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Location vs Size - What Matters More in Property Investments

It’s an age-old question when it comes to investing in property: should I choose a property based on location or size? In an ideal world, we would have both, but soaring property prices and lack of space often make this unobtainable. So, should you opt for a smaller property in a prime location, or go for a bigger unit off the beaten track? We’ll tell you why each factor is important so that you can balance your options and decide what is best for you. Why Is Location Important for Property Investments? Generally, location matters more when it comes to investing in property. Properties in developed locations are closer to amenities, transportation, and job opportunities, which naturally increases appeal for both buyers and renters. Investing in a good location is also a safer bet because properties in a good neighbourhood are less susceptible to price fluctuations and more likely to hold their value. And they are always in demand so you will likely avoid long listing times when reselling or renting it out. Features of a Good Location If you’re considering the location of a property and whether it’s the right investment (based on this location), consider these six factors. Accessibility - Is the property close to public transport or major highways? Amenities - properties closer to shops, restaurants, and schools are ideal. Employment opportunities - plenty of jobs in the area (and it’s easy enough to commute to job locations) is a drawcard. Safety - Areas with an established, safe, community and low crime rate contribute to a strong investment location. Future development - Any plans for future projects (amenities/public transport) can influence property value growth. Resale potential - Is the property likely to maintain its value and have good potential for resale down the line? But What About Size? The general rule of thumb when it comes to property investment is that a smaller property in a popular location will perform better than a large property in a less desirable area. But, there are some cases where size could be beneficial. Larger properties on bigger plots of land offer more space and flexibility, which may be a priority for families or people seeking a quieter lifestyle. More space means more opportunities for development or expansion - whether it be extra bedrooms, larger living areas, or add-ons like home offices. These can all help to increase a property’s value. Having a larger outdoor area is attractive for buyers/renters with children or pets, or for those who enjoy relaxing and entertaining outside. Does Location or Size Matter More in Townsville? In Townsville, QLD, investing in a well-located property is your best bet for success. The city is emerging as one of the fastest-growing property markets in Australia and house prices have seen a consistent increase for a number of years. It is also attracting a wide-range of people - including first-time buyers, retirees, and families looking for holiday homes - and its great weather, stunning views, and good quality of life means the property market won’t be slowing down any time soon. Townsville is undergoing major developments with a $251 million port expansion, renewable energy initiatives, and more schools being built and refurbished. Where Should I Invest Property in Townsville? So, where are the best locations in Townsville to buy and invest? North Ward: One of the most popular areas in Townsville thanks to the beach, amenities, and potential for future developments. It is home to the bustling Strand promenade and quieter Castle Hill, offering a mix of properties right in the heart of the city. Annandale: More family-friendly than North Ward, but still just a short drive away from the city. It is a leafy suburb with good schools, parks, and a safe neighbourhood. Alligator Creek: Alligator Creek is emerging as Townsville’s semi-rural hotspot, with rising prices, new acreage estates, and strong lifestyle appeal. It offers space and privacy with growth potential, though infrastructure and commute remain key considerations. Mount Low: Offers more affordable properties within a rapidly developing suburb. You can find larger units which are close to amenities, so you get the best of both worlds. John Munro offers house and land packages in Townsville that offer a balance between location and size. We work closely with buyers and investors to simplify the process of building a new property, without compromising on build quality, style, and community. Get in touch with our team to learn more about our house and land packages or new home build services in Townsville.

