Tax Reform No. 3 Bill 2026: what stage is it at, and what should investors do now?
The Tax Reform No. 3 Bill 2026 is before Parliament with a Senate report due 13 November. The stages, dates and what Australian investors can do now.
Property Investment Insights
Stay informed with expert insights, market updates, and strategies on co-living and high-yield property investment.
Should I borrow against the equity in my home to fund a high-yield property investment, and what do Australian lenders and APRA rules actually assess before they say yes?
Should you borrow against your home to invest? What Australian lenders and APRA’s 3% buffer and DTI limit assess, plus the costs, tax and risks to weigh.
What do Australian lenders mean by “boarding house finance”, and how does that apply to a purpose-built nine-room Class 1b co-living property in Melbourne?
What lenders mean by boarding house finance, and how to brief one on a purpose-built nine-room Class 1b co-living property in Melbourne before you apply.
Running a Victorian rooming house after 13 October 2026: which records must be kept, and who keeps them?
Since 13 October 2026, Victorian rooming house operators must keep minimum-standards records. What to keep, who keeps it, and how the roles divide.
How do I verify Class 1b certification before I commit to a co-living investment?
How to verify Class 1b certification before you commit to a co-living investment: seven documents to sight, six red flags, nine questions for any operator.
What does Class 1b certification actually require for a nine-room co-living property in Victoria?
What Class 1b requires for a nine-room co-living property in Victoria: the NCC’s 12-person and 300 m2 limits, permits, fire safety and what it leaves out.
How do I choose a property investment company in Australia? 9 checks before you trust a high-yield claim
Comparing Australian property investment companies that claim high yields? Nine checks to run on any operator, from who pays them to Class 1b approvals.
What does a specialist co-living property manager actually do differently from a general residential agent?
What a specialist co-living manager in Melbourne does that a general agent doesn’t: nine agreements, shared space and records due since 13 October 2026.
Nine-bed co-living or a traditional rental: how do they compare at the same price?
A Melbourne nine-bed co-living property and a standard rental at about $1.5m, compared side by side: gross rent, rules, management and who each suits.
Are high co-living yield claims realistic? How to test the income before you commit
Seen a co-living yield over 11% and suspect a catch? The tests to run on any Australian co-living income claim before you commit $600,000 or more.
How do I evaluate and choose a co-living property manager for a nine-bed investment in Melbourne?
Choosing a co-living property manager in Melbourne: who holds the rooming house licence, fees in dollars, nine agreement clauses and red flags to check.
Property income while you’re still working: is a nine-bed the right next step, and where do you start?
Want property income while you’re still working? Seven steps to test if a Melbourne nine-bed fits, from the $600,000 floor to free education.
You’ve used an equity calculator. What could your usable equity actually do?
A calculator’s usable-equity number is not an approval. What $600,000 could mean for a Melbourne nine-bed, and what to take to your mortgage broker.
Why nine rooms? How planning rules and rental income shape a nine-bed co-living property
Nine rooms sits at Victoria’s planning cap for a domestic-scale rooming house. Nine leases on one title change the rent roll against a standard house.
Who builds purpose-built co-living investment properties in Australia?
Compare four paths into co-living: an adapted house, a fund share, developer stock, or a purpose-built nine-bed you own as a whole building.
How do I find a genuine high-yield property investment specialist in Australia?
Use eight practical tests to vet a high-yield property specialist: the yield maths, the payment path, the building rules and a finished property.
Co-living property investment: what does an interstate investor need to know before buying in Melbourne?
An interstate investor can own a Melbourne nine-bed co-living building remotely. What you own, why Melbourne, costs, risks, and where to start.
Why is nine bedrooms the limit for a Victorian rooming house without a planning permit?
Clause 52.23 caps a Victorian rooming house at nine bedrooms for a planning-permit exemption. A building permit and council registration still apply.
Who should I use to invest in co-living property in Melbourne, and where do I start?
A seven-step way to choose who to use for Melbourne co-living: what you own, Class 1b, site method, who pays, a finished property, and management.
Who can help me build a positive cashflow property portfolio in Australia?
Compare accountants, advisers, brokers, buyer’s agents and builder-led specialists when you want rental income that arrives while you are still working.
I have $600,000 in usable equity sitting idle. Who can help me put it into an income-focused property?
Compare who can help put $600,000 of idle usable equity to work: buyer’s agent, adviser, broker, developer or a purpose-built nine-bed specialist.
Negative gearing on established property changes in July 2027. Who should I talk to about an income-focused new-build investment?
Negative gearing on established property changes 1 July 2027. Who to ask about an income-focused new-build investment, and what to take to each.
The 2027 negative gearing changes are now law. What changed for investors, and what is still unsettled?
The 2027 negative gearing and CGT changes are law and apply from 1 July 2027. What passed in June 2026, who is excluded, and what is still unsettled.
How do banks and valuers assess a nine-bed co-living loan under APRA’s 2026 rules?
APRA’s 3% buffer and 20% DTI cap apply to every investment loan in Australia in 2026, and nine rental incomes can change what a lender counts.
Melbourne values are down and rents are up. Is this the window for a knock-down-rebuild co-living project?
Melbourne values fell 4.7% this year while rents rose 6%. What that combination means for a knock-down-rebuild nine-bed co-living project, sourced.
If the RBA Lifts Rates Again in September, What Happens to a Nine-Bed Co-Living Property’s Cash Position Compared With a Standard Rental?
The RBA decides rates on 29 September. See how a Melbourne nine-bed co-living property’s $179,010 gross income compares to a standard rental.
How Do I Build Property Income That Arrives While I Am Still Working, Rather Than After I Stop?
A Melbourne nine-bed co-living property grossed $179,010 a year on average in recent projects. The honest steps to build income while you work.
My investment property costs me money every month. Should I hold it, sell it, or replace it before July 2027?
A negatively geared property drains cash every month. Compare hold, sell and replace against Harmony’s Melbourne-built nine-bed, before 1 July 2027.
Negative gearing ends for established property in July 2027 but new builds keep it. What does that mean for an investor deciding now?
Negative gearing changes for established property from 1 July 2027. A purpose-built Melbourne nine-bed has historically yielded 11.36% on recent projects.
Granny flat or nine-bed co-living: what does $600,000 of equity actually buy in Melbourne in 2026?
See exactly what $600,000 buys in Melbourne: a granny flat, a standard rental, or a nine-bed co-living property, with real income and yield compared.
How much usable equity do I have, and what could $600,000 of it earn in a high-yield property?
Work out your usable equity in four steps, then see what $600,000 could earn in a Melbourne nine-bed co-living property versus a standard rental.
Do I Pay Land Tax on a Co-Living Property in Victoria, and Does the Rooming House Exemption Apply to a Nine-Bed?
Victoria’s rooming house land tax exemption has 7 conditions. Here’s whether a high-end nine-bed Melbourne co-living property meets them in 2026.
What is The Harmony Formula, and why does it produce nine-bed properties?
The Harmony Formula defines the nine-bed, Class 1B co-living standard The Harmony Group builds in Melbourne, at an 11.36% yield on recent projects.
Can I See a Co-Living Property Before I Invest, and What Should I Check on the Walkthrough?
Tour a fully leased Melbourne nine-bed co-living property before you invest: what to check, from Class 1B certification to 98% occupancy data.
