy painting, gaming, reading, knitting, or even wine tasting, etc. You get to decide what you want and make it happen.

Guest Lodge

Who needs a guest house when you can have a Granny Flat? When friends and distant relatives come into town, you can treat them to your hospitality by offering your Granny Flat for their stay. On the one hand, you win the “friend of the year” award. On the flipside, you get to show off your taste and artistry, especially if you were actively engaged in designing your Granny Flat.

Add Value To Your Property

If you already own a rental property, building a Granny Flat increases the income from that property. It also increases the value of the overall property.

Extra Rooms For A Large Family

You can create extra bedrooms or living areas with Granny Flats without having to tear down and restructure your house. This can become quite useful if/when your kids become teens and young adults. Granny Flats provide some independence for young adults who aren’t yet financially stable enough to move out.

Temporary accommodation

Are you in-between houses, jobs, or just starting in life? Then renting a Granny House can be a smart choice. Young couples are an example of the beneficiaries of this arrangement. They can afford to rent a Granny House while they save to buy their home. Parents of the couple can also offer their Granny Flat to them for free.

Know someone who may be interested in a Granny Flat, refer Pop Up Homes, and be rewarded .

Contact Us Today

No matter what your Granny Flat requirements are, Pop Up Homes are your local Granny Flat, Small Home experts. With over 120 successfully built and delivered Granny Flats all over Queensland, we’ll have the perfect solution for you.

June 7, 2021

December 2020 Pop Up Homes Gazette

By VMA DEVPop Up Homes News

Hi, welcome to the December edition of the Pop Up Homes Gazette! We’re sure you’ll agree that it’s been a challenging year. Our entire team would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support and wish you a year of prosperity, good health, and good times ahead.

A quick reminder to those that are applying or interested to apply for the Queensland Regional and Home Builders Grant, applications are due by the 31st of December 2020 to be eligible for the grant.

Customers who will be using the grant to purchase a Pop Up Home will need to have made contact with Pop Up Homes to commence the grant application process by the 18th December 2020.

Please note, that due to the large demand in grant applications POP UP HOMES has been inundated and have limited appointments available.

We look forward to hearing from you, our entire team wishes your friends and families a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Shanyn, Wayne & The Team,
Pop Up Homes
“Passionate about People, Lifestyle & Affordable Living”

How did Christmas start?

The middle of winter has long been a time of celebration around the world. Centuries before the arrival of the man called Jesus, early Europeans celebrated light and birth in the darkest days of winter.

Many peoples rejoiced during the winter solstice when the worst of the winter was behind them and they could look forward to longer days and extended hours of sunlight.

The Origin of Christmas Tree

Germany is credited with starting the Christmas tree tradition as we now know it in the 16th century when devout Christians brought decorated trees into their homes.

Some built Christmas pyramids of wood and decorated them with evergreens and candles if the wood was scarce. It is a widely held belief that Martin Luther, the 16th-century Protestant reformer, first added lighted candles to a tree.

Source: history.com

Benefits of Small Houses

Pop Up Homes range of tiny houses and small homes have several advantages over their larger counterparts.

Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy when “going tiny:”

– Standard home sizes are generally from 100 – 500 square meters, while tiny homes are generally 37 –58 square meters.

– Less square meters means less to maintain! It also means less clutter and a deeper commitment to minimalism. And of course, little of no MORTGAGE.

The original intent – “living debt-free” or as close to it as possible – is a beneficial aspect of tiny home living. The tiny home movement has largely spawned from this benefit alone. Many people live paycheck to paycheck, and not having a mortgage frees them up to enjoy more of life.

Pop Up Homes offers 3 styles of small homes, each unique in their own right, they are very adaptable and customisable, they are the perfect downsize solution. Additionally, maintenance and investment costs are cheaper than a traditional home as well as a general reduction in overhead costs such as utilities.

There is such a multitude of benefits that come from downsizing to a Pop Up Home – affordability, freedom and customisation among the many.

