raider If a young person wants a 500k or 1,000k property that is up to them. Afford it and be done. CB's remark was towards people who whined about not being able to afford a house but not willing to compromise on the dwelling or location. Free stamp duty for all??? Brilliant idea. I moved up to a 550k home on my 3rd purchase. I deserve the freebie also, if not more, than the 1st home buyer. They could've easily bought my 350k home I sold. I moved up as equity increased but MOST importantly, because my family circumstances changed. This new breed of home owner thinks it's their right to own a mansion of the rank, at my expense, my stamp duty pays for these peoples plasmas and toys to outfit the home theatre lol I agree that home ownership in WA has changed dramatically. In 2004 200k got you very impressive place, now 400k gets you a 'renovators delight'. Hence, the more reason to buy a humble dwelling and move your way up. As to the Royalties for Region. I agree, waste of money. That deal was struck as a ransom by Brendon Grylis to give Liberal power prior to GFC. That deal should be massively trimmed back to suit economic conditions. I accept the regional areas have previously been shafted for infrastructure etc but now is not the time to spend on frivolous regional projects. If essential yes, or else give it a miss. US 30yr fixed loans? Are we in Aust able to do similar financial suicide?You borrow me 500k and I'll pay you 5% for 30yrs. Let's see how long your financial company lasts. That's a long time to predict economic conditions.
But back to, is 150k alot of money to live well. Yes, without a doubt.