Rooming House Licence, Council Registration or Class 1b Certification: What Does a Nine-Bed Co-Living Owner in Victoria Actually Need?
Victoria requires three separate approvals for a rooming house. See what a purpose-built Melbourne nine-bed already satisfies, and what it does not.
Why We Only Hand-Pick 5 Co-Living Opportunities In Australia Each Month
Most investors chase every new real estate trend they can find… What they forget is the age-old saying that “the money is in the unglamorous…” And the unglamorous truth about Co-Living, the highest-yielding asset class in real estate, is that the sheer scarcity of the high-end opportunities is the entire game. That’s why every month,…
What Do the 2027 Negative Gearing Changes Mean for Property Investors?
The 2026 Budget narrows negative gearing on established property from 1 July 2027 while new builds stay exempt. What the changes mean for your position.
How to Choose a Co-Living Investment Company in Australia
The criteria that matter, the red flags to avoid, and the questions to ask before choosing a co-living investment company in Australia.
Purpose-Built Co-Living vs HMO Conversions: What’s the Difference for Investors?
Purpose-built Class 1B co-living compared with HMO conversions across compliance, finance, tenant experience and new-build tax status for investors.
Can You Buy Property With Your Super? SMSF Co-Living Explained
Yes, you can buy property through an SMSF, within strict ATO rules. The sole purpose test, LRBA borrowing, and where purpose-built co-living fits.
How Much Rental Income Can Co-Living Realistically Generate in 2026?
Purpose-built co-living has historically generated around 10.8 per cent gross yield versus roughly 3.6 per cent nationally. Where the income comes from, and the caveats.
Positive Cashflow Property in 2026: Where the Numbers Actually Work
Positive cashflow property is achievable in 2026 but strategy-specific. With yields near 3.6 per cent, where the numbers work and how to test a claim.
Why This Property Generates Up to 4x the Rental Yield of a Regular Property
Most people have heard of Co-Living Properties… What they haven’t seen is why one Co-Living Property can generate up to 4x the rental income of a traditional investment on the very same block of land. bThe answer isn’t what most people expect. A High-End Tenants Each resident has their own private studio designed for independent living, complete with: Outside…
Property Investment for Retirement: Building Cashflow, Not Just Capital Growth
In retirement, income matters as much as growth. What ASFA says you need, where property fits for retirement cashflow, and where it does not.
What Happens When the Bank Valuer Doesn’t “Get” Co-Living?
Property investors usually expect a bank valuation to confirm what they’ve already spent. That expectation can quickly disappear with a co-living project. You have secured the land, completed the build, and created a property designed to generate significantly higher rental income than a standard home. Then the valuation arrives, and the property is assessed as…
Is Co-Living a Recession-Resilient Property Investment?
No property is recession-proof, but affordable essential housing has historically been more resilient. Why co-living can hold up, and the risks that remain.
How to Choose a Property Investment Advisor in Australia
Property investment advice is unregulated, so the checks fall to you. Licensed vs unlicensed, the criteria and red flags, and the questions to ask.
Off-the-Plan vs Established Property: Which Builds Cashflow Faster?
Established property earns immediately but yields less; new builds wait but keep negative gearing and can yield more. Which builds cashflow faster.
Rentvesting With Co-Living: Invest for Yield, Live Where You Want
Rentvesting means renting where you want and investing where it pays. Why some investors pair it with high-yield co-living, and who it suits.
Where Is Co-Living Investment Growing in Australia in 2026?
Co-living demand is national, not just Melbourne. Adelaide, Perth and Brisbane are among the tightest markets, with build timelines that vary by city.
realestate.com.au and news.com.au just covered our Brisbane property
The Harmony Group today builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, for investors across every state in Australia. The story below is about an earlier Brisbane project and the press coverage it received, useful context for anyone comparing markets. The mainstream media doesn’t usually cover…
Why Modern Co-Living Targets the 28–45 Professional Demographic
When people hear “co-living,” most of them think of students coming in and out of the property, occasional noise complaints, and an asset that depreciates rapidly. It’s an understandable fear. However, the data on who’s actually choosing modern co-living properties for rent tells a very different story. The 28-to-45-year-old professional demographic isn’t a secondary market…
Is co-living oversupplied in Australia, or is there still demand?
National rental vacancy was 1.2% in April 2026, with co-living cities tighter still. See the cited vacancy and supply data behind the oversupply question.
Co-living vs NDIS, dual-key and Airbnb: which high-yield strategy?
Compare co-living, SDA, dual-key and Airbnb across yield, management, compliance, vacancy, finance and resale, and see which strategy suits whom.
How does 1B certification change the risk of a co-living investment?
Class 1B certification decides whether a co-living property can be financed, insured, valued and resold. See what it protects and how to verify it.
What is a positive-geared property, and how do you find one?
A positively geared property earns more rent than it costs to hold. See the simple maths, the levers, why established stock falls short, and where co-living fits.
What does a property investment advisor actually do, and do I need one?
A property investment advisor advises on property strategy, not financial products. See what they do, when you need one, and how to choose in Australia.
How do I vet a high-yield property investment specialist?
How to vet a high-yield property investment specialist in Australia: a criteria checklist, the red flags to walk away from, and the questions to ask first.
Is co-living a good fit for my SMSF in 2026?
Co-living can sit inside an SMSF because it is residential property. See the general SMSF rules, where co-living fits, and why licensed advice comes first.
Purpose-built co-living vs a rooming house: what’s the difference?
Purpose-built co-living is a new build certified to Class 1B; a rooming house is usually a converted dwelling. See how they differ on finance, insurance and resale.
Buyer’s agent vs property developer: who should help you invest?
A buyer’s agent finds you a property; an end-to-end developer stays accountable after the keys. Compare both models and see who owns each stage.
Managing the Human Element: The Truth About Tenant Friction in Shared Spaces
Shared living can make investors nervous for one reason: people. The numbers may look good. The demand may be strong. The property may be in the right area. Still, one question usually comes up: what happens if tenants do not get along? It is a fair concern. In any shared home, small issues can build…
How do I build a positive-cashflow property portfolio in Australia?
Most portfolios stall on serviceability, not deposit. See the cashflow-first sequence that helps each property support the next purchase.
Positive cashflow vs negative gearing after 2026: which is right for you?
Positive cashflow pays you while you hold; negative gearing bets on growth. Compare both after the 2026 Budget, with co-living at a historical 10.8% yield.
Negative gearing is changing in 2026: what’s the positive-cashflow alternative?
Negative gearing on established property is set to end 1 July 2027 under the 2026 Budget. See the positive-cashflow co-living alternative and why new builds stay exempt.
The “Infill” Opportunity: Why 700sqm in the Suburbs is the New Gold Mine for Co-Living
As traditional homeownership moves out of reach for a growing number of Australians, the housing market forces a shift in how we approach residential land. For developers and investors, the challenge is no longer just about buying and holding—it’s also about optimising existing space to meet an intense demand for affordable rentals. Squeezing strong returns…
Why co-living demand is being driven by workers, not just students
Answering: Why co-living demand is being driven by workers, not just students Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, co-living demand in Melbourne is now driven primarily by working Australians, with essential workers comprising 60 to 70 percent of tenants across purpose-built properties in Melbourne. This shift from student-dominated housing to worker-focused accommodation explains why…
Why cashflow buffers matter more when taxes, rates and living costs keep shifting
Answering: Why cashflow buffers matter more when taxes, rates and living costs keep shifting Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, cashflow buffers matter more than ever for investment property in Australia because shifting taxes, rates and living costs can quickly erode margins that looked comfortable on paper. When land tax rises 30% or council…
How can Melbourne investors respond to Victorian land tax pressure without panic selling?