Pop Up Homes Features and Benefits

Interested in a Pop Up Home? Talk to our experienced team with regards to the wide range of features and benefits on offer.

Having delivered a wide range of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom homes right across Queensland, our team are very experienced dealing with local councils and their respective by-laws including approvals and certifications.

All Pop Up Homes include:

Double glazed aluminium windows with flyscreens
Double Glazed aluminium casement door with glass panel
Quality PVC floor covering throughout
Lights, power points, power board and safety switch
Plumbing and Sanitary fittings
Photoelectric hard-wired smoke detectors as per Australian Standards

All Pop Up Homes Kitchens include:

Gloss cabinets and drawers
Polished stone Benchtops
Double stainless-steel sink & flick mixer

All Pop Up Homes Bathrooms include:

900 x 900 Shower cubicle
Toilet suite
Vanity cabinet with basin and flick mixer
Mirrored shaving cabinet
Towel rails

December 11, 2020

The Fraser 2 Bedroom Granny Flat with Deck and Patio

Queensland Regional and Homebuilders Grant

By VMA DEVGranny Flat, Pop Up Homes News, Small Home

GET $45,000 in GOVERNMENT GRANTS for a limited time only. BE QUICK, time is running out.

Why is now the best time to build a Pop Up Home? You can get up to $45,000 In Government Grants.

HOMEBUILDER GRANTS ENDS on the 31st of December 2020:

What does this mean?

All Homebuilder grants must be submitted to the Treasury by close of business on the 31st of December 2020
You must have signed a building contract by the 31st of December
You must have paid your deposit
To do a building contract we must have, done your floor plans, site plans, and quote, this takes on average one full week
You can use your homebuilders grant as a progress payment if your stumps are installed early. There is limited space available for the installation of your stumps.

DON’T LEAVE IT UNTILL ITS TO LATE the 31st of December is approaching FAST.

The Australian Government has announced $25,000 new Home builders grant and yes you can also get the FIRST HOMEOWNERS Grant of $15,000 as well.

If you live in Regional Queensland, you are entitled to an additional $5,000 Regional Grant.

That is a total of $45,000 in grants towards your Pop Up Home.

The average price for a Pop Up Home in South East QLD is $85,000 Including council approvals.

Are you eligible for the Queensland regional and homebuilders grant?

Eligibility:

1. You are a person and not a company or trust

2. You are 18 years or older

3. You are an Australian Citizen

4. If you are single your 2018 – 2019 taxable income must be less than $120,000

5. If you are a couple your 2018 – 2019 taxable income must be less than $200,000

6. You must enter into a building contract between the 4th of June and the 31st of December

7. The building must not exceed $750,000. (there is no minimum build price set)

8. Construction must commence within 3 months of the contract date

For more information Please contact Shan on 0407121556 or Visit our website at www.popuphomes.com.au

Please visit the below link for the fact sheet on the Homebuilder’s Grant:

Please visit the below link for the Eligibility tester for the first home owners grant:

November 19, 2020

Pop Up homes Advantages and Benefits

By VMA DEVGranny Flat, Kit Home, Small Home, Tiny Home

A Pop Up Home can be an affordable instant source of extra income; a clever downsizing option; comfortable accommodation for adult children or elderly parents; or a convenient home office, while increasing the total value of your property.

Adding a Pop Up Home investment not only increases the value of a property but also provides positive rental returns. Retirees are now opting to downsize into a Pop Up Home leaving their larger home to rent out or for their children to live in.

A Pop Up Home is an ideal solution for young singles to have their own space while allowing them to save to buy their own home. It has all the workspace they need with the convenience and cost savings of being just meters from home.

The Keppel 37 SQM 1 Bedroom

The team from Pop Up Homes, will sit down with you and discuss your requirements and help design your floor plan and achieve your goals.

Pop Up Homes will also help with your council approvals and certification as part of an affordable service that Pop Up Homes provide to customers.

