-
 New policy adviser
3.3.2010
The Property Council of Australia has appointed Paul Bargon as its new Policy Adviser for the Illawarra.
Chairman of the Illawarra Chapter, Geoff Jones, said Mr Bargon replaces Amanda Kunkler, who resigned before Christmas to take a new post with IRT.
“We have an enormous task ahead of us in 2010 as we advance policy solutions that can drive economic growth and strong activity in the property sector,” Mr Jones said.
“Movement on the City Centre Action Plan and further action on the West Dapto Land Release are among our key priorities.
“Paul’s appointment will ensure we are well placed to work with both sides of politics ahead of the 2011 NSW election to secure commitments that benefit the region.
“It will also strengthen the capacity of the Property Council to work with civic and community leaders on other policy priorities.”
Mr Bargon has lived in Wollongong since 1974. He was a teacher of Business Studies at Wollongong TAFE for 19 years before joining Illawarra Technology Corporation to help manage international development projects.
He spent most of the past nine years in Australian development assistance projects in Indonesia, building the capacity of vocational training bodies.
|
Rising home values a boost for retirees
3.2.2010
SENIORS looking for a cash-boost in their retirement can draw comfort from increasing home values, according to Homesafe Solutions.
“Many home owners don’t know they can unlock the equity in the family home without selling or going into debt,” said Homesafe Solutions managing director Peter Szabo.
“Many retirees have been battered by the sharemarket over the past year, but for those with their own home, the silver-lining has been strong house price growth.”
Mr Szabo said that Homesafe Solutions Debt Free Equity release product could provide retirees with a much-needed injection of cash, but unlike a reverse mortgage did not involve taking out a loan.
“The family home is the largest asset for most retirees and equity release enables you to use it as a source of retirement income,” Mr Szabo said.
The family home was emerging as a very important source of retirement income thanks to equity release.
“Equity release allows home owners to stay in their own home during retirement, while providing a cash injection that can help fund their retirement lifestyle,” Mr Szabo said.
In exchange for an upfront cash payment, home owners agreed to sell a share of the future value of their home.
For more information about Homesafe Solutions product visit www.homesafesolutions.com.au or call 1300 725 750. |