New Builds in QLD - Government Grants and Incentives

Buying a new home is a huge milestone. To make homeownership more achievable for Queenslanders, the state government has launched grants and incentives to reduce the upfront cost of purchasing a home. Here’s what aspiring home owners need to know about the available government schemes offered in Queensland in 2025. First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) The First Home Owner Grant provides a lump sum of $30,000 to eligible first time home buyers. The grant amount can be used to offset the costs of buying or building a new build. The FHOG can be applied to off-the-plan purchases of houses and apartments, or house-and-land packages valued under $750,000. The FHOG grant amount was doubled from $15,000 to $30,000 in November 2023. During early June 2025, the Queensland Government announced that the doubled grant will be extended by another 12 months to include eligible contracts signed before 30 June 2026. The FHOG is expected to revert to $15,000 after 30 June 2026. FHOG Eligibility Requirements Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold Australian citizenship or Permanent Residency. Applicants must not have previously owned property in Australia, even as a joint owner. Built homes must be lived in for a minimum of six consecutive months within the first year of completion. Stamp Duty (Transfer Duty) Exemption Stamp duty is a tax on every property transaction. The dutiable amount is based on a percentage of the property’s price, and can make up a substantial portion of the purchase costs. Under the first home (new home) concession scheme, first-time home buyers purchasing or building a new home can claim a full concession for transfer duty. This stamp duty exemption applies to both house-and-land packages, off-the-plan builds, and new builds that have not been previously occupied. Unlike the FHOG, there is no cap on the maximum value of the property for the full concession to apply. The first home stamp duty concession for new homes is applicable to contracts signed from 1 May 2025 onwards. Here are some examples on how much first-time home buyers can save with the first home (new home) concession scheme. New home value Stamp duty savings $500,000 $15,700 $600,000 $20,200 $700,000 $24,700 $800,000 $29,200 $900,000 $33,700 $1,000,000 $38,200 Stamp Duty Concession For New Builds A stamp duty concession also applies to Queenslanders building a new home who have previously owned property. This concession applies to the first $350,000 of the new build and the general stamp duty rate applies to the balance. Applied to a new home valued at $550,000, the home concession reduces the amount of transfer duty payable by $7,175. Value of the new home $550,000 Transfer duty after home concession on the first $350,000 $3,500 Transfer duty on the remaining $200,000 $7,100 Total transfer duty after home concession $10,600 Total transfer duty without home concession $17,775 Transfer duty savings with home concession $7,175 To be eligible to claim the home concession for a new build, individuals must: Acquire the property as an individual Occupy the property as a main place of residence within 1 year of completion Not use the new build for rent or sell the property within 1 year after moving into the property There are no citizenship requirements for claiming the home concession. Boost to Buy (Shared Equity Scheme) The Queensland Government launched the Boost to Buy scheme on 1 July 2025 to help buyers purchase a home with lower deposit requirements. In the Boost to Buy scheme, the government contributes a percentage of a property’s equity (30% for new homes and 25% for existing homes) - this allows buyers to purchase the property at a 2% deposit, without the need for lender's mortgage insurance. The Boost to Buy scheme significantly lowers the upfront cost of purchasing a home, ideal for buyers who can afford regular mortgage repayments but are unable to secure a deposit. Properties that are valued under $1,000,000 will be eligible for the Boost to Buy scheme. Applicants must also not have previously owned property in Australia, and meet the annual income limit of $150,000 for individuals and $225,000 for couples. For prospective homeowners and those planning to build a new home in regional Queensland, John Munro Builder is a local home builder in Townsville with over 20 years of experience delivering quality builds that exceed our clients’ expectations. Our team works to ensure that you have the right advice for the government grants and incentives that apply, whether you’re building your first home or a dream home.

Buying A Display Home: Pros and Cons Explained

A display home is a house built specifically to showcase a builder’s designs, workmanship, and finishes in a new development. Display homes let buyers visualise the design of a new build, and are typically sold once the estate is complete. Whether you're looking to purchase a home or an investment, buying a display home is a viable option. We’ve compiled a list of the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision. Pros of Buying a Display Home Shorter wait time Building a new home takes time - depending on the complexity of the build and factors like material and labour availability, it can take anywhere from 12 months or more to complete the build. Buying a display home allows you to skip the entire waiting process for a new home and move in right away. Luxury finishes and inclusions From high-quality building materials to contemporary home designs, a display home represents a builder’s best work. Display homes often come with luxury finishes and inclusions such as premium benchtops, high-end kitchen appliances, skylights, custom cabinetry, and a cohesive interior design. Rental income Many display homes are sold with a leaseback arrangement, where the builder agrees to rent the home for a fixed period. This lease usually guarantees a higher rental income than the average market rent. The builder also covers the utility costs and maintenance while the lease is active. This arrangement has a strong appeal for investors as they can simply collect consistent income without having to find tenants or deal with property management early on. Tax benefits If the home is purchased for investment purposes and leased back to the builder, tax deductions are usually available for depreciation, interest payments, and ongoing maintenance costs. As the builder is the tenant during the leaseback period, the home is typically kept in excellent condition, resulting in fewer repairs and unexpected expenses. Future property appreciation Display homes are located in new or growing suburbs. As the area improves and more homes are built nearby, property demand can go up, increasing the home's value over time. Keeping the home, whether as an investment or your future home, can be more valuable in the long run. Cons of Buying a Display Home Lack of customisation Display homes are pre-built to a fixed design. Unlike a new build where you can choose the layout, finishes, and fixtures, a display home is already finished. If you want to change the kitchen layout or add an extra bedroom, it will need to be renovated. What you see is what you get, so consider carefully if the home meets all of your preferences. Stamp duty costs When buying a display home, stamp duty is calculated on the total purchase price. This is different to buying a house and land package for a new home, where stamp duty only applies to the land component. Located in developing areas While display homes are located in areas that are primed for future growth, they may not yet have the amenities, schools, public transport connections, or community feel of more established suburbs. If you plan to live in the home once the leaseback ends, consider current amenities and the timeline for new infrastructure. John Munro Builder has display homes in the Harris Crossing estate in Bohle Plains. We also offer a range of house and land packages in Townsville that simplify the process of buying a new home. Get in touch with our team today to learn more about our home designs, or visit our display home to see the quality builds for yourself.