All Pop Up Homes include:

Double glazed aluminium windows with flyscreens
Double Glazed aluminium casement door with glass panel
Quality PVC floor covering throughout
Lights, power points, power board and safety switch
Plumbing and Sanitary fittings
Photoelectric hard wired smoke detectors as per Australian Standards

All Pop Up Homes Kitchens include:

Gloss cabinets and drawers
Polished stone Benchtops
Double stainless steel sink & flick mixer

All Pop Up Homes Bathrooms include:

900 x 900 Shower cubicle
Toilet suite
Vanity cabinet with basin and flick mixer
Mirrored shaving cabinet
Towel rails

For more information on Pop Up Homes, please call for more information on:1300 121 556

Would you like to know more about council regulations?

Click Here – Secondary Dwellings Granny Fats And Council Rules And Regulations

April 27, 2020

ANZAC Day

By VMA DEVMiscellaneous

ANZAC day is fast approaching. On the 25 of April is one of Australia’s most important national occasions.

For the first time in Australia’s history, due to the COVID-19 restrictions our communities will not be able to pay our respects to the ANZAC spirit in public.

However, this does not mean we can’t show our respects in the safety of our homes.

The team at Pop Up Homes will be doing a “light up the dawn on ANZAC day”.

You can too; simply stand at the end of your driveway, balcony or living room at 6 am on Saturday the 25th of April and play a digital recording of the dawn service.

Go to Light Up the dawn webpage here and there will be a button on the page that says, “PLAY YOUR SERVICE HERE”.

This will play a digital recorded service:

• Acknowledgement of country

• The Ode – RSL Queensland president Tony Ferris

• The last Post

• A minute’s silence

• Reveille

• The National Anthem

On behalf of the Pop Up Homes team, we thank our ANZACS and military services for everything they have done for us

Lest We Forget

ANZAC monuments in park — ANZAC 25th of April 2020

April 24, 2020

tiny home on steel footings sitting in cleared land

Top 10 areas in Australia

By VMA DEVFinance, Queensland Regulations

Whether you’re getting a foot in the door, in the housing market or a veteran investor. It pays to have quality insight in areas that are tipped to boom around Australia.

What factors can make a property market boom?

There are a few factors that can make the property market boom. The biggest factor is the State Governments spending on infrastructure, such as public transport, hospitals, universities and roads.

The Queensland Government “state infrastructure plan” outlines the Queensland Government strategic direction for planning. Prioritising the investment and delivery of infrastructure that supports growth, enables economic development and create jobs.

Source: State Infrastructure Plan (QLD Govt)

The Queensland state infrastructure plan is investing $49.5 billion over the next four years to boost the Queensland infrastructure. Not only is this good for the housing market but it’s beneficial for our economy.

As mentioned in the “Queensland state infrastructure plan” the plan for 2019-2020 is to allocate $12.9 billion for expenditure on public infrastructure. Supporting an estimated 40,500 jobs.

Queensland state infrastructure plan mentioned that about 60 per cent of the capital program and 25,500 of the jobs supported are outside the Greater Brisbane area.

Transport projects will improve traffic flow and relieve congestion, enhance public transport services, and increase the productivity and efficiency of freight around the state.

Critical infrastructure that ensures current and future generations of Queenslanders have access to world-class health and education services. Will be provided through programs such as Enhancing Regional Hospitals and the Building Future Schools Fund.

The government will continue investing in regions to ensure all Queenslanders can access the frontline services they rely upon. To ensure Queensland remains an attractive place to live and for businesses to invest in

Top 10 property hotspots around Australia

According to “Hotspotting”, these are the top 10 property hotspots around Australia.

Sunshine Coast, Queensland.
Marion, South Australia.
Bendigo, Victoria.
Moreton Bay Region, Queensland.
Stirling, Western Australia.
Darebin, Victoria.
Port Adelaide Enfield, South Australia.
Mackay, Queensland.
Joondalup, Western Australia.
Latrobe Valley, Victoria.