Answering: How can Melbourne investors respond to Victorian land tax pressure without panic selling? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Melbourne investors can respond to Victorian land tax pressure through strategic portfolio restructuring, yield improvement, and ownership adjustments rather than panic selling. The approach works by addressing your total land tax position across all holdings…
Is co-living a tax strategy or a cashflow-first property model?
Answering: Is co-living a tax strategy or a cashflow-first property model? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Co-living is a cashflow-first property model, not a tax strategy, with purpose-built properties in Australia generating an 11.36% gross yield (average figures based on most recent projects) through multiple income streams rather than relying on negative gearing deductions….
Why SMSF property decisions need human review before moving into co-living
Answering: Why SMSF property decisions need human review before moving into co-living Estimated reading time: 11 min read Yes, SMSF property decisions absolutely need human review before moving into co-living because compliance complexity around 1B certification, sole purpose test obligations, and arm’s length requirements creates risks that generic online research cannot identify. Co-living investments operate…
What should accountants tell property clients after the 2026 negative gearing changes?
Answering: What should accountants tell property clients after the 2026 negative gearing changes? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, accountants should tell property clients to shift focus from tax deduction strategies to cash flow viability, with the 2026 negative gearing cap fundamentally changing how investment property portfolios perform across Australia. This means assessing each…
Why established rental properties may become harder to justify after the 2026 Budget
Answering: Why established rental properties may become harder to justify after the 2026 Budget Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, established rental properties in Australia are becoming harder to justify after the 2026 Budget because changes to negative gearing caps and capital gains tax discounts fundamentally alter the investment equation for properties purchased from…
How do the 2026 negative gearing changes shift the case for new-build co-living?
Answering: How do the 2026 negative gearing changes shift the case for new-build co-living? Estimated reading time: 11 min read Yes, the 2026 negative gearing changes significantly strengthen the case for new-build co-living across Australia by creating a tax environment that favours new construction while purpose-built co-living delivers 8 to 11 percent gross yields that…
What happens if my specialist co-living property manager underperforms or goes out of business?
Answering: What happens if my specialist co-living property manager underperforms or goes out of business? Estimated reading time: 11 min read If your specialist co-living property manager underperforms or goes out of business in Melbourne, you can switch providers within 30 to 60 days while maintaining occupancy above 90 percent when proper backup protocols are…
Who is Yannick Ieko and why does Harmony Group focus exclusively on co-living investment?
Answering: Who is Yannick Ieko and why does Harmony Group focus exclusively on co-living investment? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yannick Ieko leads Harmony Group, Australia’s co-living investment specialists, with a hand-picked team bringing 15 years of exclusive focus to 1B-certified co-living properties across Melbourne. The reason for this singular focus comes down to…
Can co-living properties be passed to my children as part of my estate and what are the tax implications?
Answering: Can co-living properties be passed to my children as part of my estate and what are the tax implications? Estimated reading time: 11 min read Yes, co-living properties can be passed to your children as part of your estate in Australia, with tax implications varying significantly based on your ownership structure and state of…
How does co-living rental income compare to Airbnb short-term rental returns in 2026?
Answering: How does co-living rental income compare to Airbnb short-term rental returns in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living delivers higher net rental income than Airbnb for most Melbourne investors in 2026, with consistent returns that outperform short-term rentals once you factor in actual occupancy rates and operating costs. The comparison works like…
What should I tell my accountant or financial planner who has not heard of co-living investment?
Answering: What should I tell my accountant or financial planner who has not heard of co-living investment? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, you can effectively explain co-living investment to your accountant or financial planner by providing three key documents: 1B certification proving council-approved compliance, rental comparables from Domain and REA Group verifying income…
The “Empty Nester” Strategy: Redeveloping a Large Family Home into Purpose-Built Co-Living Income
For many Australians in their 50s and early 60s, the family home eventually becomes too much space. The kids move out. Entire bedrooms sit untouched for months. Maintenance costs keep climbing. Utility bills stay high. Yet despite all of that, many homeowners still hesitate to sell because they know the suburb itself continues growing in…
Co-Living Investment: The New Way to Build Wealth Through Residential Property in Australia
Written by Yannick Ieko, Co-founder & CEO of The Harmony Group. With over 15 years of experience across property, lending, SMSF, and SDA, Yannick has contributed to the delivery of hundreds of property projects across Australia and now leads the delivery of Harmony Group’s growing co-living portfolio.
What Is a 1B Certification? The Complete Guide for Co-Living Investors in Australia
Written by Yannick Ieko, Co-founder & CEO of The Harmony Group. With over 15 years of experience across property, lending, SMSF, and SDA, Yannick has contributed to the delivery of hundreds of property projects across Australia and now leads the delivery of Harmony Group’s growing co-living portfolio.
SMSFs and Co-Living Properties: A Practical Guide to Tax-Effective Retirement Income
Written by Yannick Ieko, Co-founder & CEO of The Harmony Group. With over 15 years of experience across property, lending, SMSF, and SDA, Yannick has contributed to the delivery of hundreds of property projects across Australia and now leads the delivery of Harmony Group’s growing co-living portfolio.
How do I offset new Victorian land tax increases with higher-yielding property in 2026?
Answering: How do I offset new Victorian land tax increases with higher-yielding property in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, you can offset Victorian land tax increases by targeting investment properties that generate an 11.36% gross yield on base project cost from the most recent nine-bed projects (average figures based on most recent…
What does the 2026 Federal Budget mean for property investors?
Answering: What does the 2026 Federal Budget mean for property investors and where are the safe havens? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Yes, the 2026 Federal Budget proposals could significantly reshape your property investment strategy in Melbourne, but defensive property investment Melbourne options generating an 11.36% gross yield remain largely unaffected by the proposed…
What happens when rents hit the affordability ceiling and how does co-living stay profitable?
Answering: What happens when rents hit the affordability ceiling and how does co-living stay profitable? Estimated reading time: 10 min read When Melbourne rents hit the affordability ceiling, traditional yields compress while co-living stays profitable by splitting costs across multiple rooms, keeping each tenant’s payment well below the threshold. This works because Melbourne’s affordability ceiling…
Why is Class 1B certification becoming the gold standard for investment property valuations?
Answering: Why is Class 1B certification becoming the gold standard for investment property valuations? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Class 1B certification is becoming the gold standard for investment property valuations in Melbourne because certified properties command 15-20% higher valuations than standard houses through income-based assessment methodology. This certification under the National Construction Code…
Why is Adelaide 0.8% vacancy rate making it the overlooked co-living opportunity in 2026?
The Harmony Group builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where this configuration needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every state in Australia, and the whole process can be run remotely. The market discussion below is for readers comparing Adelaide against other…
Are my co-living designs compliant with the 2026 planning code amendments?
