Can I suggest looking into having a quantity surveyor assess your property (and you can claim the cost of having this done). They will provide a depreciation schedule for you which will tell you how much each item will depreciate in value over the maximum number of years you can claim. If an item is at the end of its depreciable life, they will tell you what you are able to replace. Even if you only have tenants for a short while, you are able to claim depreciation for a pro-rata period that your asset is income producing. What all this means for you in terms of design - there may be ways to improve the look of your property in line with what you will want it to look like when you eventually move in, which could gain you a tax benefit. Of course, you have to have the $$ to spend on it in the first place. Oh - and in terms of furniture - do you know about Casey Auctions in Hallam? they are close by and you may pick up some really good bargains. I know we did!

I hear you, being a mum is a big job & not for the faint-hearted, hehe. That was sweet of your husband to do all that for you. As your ceilings and skirting and architraves are white, maybe a fresh white would really lift the whole house. There are many shades so my advice is to visit your local paint store and look at the whites. Hopefully, you will be able to narrow it down to a few. Of course, other colours might appeal to you as well, so just see what takes your fancy. Also, have you looked through the kitchen and living room Houzz photos to see if any particular room colours appeal to you? That might be helpful too. :)

Hi Anna, what colour(s) are your features? You may find changing up the window frames, gutters etc. will change how you feel about the wall colour. If they are all aluminium and can't be changed, even adding a pop of colour with a strong front door colour can make a big difference, as can landscaping. Have you tried searching for homes with Colorbond Dune to see what other homes with Dune render look like?

I would replace all the shiny objects. Replace with: A rattan sideboard, and rattan edge mirror. Adairs have a great range of textured cushions and throws. Replace the lamp with a deeper, earthy colour. A print or painting in your favourite colour. Dare I say, not white.