Sunshine Coast, Queensland.

Located: 100km north of Brisbane, stretching 55km from Caloundra to Noosa.
May suit: Retirees, but growth is likely to be seen in the number of younger people.
Strong performers: Maroochydore south to Caloundra. Noosa heads the local unit market and has had the highest unit growth in the nation at 24% so far in 2019. While Golden Beach and Warana are up 15%. Median house prices in the area have also grown in the past year (October 2018 to October 2019), particularly in Eumundi (+26%), Sunshine Beach (+15%), Twin Waters (+15%) and Wurtulla (+15%).
Property profile: There are still locations with median house prices below $500,000 in Caloundra West, Kawana and Nambour. The Noosa property market is making a comeback, with particular interest from Sydney and Melbourne investors, according to Hotspotting. Vacancy rates are well below 3% across the Sunshine Coast.
Local economy: Economy expanded from its three dominant sectors – tourism, retail and construction – into information technology, clean-tech (otherwise known as clean technology, which is a term used to describe products or services that are environmentally friendly), creative industries, aviation and education.
Projects boosting capital growth prospects include The new University Hospital, the Maroochydore CBD project, the Sunshine Coast International Airport to be completed in 2020 and ongoing upgrades to the Bruce Highway.

Moreton Bay Region, Queensland

Located: Around 50km north of the Brisbane CBD.
May suit: Investors looking for affordable prices, low vacancies and high rental yields.
Strong performers: Suburbs that recorded good price growth in the past year included Woody Point (+8%), Strathpine (+7%) and Bray Park, Burpengary East, Murrumba Downs, Narangba and Petrie were all up by around 5%.
Property profile: Most of the area’s suburbs have median house prices below $500,000 and several in the $300,000s. There are still large amounts of vacant land to support rapid population growth.
Local economy: The Caboolture area, in particular, has changed in recent decades from a former agricultural centre and timber-led industry into an urban village. Moreton Bay’s major centres all have fairly easy access to the Brisbane CBD, Brisbane Airport and major transport routes.
Projects boosting capital growth prospects include New University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) Moreton Bay campus (at Petrie) to open in 2020, Moreton Bay Rail Link, North East Business Park and the proposed Caboolture West Master Plan, a large-scale development which could accommodate around 70,000 residents.

Mackay, Queensland

Located: Around 950km north of Brisbane in Central Queensland, near the Whitsunday Islands.
May suit: Investors and first home buyers looking for housing affordability and job opportunities.
Strong performers: Hotspotting said positive property trends have included strong median house price growth over the past year in Mt Pleasant (+21%), Sarina (+15%) and West Mackay (+13%).
Property profile: Mackay had the strongest house price growth of any region in Queensland in the year to March 2019, and vacancy and unemployment rates are falling. Houses are selling in around 70-80 days or faster, compared to around 200 days (and even over 300 in some cases) in 2016, according to Hotspotting. The resources sector is capable of causing volatility in this market.
Local economy: The property market in Mackay was impacted by the mining bust but is now recovering. The local economy is diversifying from being heavily driven by mining for employment, as in the past, to other sectors such as construction, logistics, agribusiness and tourism (being located fairly close to the Whitsunday Islands).
Projects boosting capital growth prospects include Qantas’ pilot training academy, construction of the Mackay Ring Road, around $1.3 billion in funding for road infrastructure upgrades in the Mackay region between now and 2022 and the rebuilding of Cyclone Yasi-impacted Lindeman Island resort, which is in the Mackay local government area.

Pop Up Homes is your solution

for an affordable granny flat, not only for investment purposes to increase the value of your property but for your parents, grandparent and adult children that are wanting to live closer to their family or saving for their first home, while providing that privacy that we all need. We offer 2 sizes; – 37 square metres and a 58 square metre with 4 different styles.

