Woolcock Partners

Thanks to all the local businesses who supported our fundraising for Jeans for Genes Day!

It’s good news for mortgage holders today – the Reserve Bank has opted to keep rates on hold at 4.75 per cent for another month.

The move comes on the back of recent comments by the Governor of the Reserve Bank that consumers had become cautious and were spending less and saving more.

“Whether we were going to get a rate rise was a bit touch and go this month,” says Domain.com.au property expert Carolyn Boyd. “On one hand inflation came in higher than expected last week, but on the other there’s still plenty of uncertainty in the global economy and locally, retailers are complaining of very tough conditions.”
Looking over the next year, it is difficult to tell where rates are headed with economists divided about whether they will head up, or down, or remain stable.
But Boyd says for mortgage holders, it’s always safer to err on the side of caution and assume that rates could go up. “With that thinking in place, it’s a good idea to pay a bit extra off your mortgage if you can,” she says.
Each 0.25 per cent interest rate rise adds another $60 to the monthly cost of an average Australian mortgage.

Have a great day

Woolcock Partners are proud to be involved in the Benevolent Societies Can Drive…

We have recently  had a number of Tenants and Owners contact us regarding controlling mould in your property

With the colder months comes an increase chance of mould developing inside.  There are number of steps that you can take to minimise the growth of mould thus reducing the chances of property damage.

Mould spores will grow and reproduce in damp, unventilated areas around your house if they have a food source such as dust, dirt or organic matter.

Ventilation

Moisture and humidity levels are required to support mould growth.

The cheapest and easiest way of reducing moisture and humidity levels is by ventilating a room by opening a window or door. All areas of the house should be continuously ventilated where possible.

The most effective method of reducing moisture is to use exhaust fans in areas where water vapour is created. There must be enough ventilation for an adequate intake of fresh air to replace the moist air.

Heating

Condensation and mould growth can be reduced by providing a continuous low level of dry heat. Continuous, even heating will allow warmth to penetrate the walls and ceilings. On cool days try to keep the inside temperature at least 5°C higher than the outside temperature.

Top Tips for cheap mould prevention

1) opening curtains and blinds during the day

2) opening windows and doors when possible

3) using an exhaust fan or opening a window when cooking

4) using lids on pots and saucepans

5) open a window or door or use an exhaust fan when having a shower or bath to control air moisture

6) clean and dry surfaces that get wet regularly.

7) hanging wet clothes outdoors

8) opening a window when using a clothes drier or venting the drier outside

How do I remove mould?

Mould should be removed as soon as it appears. Completely eliminating mould and its causes can take some persistence. Small areas of mould can be cleaned by using a bleach mixture (1 part bleach to 3 parts water) or a suitable commercial product (follow the manufacturer’s instructions). Wear rubber gloves, take care not to splash the cleaning solution and make sure the area is well ventilated. Don’t dry-brush the mouldy area as a brush can flick mould spores into the air which may cause health problems.If mould returns, there may be an underlying problem. If mould contamination is extensive then a professional cleaner should be consulted.