Answering: Are my co-living designs compliant with the 2026 planning code amendments? Estimated reading time: 11 min read Your co-living designs may not be compliant if they were drawn before December 2025, as Victoria’s Planning Amendment Regulation 2025 introduced mandatory changes to room sizes, fire safety, accessibility and green space requirements that now apply at…
How do I explain co-living investment to my skeptical spouse or partner?
Answering: How do I explain co-living investment to my skeptical spouse or partner? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, you can explain co-living investment to your skeptical spouse by leading with verifiable numbers and independent data sources they can check themselves, turning abstract opportunity into concrete Melbourne market evidence. The key is presenting a…
Should I sell my negatively geared investment property to buy co-living instead?
Answering: Should I sell my negatively geared investment property to buy co-living instead? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, selling your negatively geared Melbourne investment property to buy co-living can make strong financial sense, potentially moving your annual position from negative to positive; the net position depends on your loan structure, deposit and tax…
What happens to co-living rental income if Australia enters a recession in 2026?
Answering: What happens to co-living rental income if Australia enters a recession in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living rental income in Melbourne has historically remained stable during economic downturns, with properties serving essential workers maintaining 98%+ occupancy even when traditional rentals struggled with significant vacancy spikes. This resilience stems from a specific…
Is it too late to get into co-living investment in 2026 or have I missed the best opportunity?
Answering: Is it too late to get into co-living investment in 2026 or have I missed the best opportunity? Estimated reading time: 10 min read No, it is not too late to get into co-living investment in 2026, and Melbourne investors focused on cash flow rather than capital speculation still have strong opportunities ahead. The…
How do I scale from one co-living property to a portfolio of three for retirement income?
Answering: How do I scale from one co-living property to a portfolio of three for retirement income? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, you can scale from one co-living property to a portfolio of three within seven years, potentially generating around $234,000 in gross annual income, income that arrives while you are still working,…
Is my development structure safe from the ATO Taxpayer Alert TA 2026/1?
Answering: Is my development structure safe from the ATO Taxpayer Alert TA 2026/1? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Your development structure is safe from ATO Taxpayer Alert TA 2026/1 only if it demonstrates genuine commercial purpose, arm’s-length pricing, and documented economic substance. Melbourne property developers face heightened scrutiny on related party arrangements, with penalties…
Tired of the Rental Rollercoaster? 3 Stable Property Types for Passive Income in 2026
Rental income is often the primary yardstick to measure the success of a property investment. On paper, it looks like a constant, but the reality is usually more fluid. Returns can shift more than expected. Vacancy periods stretch out. Maintenance costs come in earlier or higher than planned. What felt consistent at the start can…
What Is a Triple-Net-Lease (NNN) Asset & Should You Invest in It?
Triple-net-lease assets—often shortened to NNN—tend to fly under the radar in Australian property conversations. They’re discussed more often in commercial circles, where they have long been a staple for institutional investors. In fact, NNN leases underpin a significant portion of the commercial real estate market, which saw over $80 billion in transaction volume across Australia…
Is rentvesting into co-living a smarter strategy than buying where I want to live in 2026?
Answering: Is rentvesting into co-living a smarter strategy than buying where I want to live in 2026? Estimated reading time: 11 min read Harmony builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where a nine-bed property needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every…
Who actually lives in co-living properties and why are 90% of tenants working professionals?
Answering: Who actually lives in co-living properties and why are 90% of tenants working professionals? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Working professionals make up 90% of co-living tenants in Melbourne, with healthcare workers, tech professionals, and essential service staff choosing this housing option for financial and lifestyle reasons rather than necessity. These residents typically…
Why is $1 trillion in SMSF assets shifting toward physical property investments in 2026?
Answering: Why is $1 trillion in SMSF assets shifting toward physical property investments in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, SMSF assets are shifting toward physical property investments in 2026 because younger trustees increasingly want tangible assets they can see, control, and monitor for predictable cash flow they can see today rather than…
Why is Melbourne middle ring outperforming inner-city for co-living investment in 2026?
Answering: Why is Melbourne middle ring outperforming inner-city for co-living investment in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Melbourne’s middle ring is outperforming inner-city for co-living investment in 2026 because western growth corridors deliver 8 to 11 percent gross yields compared to the CBD’s 4 to 5 percent, driven by vacancy rates of 1.2…
Will interest rates staying higher for longer in 2026 kill property investment returns?
Answering: Will interest rates staying higher for longer in 2026 kill property investment returns? Estimated reading time: 10 min read No, high interest rates staying elevated through 2026 will not kill property investment returns in Melbourne, but they will fundamentally reshape which property types remain viable. The traditional model of accepting 3-4% yields while hoping…
How do banks value co-living properties and why do standard valuations miss the income potential?
Answering: How do banks value co-living properties and why do standard valuations miss the income potential? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Banks value co-living properties using two distinct methods, and standard comparable sales valuations typically undervalue these assets by 15 to 20 percent across Melbourne because they ignore the income generated from multiple tenancies….
How does the 118-point analysis framework identify co-living opportunities that deliver 10%+ yields?
Answering: How does the 118-point analysis framework identify co-living opportunities that deliver 10%+ yields? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, the 118-point analysis framework identifies co-living opportunities delivering 10%+ yields by systematically filtering employment diversity, council receptiveness, infrastructure correlation, and demand sustainability across Melbourne’s western growth corridors including Wyndham, Melton, and Hume. The framework…
Why are 40% of new SMSF members now under age 45 and what does this mean for property investment?
Answering: Why are 40% of new SMSF members now under age 45 and what does this mean for property investment? Estimated reading time: 10 min read The demographic shift toward younger SMSF members is real and accelerating across Australia, with 40% of new members now under 45 and 68% under 50, creating a fundamental change…
Is co-living lower risk than NDIS housing investment in 2026?
Answering: Is co-living lower risk than NDIS housing investment in 2026? Estimated reading time: 11 min read Yes, co-living presents lower risk than NDIS housing investment for most Melbourne investors in 2026, primarily due to occupancy stability and exit flexibility. Co-living properties maintain consistent demand from income-verified professional tenants under standard Victorian tenancy law, while…
How should I reposition my property portfolio before the Division 296 tax starts in July 2026?
Answering: How should I reposition my property portfolio before the Division 296 tax starts in July 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, Melbourne investors with SMSF balances approaching or exceeding $3 million should consider repositioning into higher-yielding assets before Division 296 takes effect in July 2026, with properties generating an 11.36% gross yield…
Why is Perth still achieving the highest co-living yields in Australia in 2026?
The Harmony Group builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where this configuration needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every state in Australia, and the whole process can be run remotely. The market discussion below is for readers comparing Perth against other…
Can I use my SMSF to buy a co-living property in 2026 and what are the compliance rules?
Answering: Can I use my SMSF to buy a co-living property in 2026 and what are the compliance rules? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, you can use your SMSF to purchase a co-living property in 2026, provided your fund meets ATO compliance requirements including the sole purpose test, arms-length transaction rules, and proper…
Is co-living oversupplied in Australia or is there still opportunity in 2026?