If you would like to know more about Pop Up Homes and investments, read this: Why are Granny Flats becoming more and more popular than buying a conventional house

Sources:

Canstar

Hotspotting

Department of State Development, Tourism and Innovation

Queensland state infrastructure plan

February 24, 2020

small / tiny home installed into backyard bathed in morning sunshine and cool shade

The Benefits Of Downsizing

By VMA DEVFinance, Granny Flat, Kit Home, Small Home, Tiny Home

There is a trend in Australia that is taking hold, gone are the days of “bigger is better”. The younger Australian generations are looking more into Small Homes for affordability. The average size for a Small Home is between 30 square metres and 40 square metres of living space.

As mentioned in these articles from Pop Up Homes:

What Is The Tiny House Movement That Every Australian Is Talking About?

Affordable Housing Solution

While the older generations of Australians no longer need that “big” home, their kids are mostly all grown up and moved on with their lives and have their own families. This gives the older generations of Australians a chance to downsize and unlock equity to live a better retirement, go travelling and live a comfortable life without worrying about finances.

There are other reasons to downsizing as well, sometimes you’re being forced to downsize because you might have lost your job or need to relocate or other life-changing events. Downsizing has many benefits, these include saving money on power and electrical, upkeep and maintenance and smaller workloads typically associated with larger homes. All these benefits sum up a much more enjoyable and stress-free life.

As mentioned: Freshome, The Balance

Save money on frivolous living:

Let’s be serious the more space you have in your home the more you feel like you need to fill every nook and cranny with materialistic objects to make it a home. One of the benefits to downsizing your home is that you don’t need to fill every space with objects, Save money rather than waste money on electronics, electrical appliances, furniture and small household items that are space fillers and dust collectors. Downsizing to a Small Home will not only help you prioritise your life, but it will make you bring only the necessary items to your new small home.

Enjoying the benefits of downsizing:

Many homeowners that own a “big” home agree that living in a “big” home can be stressful with upkeep, cleaning, maintenance, furnishing, outdoor upkeep and the cost to run all these factors can lead to a stressful home. Downsizing is a great option and can be the first step to streamlining your life. You will be surprised that reducing your daily chores on maintenance will free up your time for activities that you want to do, spending time with family, getting more rest, going travelling and SAVING money.

Save on energy costs when downsizing your home:

We all know the cost of electricity when trying to keep your “big” house cooler in the summer or warm in the winter. It costs a lot to run a “big” house when you start adding up the bills. Downsizing will give you the added benefit of reducing your carbon footprint while enjoying the savings in a lower power and water bill.

Downsizing can free up your lifestyle for travelling:

Reduce bills, and unlocking your equity, Presto you have that extra spending money to go on those trips you have dreamed of going but couldn’t because of money tied up in your “big” house.

Downsizing can open a new chapter in your life:

For many homeowners downsizing their home can be a new chapter in your life. Whether your kids have finally left the nest to live their own lives or have suffered a loss from a spouse or close roommate. Downsizing can represent a way to start a new life in a new home.

Splurge on a few key furniture pieces for your small home:

Many people that consider downsizing think that they can’t make their home fabulous, think again! Some of the greatest Small Homes are ones that have style and creative uses of space and proportions. Splurge on a few key pieces like a dynamic coloured couch that draws attention to your décor and not the size of your room. There are many space-saving furniture ideas that people have come up and for you to explore in your new small home.

A simplified lifestyle will help keep you out of debt

Living a simple stress-free life is what most people whelm to have or do, Less debt, less stress, less maintenance yet still room for family and friends.

We speak to a lot of our customers that have downsized into a pop up home and they say, “life could not be better” Downsizing does not mean that you are missing out on anything, you are gaining a life, often debt-free.

As mentioned: Freshome, The Balance, Pop Up Homes

February 10, 2020

Applying for a Queensland home owner grant for a tiny or small home

How does the Queensland first home buyers grant work?

By VMA DEVFinance, Queensland Regulations

Every state and territory in Australia has its own first homeowner’s grant, each state has its grant amounts and requirements. Queensland is the most generous offering up to $5000 more than NSW, SA and Victoria.