Understanding the Inclusions vs. Extras in Display Homes

Visiting a display home is the best way to assess the layout, features, and overall quality of a new home design offered by the builder. However, it’s easy to get carried away when you’re browsing new display homes - it’s important to understand which of the home’s features are actually included in the base price - and which ones will cost extra. Knowing the difference between standard inclusions and optional extras can help you make a more informed decision, compare builders fairly, and avoid unexpected add-on costs later. Common Standard Inclusions for New Homes Standard inclusions are features that the builder has included in the total cost of the new home package. These inclusions will always be present in display homes to showcase what buyers can expect with a new home build. Common inclusions offered by most building companies include: Flooring or tiling Roofing and gutters installation Doors and windows Basic internal finishes such as wall painting and skirting Electrical work such as power points and lighting installations Kitchen furnishings (cabinetry, built-in appliances like stovetops or oven) Bathroom furnishings (waterproofing, toilet and shower fixtures) Plumbing work such as pipes, drains, and hot water systems Extra Features in Display Homes A display home is also used as a way to present what’s possible - it’s a chance for builders to incorporate the full extra ‘add-ons’. It means that not everything you see in a display home will be included in the basic home package. Decorative items, such as furniture and hung art, are obvious extras. However, seemingly permanent features, such as solar power units, interior design colour schemes, and premium-grade kitchen and bathroom fixtures, may be offered as extra add-ons by the builder. Identifying Standard Inclusions vs. Add-Ons in Display Homes If you’re walking through a display home, here are a few simple ways to work out what comes standard and what might cost extra: Ask for the inclusions list: Most builders will have a brochure or document that lists exactly what’s included in the base price of the home. This should be your go-to when comparing different builders or designs. Check with the on-site rep: If you see something you like (from a stone benchtop to a feature wall) ask whether it’s included or an upgrade. Take notes as you go: It’s easy to forget what you’ve seen across multiple homes. Make a note of standout features and double-check them against the inclusions list when you get home. Don’t assume everything is standard: Even items that feel permanent like a concrete driveway or window shutters are often added as extras. If it’s not listed in the inclusions, it’s worth confirming. Standard Inclusions With John Munro Builder As a trusted home builder in Townsville with over 20 years of industry experience and award-winning home designs (Housing Industry Association 2022 Awards), John Munro Builder offer a tailored set of standard inclusions for all our home designs: Split system air-conditioning Stone benchtops 4 high doors throughout Interior design services 600 x 600 tiles Fully tiled bathrooms Barrier security screens Window dressing package Luxury Italian kitchen appliances package To learn more about our home designs in Townsville, get in touch with our team today, or visit our display home in Harris Crossing, Bohle Plains.

6 Advantages of Buying A Display Home

Display homes are builders' opportunities to showcase their highest-quality builds and finishes, while promoting the new developments in the neighbourhood. A display home allows potential buyers to experience exactly how their dream home can feel if they choose the builder. However, display homes can also be bought. What most don’t realise is that while the display home acts as a display to what is on offer - display homes themselves can also be purchased. And there are plenty of benefits of purchasing a display home. Whether you’re looking to buy a house as an investment opportunity or to find your dream home, these are the advantages to consider in buying a display home. Display home vs. custom build – what’s the difference It’s important to remember that a custom-built home is not a display home. A display home is built as a “display” to prospective buyers in a new village or neighbourhood. On the other hand, a custom-built home is a display home built specifically for your needs and wants. In other words, a display home is like a demonstrator vehicle that people test drive before buying a new car (custom build). Display homes are built to showcase the building company's clean finishes, functional layout, high-quality materials, and style, to the new community. Display homes are often sold after the building company no longer requires them. Based on the display homes, custom-built homes are tailored to the buyer's lifestyle and preferences. From the layout to the materials and finishes of the house, buyers have control of every aspect of their new home. 1. Guaranteed short-term rental return If you’re an investor, display homes offer an ideal opportunity to guarantee short-term rental returns from a leaseback agreement with the builder. A leaseback agreement is an arrangement between the investor and the builder when display homes are sold. The buyer of the display home can rent the property back to the builder for a set period to continue using it for display purposes. 2. Claim tax benefits Buying a display home can offer significant tax benefits. Tax depreciation deductions are available for items and finishes in the home like flooring, window blinds, air conditioning, and kitchen appliances, saving thousands of dollars. Display homes also typically offer higher-quality yields (measurement of future income on investment) because the builder pays rent at a commercial rate instead of a residential rate. Between tax deductions and higher yield, buying a display home can offer a larger overall return on investment. 3. Skip the build process As home builders, we understand how rewarding building a home can be – however, we also know it is a process not everyone is prepared to take on. A display home allows you to buy a new home with the highest-quality materials and finishes a builder offers in a new neighbourhood without going through the time-consuming and daunting process of building your own home. 4. Be part of a new community Buying a display home offers buyers the opportunity to be part of a new community. Display homes are often located in new housing developments to promote the area for potential home builders. These new neighbourhoods are in a premium location, which attracts more home buyers and builders, creating an established community. 5. New home feel While the for-sale display home may be between one and three years old, it has never been lived in and is regularly maintained. Before the display home is sold, it is in the best interest of the building company that all the inclusions and extras, from the garden to the kitchen appliances, are in top-notch shape to showcase their work properly. 6. New home warranty In Queensland, a building warranty on new homes lasts for up to six years and six months after the build’s completion or termination of the building contract. This building home warranty allows you to submit a claim in the event of any defective work on the property at no additional cost. In addition to the new home warranty, some appliances, like ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines, in the home may still be under manufacturer warranty coverage. Choosing your Display Home At John Munro Builders, we are Townsville local’s trusted partners in building their dream homes, including our display homes. If you’re looking to buy a new home or want to invest in property, a display home may be the ideal option. Contact the John Munro Builders team today to learn more about our display homes and what we offer.