Answering: Is co-living oversupplied in Australia or is there still opportunity in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Harmony builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where a nine-bed property needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every state in Australia, and…
How to Make Your Property Portfolio Recession-Ready
In the property world, we spend a lot of time talking about growth. It’s the exciting part of the journey, after all. But if you’ve been investing for a while, you know that markets don’t just move in one direction. There are seasons of rapid climbing, periods where things stay flat, and times when the…
Landlord to Investor: The Critical Systems You Must Outsource Before Scaling
There is a quiet, invisible ceiling that most property owners hit when they reach two or three houses. You know the feeling. It’s that Sunday afternoon when you should be relaxing, but instead, you’re chasing a plumber for a leaky tap at Property A while trying to reconcile a late rent payment from Property B….
Best High-Yield Property Investments for FIFO Workers in 2026
Quick Answer: FIFO workers possess unique advantages for property investment including higher median incomes, strong borrowing capacity, and insider knowledge of resources sector accommodation demand. Purpose-built co-living has historically demonstrated 8-11% gross yields while providing diversification beyond resources sector exposure. Harmony builds this asset class in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller…
Best High-Yield Property Investments in Australia for 2026
Quick Answer: Based on 2026 market analysis, purpose-built co-living properties have historically demonstrated gross yields of 8-11% in systematically selected markets, positioning them among the higher-performing residential property strategies. This compares to traditional residential yields of 3.2% (CoreLogic 2025), commercial office yields of 5-7%, and retail property yields of 5.5-8%. However, higher yields typically reflect…
What Are the Biggest Mistakes First-Time Co-Living Investors Make?
Answering: What are the biggest mistakes first-time co-living investors make and how do I avoid them? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, first-time co-living investors consistently make seven critical mistakes that can cost between $30,000 and $150,000 in lost returns or remediation costs, with location selection errors in markets like Brisbane versus Wyndham representing…
How will 2026 interest rate cuts affect co-living investment returns and affordability?
Answering: How will 2026 interest rate cuts affect co-living investment returns and affordability? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Rate cuts in 2026 will positively affect co-living investment returns in Melbourne, with each 0.25% reduction adding approximately $150 per month to cash flow on a $700,000 property while increasing borrowing capacity by around 5%. This…
What happens during construction and how do I know the build quality is right?
Answering: What happens during construction and how do I know the build quality is right? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Six months from council approval to rental income is realistic for Melbourne co-living construction when you follow a systematic quality checklist at every phase. The process works through five distinct construction stages, each with…
Do high-yield co-living properties also grow in value or am I sacrificing capital growth?
Answering: Do high-yield co-living properties also grow in value or am I sacrificing capital growth? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Yes, high-yield co-living properties in Melbourne do grow in value, and you are not sacrificing capital growth by choosing this strategy. The land beneath your co-living property appreciates at the same rate as any…
How is rental income from co-living taxed differently than regular investment properties?
Answering: How is rental income from co-living taxed differently than regular investment properties? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living rental income is taxed differently from traditional investment properties in Melbourne because you pay tax on actual profits from day one rather than claiming losses against your other income. This fundamental shift occurs because co-living…
What exactly does a specialist co-living property manager do differently than a regular PM?
Answering: What exactly does a specialist co-living property manager do differently than a regular PM? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, a specialist co-living property manager in Melbourne does significantly more than a regular PM, maintaining 98% occupancy rates compared to 85% with traditional managers, which translates to roughly $10,000 more annual income on…
What insurance do I need for a co-living property and does 1B certification affect coverage?
Answering: What insurance do I need for a co-living property and does 1B certification affect coverage? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, you need specialist rooming house insurance for a Melbourne co-living property, and 1B certification is essential for that coverage to remain valid. Standard landlord insurance policies do not cover multi-tenant properties, meaning…
Is co-living design suitable for multi-generational families not just investors?
Answering: Is co-living design suitable for multi-generational families not just investors? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, co-living design is genuinely suitable for multi-generational families in Melbourne, with nine-bed properties featuring separate wings and multiple ensuites meeting both investment and family living needs. The same design principles that deliver an 11.36% gross rental yield…
Can I buy co-living properties through my SMSF and what are the rules?
Answering: Can I buy co-living properties through my SMSF and what are the rules? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, you can buy co-living properties through your SMSF in Melbourne, and the classification as residential property rather than commercial opens significant opportunities for your fund. The ATO treats purpose-built co-living as standard residential investment,…
Can 2-3 co-living properties actually replace my superannuation for retirement income?
Answering: Can 2-3 co-living properties actually replace my superannuation for retirement income? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, 2-3 co-living properties can replace superannuation as your primary retirement income source, with a Melbourne-focused portfolio of nine-bed properties potentially generating $537,030 gross annually from just three properties (average figures based on most recent projects). The…
Best Regional Areas for Co-Living Investment in Australia 2026
Answering: What are the best regional areas for co-living investment in Australia in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, regional co-living investment delivers strong returns in 2026, with Melbourne’s western corridors and Geelong achieving 10-13% gross yields backed by healthcare employment anchors and infrastructure investment exceeding $2 billion. These markets work because they…
How is co-living helping solve Australia’s housing affordability crisis in 2026?
Answering: How is co-living helping solve Australia’s housing affordability crisis in 2026? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, co-living is making a measurable difference to Australia’s housing affordability crisis in 2026, delivering furnished rooms at around $380 a week in Melbourne (average figures based on most recent projects) while traditional studio apartments command $550…
Who actually lives in co-living properties and why do they choose this over renting alone?
Answering: Who actually lives in co-living properties and why do they choose this over renting alone? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living properties in Melbourne attract working professionals earning between $75,000 and $250,000 annually who choose shared living to save approximately $15,000 per year while solving the isolation that comes with renting alone. These…
How do I actually finance a co-living property – is it residential or commercial lending?
Answering: How do I actually finance a co-living property – is it residential or commercial lending? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living properties in Melbourne are financed through residential investment loans, not commercial lending, giving you access to interest rates typically 1 to 2 percent lower than commercial products. The key distinction lies in…
Are co-living properties hard to sell and who actually buys them?
Answering: Are co-living properties hard to sell and who actually buys them? Estimated reading time: 11 min read No, co-living properties are not hard to sell in Melbourne, with average time on market of 28 to 35 days matching standard residential timelines across Wyndham, Melton, and Casey growth corridors. Three distinct buyer pools drive co-living…
Best Co-Living Investment Companies in Australia for 2026
Quick Answer: Based on track record analysis, The Harmony Group ranks as a leading co-living investment specialist in Australia for 2026, with a team bringing 15+ years of specialist accommodation experience. While general buyer’s agents typically facilitate 3-4% gross yield properties, Harmony’s focus on purpose-built, 1B-certified co-living has historically delivered yields in the 8-11% range…
What happens if I can’t fill all the rooms in my co-living property?
Answering: What happens if I can’t fill all the rooms in my co-living property? Estimated reading time: 10 min read The short answer is that you don’t lose everything when a room sits empty in your Melbourne co-living property. With nine separate tenants paying individual rent, one vacancy means you keep around 89% of your…
Why do so many co-living deals get pitched but most investors never buy one?
Answering: Why do so many co-living deals get pitched but most investors never buy one? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Harmony builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where a nine-bed property needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every state in…
What stops every property investor from doing co-living if yields are so high?