At the start of the new millennium in July, marks the year that owning a home become significantly more accessible in Australia. In July 2000 the Australian government introduced the first homeowner’s buyers grant. This nationwide initiative that was introduced to offset GST and make purchasing a home more affordable for Australian citizens.

Source: echoice.com.au

What is the first home owner grant in Queensland?

The first homeowners grant is an initiative by the Queensland government, to make it easier for eligible individuals, couples and families to own their first home. You can get $15,000 towards buying or building your new house, unit or townhouse as long as it is valued less than $750,000. The grant is paid per new home, not to each of the applicants for the same home.

What is the criteria to become eligible for the first homeowner’s buyers grant?

To be able to get the first homeowners grant you must be,

At least 18 years of age.
Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident. (or applying with someone who is)
You or your spouse must not have previously owned property in Australia that you lived in.
You must be buying or building a new home. A new home is either a house, unit or townhouse that has never been occupied as a place of residence or sold as a place of residence.
You may use the first homeowner’s buyers grant on a *substantially renovated home including the land it’s situated on. There is a criterion that needs to be met before the release of the grant.

It must be substantially renovated before you buy it.
Must not have a been lived in since the renovation.
- The seller:

Must be registered for GST and be selling the home in the course of their business.
The seller must give you a tax invoice that shows the GST component of the home purchase price.
Must give a statement that confirms the house has not been occupied or sold since renovation.

*Substantial renovations definition: A substantial renovation is when all, or most, of the structural or non-structural components of the building, are removed or replaced. Most of the rooms in the building must have been affected, and the renovations must have affected the building as a whole for it to be considered a substantial renovation.

You must live in your new home as the principal place of residence within 12 months of the completed transaction and live there continuously for 6 months.
The value of the new house and including the land must be less than $750,000.
Must be buying in Queensland.
The new home cannot be in a family trust.
You must not receive financial help to build or buy your new home, from a related person who also will regularly stay in the home.
Unless you are an owner-builder, you must have signed a contract to buy or build your first home before applying.

When do you get your first homeowner’s grant?

When you’re are eligible for the first homeowner’s buyers grant, you will receive the homeowners grant once you have;

Begin building a new home

Signed a building contract for your new home.
Put down a deposit for a block of land. This must be done before signing the building contract.
Registration statement that identifies the applicants as the registered owners.
Final inspection certificate.
Valuation notice.
Rates notice.

Buying a new home

Contract signed and dated by the seller and applicants.
Final inspection certificate.
Registration statement that confirms the applicant as the registered owners of the new home.
Statement from the seller confirming that the property hasn’t been previously been occupied or sold as a place of residence.
Stamped and lodged form 1 transfer.

Please note that that your application submission must occur within 12 months of the new home completion, and the final inspection report delivery.

Did you know?

Pop Up Homes are not only granny flats; our homes can also be used as a main dwelling. Additionally, you can use a Pop Up Home for your first homeowner’s buyer grant as you will be building a new home, as long as you have your block of land before signing the builders contract you will be eligible for the first home owners buyers grant.

Pop Up Homes have 3 modern styles to choose from and come in 2 sizes. The size ranges from 37 square metres to 58 square metres. The 3 modern styles to choose from include,

The Keppel 1 bedroom 37 square metres, Price starts from $39,990.
The Fraser 2 bedroom 58 square metres, Price starts from $49,990.
The Moreton 3 bedroom 58 square metres, Price starts from $51,990.

A Pop Up Home is an affordable solution for the young and old and a good way to get your foot in the door in the housing market.

Contact Pop Up Homes on 1300 121 556 now for your free consolation with one of our Pop Up Home specialists.

https://popuphomes.com.au/why-are-granny-flats-becoming-more-and-more-popular-than-building-a-conventional-house/

Sources: echoice.com.au / blackk.com.au / qld.gov.au

January 13, 2020