Investment Property Checklist
Your complete 10-step due diligence guide for buying an investment property in Australia — with free calculators at every stage.
Calculate Borrowing Power
Determine how much a lender will let you borrow for an investment property. Investment loans may have different serviceability buffers and higher rates than owner-occupier loans.
Calculate Borrowing PowerEstimate Rental Yield
Gross rental yield is your annual rent divided by the property price. A higher yield means better cash flow. Compare yields across suburbs and property types to find the best opportunities.
Calculate Rental YieldModel Negative Gearing
If the property costs more to hold than it earns in rent, the net loss (negative gearing) can be offset against your taxable income. Understand the annual cash flow impact before you buy.
Model Negative GearingCalculate Stamp Duty
Investment property purchases do not qualify for first home buyer concessions. Stamp duty is calculated at the standard rate and must be factored into your upfront costs.
Calculate Stamp DutyEstimate Total Purchase Costs
Beyond the purchase price and stamp duty, budget for conveyancing, building and pest inspections, loan fees, landlord insurance, and any immediate repairs or renovations.
Estimate Purchase CostsCompare Buying vs Renting
Sometimes renting where you live and investing elsewhere delivers a better financial outcome. Compare the long-term wealth impact of buying versus renting.
Compare Buy vs RentUnderstand Capital Gains Tax
When you sell an investment property, you pay capital gains tax (CGT) on the profit. Holding for more than 12 months gives you a 50% CGT discount. Model your after-tax return before purchasing.
Calculate CGTGet a Depreciation Schedule
A tax depreciation schedule allows you to claim deductions for the wear and tear of the building and its fixtures. This can significantly reduce your taxable income from the property.
Read Depreciation GuideCalculate Income Tax Impact
Understand how rental income, deductions, and negative gearing will affect your overall tax position. Your marginal tax rate determines the actual after-tax cost of holding the property.
Calculate Income TaxEngage Professionals
Build your team: a mortgage broker experienced with investment loans, a conveyancer or solicitor, a property manager, a quantity surveyor for depreciation, and an accountant who specialises in property investment.
Start your investment analysis
The first step is knowing how much you can borrow. Try our free Borrowing Power Calculator.
Check Your Borrowing Power