uni, if you can please show me what houses you are purchasing which provide a NET position of 5% i'd love to see it. after rates, taxes, insurance, management and maintenance i think you may struggle. and interest rates will likely average say 7% over the LIFE of the mortgage. i think you should recheck your calcs. FYI my rent has not changed in 3 years, and the dwelling i live in would provide a gross yield of sub 4%. after costs, the owners would be lucky to see 2% return (before interest). why would i buy?