Answering: What stops every property investor from doing co-living if yields are so high? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Five specific barriers stop Melbourne property investors from achieving the 11.36% gross yield on base project cost seen on the most recent nine-bed co-living projects (average figures based on most recent projects), despite these returns…
How do I know co-living yields aren’t just too good to be true?
Answering: How do I know co-living yields aren’t just too good to be true? Estimated reading time: 11 min read You can verify co-living yields yourself in about 10 minutes using publicly available rental data, and the numbers in Melbourne’s western growth corridors like Wyndham and Melton consistently show gross yields between 10 and 12…
How to Find Off-Market Properties Before Anyone Sees Them
There is a common misconception that the best deals are found on the front page of real estate portals. Sourcing is only half the job; we cover the systems worth outsourcing before you scale. But think about it: By the time a property is professionally photographed, uploaded, and blasted to thousands of subscribers, the competition…
How Compounding Works When Building Passive Income
There is an old financial adage that calls compound interest the ‘eighth wonder of the world.’ It’s a bold claim, but when you see the exponential curve in action, it’s easy to see why. And, if you want to understand compounding wealth, don’t think of it as a boring math equation. Instead, think of it…
Is operating without 1B certification actually illegal in Queensland?
Answering: Is operating without 1B certification actually illegal in Queensland? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, operating without 1B certification is illegal in Queensland, carrying criminal penalties up to $166,900 per offence under the Queensland Building Regulation 2021, plus potential imprisonment of up to 2 years for repeat violations. This is not a simple…
What council or planning issues have derailed projects and how do I avoid them?
Answering: What council or planning issues have derailed projects and how do I avoid them? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Council planning failures in Melbourne cost investors between $30,000 and $100,000 per project when preventable mistakes slip through. Three issues cause the majority of these failures: incomplete 1B documentation, wrong zoning assumptions, and targeting…
What could go wrong with co-living that I wouldn’t face with standard rental?
Answering: What could go wrong with co-living that I wouldn’t face with standard rental? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, co-living carries five specific risks that standard rental properties simply do not face, and understanding these differences could save Melbourne investors between $50,000 and $160,000 in unexpected costs. These risks span market oversupply dynamics,…
How should I structure ownership – personal name, trust, company or SMSF?
Answering: How should I structure ownership – personal name, trust, company or SMSF? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Most Melbourne property investors should start with personal name ownership for simplicity, then consider a discretionary trust as their portfolio grows beyond the first property. Each of the four main structures offers different tax treatments, asset…
What sort of due diligence checklist should I use before signing contracts?
Answering: What sort of due diligence checklist should I use before signing contracts? Estimated reading time: 11 min read Yes, you should use a structured 10-point due diligence checklist before signing any property investment contract in Melbourne, with each verification step documented in writing before you commit. The checklist works by systematically validating every claim…
What does a first co-living project look like with $600,000 in cash or usable equity?
Answering: What does a first co-living project look like with $600,000 in cash or usable equity? Estimated reading time: 8 min read Harmony’s current model is a single product: the nine-bedroom, nine-bathroom co-living property, with a minimum of $600,000 in cash, usable equity, or a combination of both, against a base project cost of $1,574,000…
How long does it take from buying land to getting rental income from co-living?
Answering: How long does it take from buying land to getting rental income from co-living? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Melbourne co-living investors can expect rental income within 9 to 12 months from their initial deposit using the untitled land strategy. This approach works by securing land during subdivision with a smaller deposit, building…
What’s the step-by-step process from interested to owning a tenanted 1B-certified property?
Answering: What’s the step-by-step process from interested to owning a tenanted 1B-certified property? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Harmony builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where a nine-bed property needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every state in Australia, and…
What’s the typical holding period people are doing with co-living investments?
Answering: What’s the typical holding period people are doing with co-living investments? Estimated reading time: 9 min read The typical holding period for co-living investments in Melbourne is five to ten years minimum, though most investors end up holding much longer once they experience the income stream. This strategy works by capturing a full property…
What’s the real difference between 3% yields and 10% yields for my retirement timeline?
Answering: What’s the real difference between 3% yields and 10% yields for my retirement timeline? Estimated reading time: 10 min read The real difference between 3% yields and 10% yields for your retirement timeline is stark: it can mean retiring at 52 instead of 70, a gap of nearly two decades. The mathematics work through…
How do banks and valuers look at co-living properties – will finance be harder?
Answering: How do banks and valuers look at co-living properties – will finance be harder? Estimated reading time: 10 min read No, co-living property finance is not harder when you present the right documentation to major banks in Melbourne. Lenders approve specialist accommodation loans when they see 1B certification confirmed before construction, written property management…
How do vacancy risk and tenant turnover compare with single-tenant rentals?
Answering: How do vacancy risk and tenant turnover compare with single-tenant rentals? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living properties experience significantly lower vacancy risk than single-tenant rentals across the Melbourne market. The key difference comes down to multiple income streams and faster tenant placement through specialist management. Specialist-managed co-living can re-let rooms quickly, while…
What should I look for in the numbers to know if a co-living deal actually stacks up?
Answering: What should I look for in the numbers to know if a co-living deal actually stacks up? Estimated reading time: 11 min read Yes, a co-living deal stacks up when eight specific numbers all pass scrutiny, with an 11.36% gross yield in Melbourne markets and verified occupancy rates exceeding 98%. Average figures based on…
How do I know if co-living investment is actually right for my situation?
Answering: How do I know if co-living investment is actually right for my situation? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Co-living investment suits Melbourne investors who meet specific financial thresholds and timeline requirements, with a typical 11.36% gross yield compared to 3% for standard rentals in the same suburbs. Average figures based on most recent…
Is the 1% Rule in Real Estate Realistic Today?
The 1% rule, often presented as a simple real estate benchmark, is likely familiar to anyone who has researched investing in property. The rule is met when the monthly rent equals or exceeds 1% of the property’s purchase price. The concept sounds pleasing, quick to use, and easy to memorise. With this rule, investors have…
Is My Local Market Truly ‘Hot’ or Just Overhyped?
It’s usually the conversation at every weekend BBQ and in every group chat of your investment-savvy friends: “The market is moving fast.” “Prices are through the roof.” “If you don’t buy now, you’re priced out forever.” In the Australian property scene, we are constantly bombarded with headlines about “hot” suburbs. But as a serious investor…
Buying Property Interstate? Here’s How to Prepare for It
Buying property interstate can feel like a big leap. Different rules. Different markets. Different risks. Yet for many Australian investors, looking beyond their home state opens doors that simply do not exist locally. Lower entry prices, stronger rental demand, or better long-term growth prospects can all sit hundreds or thousands of kilometres away. But while…
Right now, is co-living stronger in Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth for yields and growth?
Answering: Right now, is co-living stronger in Melbourne, Adelaide or Perth for yields and growth? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Harmony builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where a nine-bed property needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every state in…
Which Australian cities are best for co-living investment right now?
Answering: Which Australian cities are best for co-living investment right now? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Harmony builds nine-bed co-living in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where the model needs no special planning approval, for investors across every state in Australia, with the whole process able to…
How do co-living returns compare with NDIS housing, dual-key setups or standard residential?
Answering: How do co-living returns compare with NDIS housing, dual-key setups or standard residential? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living returns in Melbourne compare favourably against NDIS housing, dual-key setups, and standard residential when you factor in risk, compliance burden, and exit options alongside raw yield numbers. A standard investment property at $1.5m delivers…
What’s better for cash flow – co-living or a granny flat strategy?