What Is the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium?

The QBCC (Queensland Building and Construction Commission) home warranty insurance is a premium paid to insure the construction work of a residential building or renovation project. A premium refers to the amount of money paid for an insurance policy to cover a variety of risks. For the QBCC home warranty insurance, the premium amount must be paid before work begins by your contractor (who collects the money from you). Any residential construction work valued over $3,300 is required to pay the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium. Understanding the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium is essential if you're building or renovating in Queensland. Know what you’re really covered for and how to avoid any penalties. What’s covered under the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium? The QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium covers the homeowner in the event of something going wrong during the building process – generally if the project is unfinished, has defects, or if the contractor disappears or passes away. You must lodge a non-completion claim if your contractor does not or can not finish the work you contracted them to do or if your contractor does not fix defects. This claim must be lodged within 3 months after the contract ends. If the QBCC accepts your claim and the building project is damaged by fire, storm, vandalism, or theft, or if the building suffers from subsidence or settlement – the claim can still be liable. Once the QBCC pays the claim, they will attempt to recover the amount they paid to finish or fix the project from the contractor. The QBCC Insurance is attached to the property for 6 years and 6 months from when the contract is signed or from when the premium is paid, even if the property is sold. This means that non-structural defects are still covered by the QBCC 6 years and 6 months after the construction work is completed even if homeowners change. How much is the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium? The QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium cost is calculated by adding the value of materials, labour, GST, and includes any associated work in your contract. Associated work can include landscaping, driveways, fences, retaining walls, hot water systems, security doors, or air conditioning. The Home Warranty Premium is paid for projects valued over $3,300, with the QBCC premium increasing in $1,000 increments over this $3,300 threshold. For example, a project with an insurable value of $4,000 must pay a premium of $214.85 and a $5,000 project is required to pay a premium of $222.00. Projects that are valued more than $150,000 must pay a QLeave Levy in addition to the Home Warranty Premium. The QLeave Levy is a portable long service leave scheme required for all construction work in Queensland. Who pays the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium? The licensed builder contracted for the project must pay the QBCC premium. The premium amount is included in the contract price, so your contractor will collect the premium amount from you and pay it on your behalf – protecting the project from defective or incomplete work and ensure commitment to the contract. If your project requires additional insurance after the standard premium is paid, you can pay it yourself without going through your contractor as the homeowner. Additional cover must be paid either within 30 business days of the contract start day or before any work is done – whichever is earlier. The QBCC Home Warranty Insurance begins once the premium is paid, the contract is signed, or when any construction work begins. What happens if the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium is not paid? If your residential construction project is valued over $3,300 and you haven’t paid the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium before any work begins – your contractor can face penalties. It is your contractor’s responsibility to calculate the QBCC premium and pay it to the QBCC – so if the premium is not paid, the contractor will face the penalties, not the homeowner. Penalties for not paying the QBCC premium include fines, demerit points, a suspended or cancelled licence, or a public record of their offences and demerit points. In the case where the contract isn’t documented properly or the contract does not have a written agreement by the homeowner – penalties can also apply. As a homeowner, you are entitled to a “cooling-off” period which allows you to withdraw from the contract within this time. If the contractor does not comply with documenting the project properly, the “cooling-off” period can be extended up to 6 months. Navigate the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium with John Munro Builders John Munro Builders specialises in building new homes, renovations, home extensions, and luxury properties in Townsville. Our multi-award winning team of builders understand the ins and outs of the QBCC Home Warranty Insurance Premium. We can help you obtain the QBCC Insurance and help you know what you’re covered for. If you’re building or renovating a home in Townsville, contact the friendly team at John Munro Builders to get started.