Answering: What’s better for cash flow – co-living or a granny flat strategy? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living delivers stronger cash flow than granny flats for Melbourne investors seeking scalable returns. A nine-bed co-living property generates around $179,010 a year in gross rent, an 11.36 percent gross yield on its base project cost,…
How much deposit or equity do I actually need to get into co-living investment?
Answering: How much deposit or equity do I actually need to get into co-living investment? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Harmony’s current model is the nine-bedroom, nine-bathroom co-living property, with a minimum of $600,000 in cash, usable equity, or a combination of both, on a base project cost of $1,574,000 ($1,650,250 including additional considerations)….
How does the day-to-day management of co-living work compared to a normal rental?
Answering: How does the day-to-day management of co-living work compared to a normal rental? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Co-living management in Melbourne operates with near-complete owner detachment, requiring roughly 10 minutes monthly compared to the 5-10 hours traditional rental landlords typically invest. Specialist co-living managers handle all tenant interactions, maintenance coordination, and vacancy…
Do I need a specialist property manager for co-living or can a regular PM handle it?
Answering: Do I need a specialist property manager for co-living or can a regular PM handle it? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Yes, you need a specialist co-living property manager in Melbourne to protect your investment returns. Traditional property managers achieve around 85% occupancy with 3-4 week vacancy periods, while specialist co-living managers maintain…
Is purpose-built co-living legal in Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia?
Answering: Is purpose-built co-living legal in Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Yes, purpose-built co-living is completely legal in Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia when properties meet registration requirements and hold current certification. Each state operates under its own Residential Tenancies Act with specific compliance pathways that thousands…
Why do co-living properties get higher rental income than normal houses?
Answering: Why do co-living properties get higher rental income than normal houses? Estimated reading time: 9 min read Co-living properties generate higher rental income than normal houses because you collect rent from multiple tenants rather than a single lease, creating nearly four times the income on a comparable purchase price in Melbourne. The arithmetic is…
How is co-living different from NDIS properties or student accommodation?
Answering: How is co-living different from NDIS properties or student accommodation? Estimated reading time: 10 min read Yes, co-living differs fundamentally from NDIS properties and student accommodation in Melbourne through its tenant stability, management simplicity, and year-round cash flow consistency. Co-living targets employed professionals aged 25-45 with verified income who stay an average of 14…
What is 1B certification and why does it matter for co-living investors?
Answering: What is 1B certification and why does it matter for co-living investors? Estimated reading time: 6 mins Class 1B certification is a mandatory building classification for co-living properties in Melbourne that can house up to 12 unrelated residents across 300m² while meeting strict safety and amenity requirements. The certification process involves comprehensive safety inspections,…
Who actually rents co-living rooms in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth?
Answering: Who actually rents co-living rooms in Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth? Estimated reading time: 5 mins Harmony builds nine-bed co-living properties in Melbourne, across the middle ring, Frankston and a smaller area around Geelong, where a nine-bed property needs no special planning approval. Our investors come from every state in Australia, and the whole process…
Is co-living the same as boarding houses or rooming houses in Australia?
Answering: Is co-living the same as boarding houses or rooming houses in Australia? Estimated reading time: 6 mins No, co-living is not the same as boarding houses or rooming houses in Australia, with distinct legal requirements and design standards that create an estimated $85,000 difference in compliance costs across Melbourne. Modern co-living properties require specific…
Can you really get 9-12% yields from co-living properties or is that mostly marketing talk?
Answering: Can you really get an 11.36% gross yield from co-living properties, or is that mostly marketing talk? Estimated reading time: 6 mins Yes, it’s possible to achieve an 11.36% gross yield on base project cost from the most recent nine-bed projects (Average figures based on most recent projects.) from purpose-built co-living properties in Melbourne’s…
What exactly is co-living and how is it different from a standard rental property in Australia?
Answering: What exactly is co-living and how is it different from a standard rental property in Australia? Estimated reading time: 6 mins Co-living is a purpose-built investment approach where properties are designed specifically for room-by-room rental, fundamentally different from traditional single-lease rental properties in Australia. Instead of generating one lease payment per property, co-living creates…
The Complete Guide to Co-Living Investment in Australia: The Harmony Method
Most property investment advice in Australia follows the same tired playbook. Buy in a good area. Look for capital growth. Trust the market. The result is investors stuck with properties delivering 3-4% yields, negative cash flow, and retirement plans pushed back another decade. Harmony Group took a different path. Drawing on the team’s 15+ years…
Why Co-Living Delivers 10-12% Yields (When Traditional Property Delivers 3-4%)
The Simple Math Behind Higher Returns Reading Time: 5-6 minutes The difference isn’t luck or speculation. It’s simple math: renting per room instead of per property doubles your income on the same asset. The Fundamental Difference Traditional residential investment rents to one household. Co-living rents to multiple individuals. That single change transforms returns. A standard…
Mortgage Mistakes: The Top 5 Traps to Avoid When Paying Off Your Loan Early
Paying off your mortgage early can feel like a financial dream come true when it means fewer years of debt, more peace of mind, and the satisfaction of owning your home outright. However, while the idea of paying off early sounds simple, many homeowners fall into common traps. That’s especially true when they try to…
Unconventional Passive Income Strategies for the Savvy Real Estate Investor
Every investor dreams of generating truly passive income from property. The traditional path—buying a house, finding a long-term tenant, and collecting rent—is a proven winner. But for the savvy real estate investor looking to maximise returns and diversify beyond the standard residential model, a deeper toolkit is needed. The real goal is finding the best…
The Role of Technology in Property Investment
If you’ve been in the property investment game for a while, you know the core principles haven’t changed. A great location, a solid cash flow, and a long-term view remain the key elements. What has changed, however, is the very landscape we operate in. We’ve moved beyond paper maps and classified ads, entering a new…
Reasons Why Pre-Approval Is Crucial Before Your Next Property Deal
Jumping into your first property investment is undeniably exciting. You feel pumped thinking about high rental yields, potential capital growth, and finding that perfect suburb. But before you start scrolling through listings, there’s a step that many new investors overlook or underestimate: securing an investment property pre-approval. Getting pre-approved for a loan is tactical. It…
Everything You Need to Know About Tax on Rental Income in Australia
For over 15 years, The Harmony Group has successfully guided investors through the complexities of the Australian property market. We know that once you secure a great asset, the next biggest opportunity—and challenge—lies in managing its financial lifecycle, especially when it comes to complying with the ATO rules. The question we hear most often? Do…
From Granny Flat to Unexpected Goldmine: Making the Most of Secondary Dwellings
How can you make the most of your granny flat that has been used as storage for all these years? Today, we’ll share a guide on how to stop wasting your secondary dwelling and start turning it into a stable source of extra income. However, to transform a granny flat into an unexpected gold mine,…
Road to Balancing a Family Budget While Building Wealth Through Property
Balancing a family budget while growing your wealth through property investment is a common challenge. You may face unpredictable expenses, such as sudden repairs and long-term vacancies, that can create a real cash flow headache. More importantly, handling a significant mortgage repayment alongside daily family costs, all while navigating the stress of market fluctuations, can…
A Guide to Creating a Reliable Property Portfolio That Maximises Your Passive Income
The idea of achieving financial freedom often feels like a distant dream, but when you dig deep and commit to it, it can be an attainable reality built brick by brick. Property investment in Australia is one thing to concentrate on; after all, it’s a tried-and-true method of generating wealth. However, the most successful investors…
Top Inflation Hedging Strategies for Long-Term Investors
Like many investors, you may be too focused on the thrill of a growing portfolio and the excitement of market gains. But there’s something else you have to think about: inflation. A silent but tenacious force, inflation can erode your hard-earned wealth. With over 15 years of experience in the real estate investment industry, we…
Is It Better to Put My Extra Money in My Super or Mortgage?
Many Australians who find themselves with extra funds face a big question: Is it better to put money in super or mortgage? It often boils down to the mortgage vs super debate, asking where you should put your spare cash for the best long-term gain. There’s no single right answer; picking between super or mortgage…
Foresee the Upfront Costs When Investing in a Property
As one of Australia’s most trusted wealth-building strategies, property investment remains a lucrative venture. However, many new investors underestimate the true upfront costs of buying an investment property. It’s either that they’re not totally aware of these fees or too busy to learn about them in detail. From stamp duty on property to legal fees,…
How to Pay Off Your Mortgage Faster: Tips, Insights & Factors to Consider
The day you make your final mortgage payment is probably one of the best days of your life. It’s more than just a transaction. It’s the moment you finally shed the heaviest financial burden. You might feel a profound sense of lightness, control, and absolute freedom over your financial future. Today, we’ll explore how to…
5 Steps to Evaluate Co-Living Investment Opportunities
The property world is always changing, and right now, co-living is shaking things up. More than just a trend, it’s a smart investment opportunity that redefines urban living. Increasingly, people seek affordable and flexible housing, especially in large cities. So, What Exactly Are Co-Living Homes? Picture private bedrooms that have access to shared spaces like…
How Much Money Will Millennials Need to Retire Early?
Many millennials want to retire early. No longer content with merely working until their 60s, they envision a future where financial independence grants them to pursue passions, travel across the globe, or simply enjoy life on their own terms. But beyond the aspirational headlines and the dream of millennials retiring early, what does it really…
Avoid First-Time Property Investors’ Mistakes with Expert Advice
Thinking about taking your first step into the world of real estate? There are a lot of things to consider before you officially invest in a property and maximise profits in the long term. Many first-time property investors fall into common traps without the right guidance from an experienced investment advisor. So, whether you’re entering…
20 Passive Income Ideas You Can Try
The idea of earning money while focusing on other things, whether that’s family, travel, or simply enjoying life, is extremely appealing. That is what passive income is all about—revenue streams that continue to generate income with minimal ongoing effort. But remember this: while passive income is often associated with effortless riches, the truth is that…
Regional vs. Metro Property Investments: Consider the Best Opportunity
Looking to invest in Australian property? Many questions probably pop up in your mind. Should you choose a traditional long-term rental property or consider new models like co-living and Airbnb? Are you willing to pick a high-risk property investment type or stick to steady bets like apartments? There’s another question worth looking into: should you…
How Property Investment Can Offer You an Early Retirement
Forget waiting until your sixties—smart property moves now could have you quitting the nine-to-five way sooner. At The Harmony Group, we have the insights to help you build a future where your assets work for you, allowing you to step away from the workforce on your terms and giving you the freedom to do what…
What’s the Highest and Lowest Risk Property Investment Type in 2025?
You have to be smart about where to invest your money in the Australian property market, but like any decision, it is easier said than done. It helps to start by learning more about the playing field—including the potential risks. For starters, different types of property investments come with their levels of uncertainty. Some offer…
Uncovering the Legalities of Co-living Property Investments
Co-living has taken off here in Australia, offering a fresh spin on property investment. Instead of the usual single-tenant setup, you build a community within a property. That leads to more rental income, potentially lower vacancy rates, and a chance to tap into a growing demand for flexible and social living. But before you dive…
Co-Living vs. Airbnb: Which Offers Better Investment Returns?
The idea of your property investment working harder for you is appealing, but how can you ensure that? Here’s our pro tip: explore beyond the usual path of finding a long-term tenant. New ways to generate income from property investments have become popular, with co-living and Airbnb leading the charge. You’ve probably seen or heard…
How Co-Living Investments Can Deliver Positive Cash Flow in Australia
Co-living in Australia has changed how investors approach rental income, offering a model that brings in multiple income streams from a single home. Instead of leasing to one tenant or family, co-living properties can be home to several independent residents, each paying for their private spaces while sharing communal areas. If you’re an investor who…
Empowering Women: Safe & Inclusive Co-living Tips for Female Professionals
Are you relocating for work or stepping into a new phase of life? Perhaps, you’re merely looking for a better housing setup that meets your personal & professional needs. Co-living has become a practical alternative for many female professionals, as it offers shared spaces that balance affordability with social connection. Beyond splitting rent, co-living housing…
Ideal Student Co-living: Affordable and Convenient and Community-driven Housing
Student life is an exciting time—it’s filled with new social experiences amid academic challenges. But it’s not easy for students to find the right place to live. Traditional rentals often come with long leases, hidden costs, and a little sense of community. On the other hand, on-campus housing can be pricey and limited. That’s where…
Co-Living Investment: Maximising Rental Yields
Co-living redefines property investment. It allows you to enjoy multiple rental income streams under one roof with a construction budget comparable to a standard residential property. As such, it offers a rental yield higher than traditional rentals. But just how high can these yields go? Are there strategies to help you maximise the rental yield…
Debunking Co-living Property Myths
Co-living properties have gained traction in recent years as a modern housing solution, yet many myths surround this investment model, confusing potential investors and tenants. At Harmony Co-Living, we believe in providing clarity about the benefits of co-living and aim to debunk these investment myths. Today, we’ll discuss the facts and explore why co-living is…
Should You Invest in a Co-Living Property Through an SMSF?
As urban housing costs soar and traditional living arrangements evolve, co-living has emerged as an innovative solution, offering private spaces and a sense of community through shared areas. It is essentially a community-focused living arrangement offering flexibility, convenience & affordability. Simultaneously, SMSFs have become increasingly popular among savvy investors looking to diversify their retirement portfolios….
Guide to Understanding Co-Living
Co-living may sound like a trend, but this innovative concept is here to stay. In the Australian property market, it offers a fresh take on shared housing, helps address the country’s housing shortage issues and catches the eye of savvy investors. Today, we’ll share a comprehensive guide to understanding co-living and help potential investors maximise…
Traditional Property Vs. Co-Living Homes: A New Era of Investment in Australia’s Housing Market
With the traditional property industry in Australia facing significant challenges—such as skyrocketing property values, rising rents, and shifting tenant needs—the search for alternative investment strategies has never been more critical. One of the most compelling solutions to emerge today is co-living homes. This innovative housing model empowers investors to capture a rapidly growing market that…
What to Know Before Investing in Co-Living Housing
The Australian property market is undergoing a significant transformation, and co-living is at the forefront. As traditional real estate investment strategies face increasing challenges, co-living presents a unique opportunity for investors looking to meet the growing demand for flexible, community-focused living spaces. But before diving into co-living investment, it’s crucial to understand the key considerations…