Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au Review

Based on looking at the website, Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au appears to be a legitimate property investment advisory service based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, specialising in assisting clients with buying, selling, and managing investment properties. However, for a complete and ethical financial review, especially from an Islamic perspective, several critical elements are either missing or require further clarification to ensure compliance with Shariah principles. The website’s heavy emphasis on generating wealth through property investment, while potentially beneficial, doesn’t explicitly detail the mechanisms for ensuring all transactions are free from interest (riba), excessive uncertainty (gharar), or other impermissible elements.

Here’s an overall review summary:

Website Professionalism: High. The site is well-structured, easy to navigate, and provides substantial information about their services and experience.
Clarity of Services: Clear. They outline their role in property selection, purchase process navigation, and portfolio management.
Transparency of Fees/Structure: Low. Specifics on how they generate income (e.g., commissions, service fees) are not immediately apparent on the homepage, which is crucial for ethical dealings.
Ethical Compliance (Islamic Finance): Very Low. There’s no mention of Shariah-compliant investment strategies, mechanisms to avoid interest-based financing, or discussions on risk-sharing principles that are foundational in Islamic finance. The implied standard property acquisition model in Australia typically involves conventional mortgages with interest, which is impermissible.
Trust Signals: Moderate. Testimonials, social media links, and a physical address are present. However, regulatory body memberships or financial services licensing details are not prominently displayed, which would enhance trust. The “General Advice Warning” is a good inclusion but doesn’t substitute for clear regulatory information.
Overall Recommendation: Not recommended for those seeking Shariah-compliant property investment. While the service itself appears professional, the lack of transparency regarding financing models and ethical considerations makes it unsuitable for Muslims without significant independent verification and alternative Shariah-compliant financial structuring.

For those seeking to build wealth in a permissible manner, particularly within the property sector, it’s crucial to explore alternatives that explicitly adhere to Islamic finance principles. This typically involves financing structures that avoid interest, such as diminishing musharakah or murabaha, and ensuring that the underlying assets and contractual agreements are ethical and transparent.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Wealth Building and Property Investment (Shariah-Compliant Focus):

When considering wealth building, especially in real estate, it’s essential to look beyond conventional models that often involve interest-based financing, which is strictly prohibited in Islam. The goal is to engage in transactions that are fair, transparent, and built on principles of risk-sharing and ethical conduct. Since Think Investment Realty focuses on property, the alternatives below lean towards ethical investment avenues, particularly those that align with Islamic finance principles or represent tangibly beneficial assets without forbidden elements.

Hejaz Financial Services
- Key Features: Offers Shariah-compliant home finance, investment funds, and superannuation in Australia. Focuses on ethical and interest-free financial products.
- Price: Varies based on service, specific finance products, and fund management fees.
- Pros: Fully Shariah-compliant; regulated by ASIC; comprehensive suite of financial services; strong focus on ethical investments.
- Cons: Limited to Australia for direct financial services; may have higher administrative costs compared to conventional financing due to specific Shariah compliance structures.
Amanah Finance
- Key Features: Specialises in Islamic home finance solutions across Australia, designed to avoid interest through co-ownership and lease-to-own models.
- Price: Depends on the property value and chosen finance structure.
- Pros: Dedicated Islamic finance provider; transparent Shariah-compliant models; helps facilitate property ownership without Riba.
- Cons: Primarily focused on home finance, less on broader investment advisory; may require understanding of complex Islamic finance contracts.
Islamic Bank Australia
- Key Features: Australia’s first Shariah-compliant digital bank, offering ethical banking services, including home finance and savings products structured to be interest-free.
- Price: Standard banking fees; home finance rates competitive with Shariah-compliant market.
- Pros: Regulated by APRA; provides a full banking experience that adheres to Islamic principles; accessible through a digital platform.
- Cons: As a newer entity, portfolio of services is still expanding; may not have physical branches for those preferring in-person service.
Wahed Invest
- Key Features: A global ethical robo-advisor offering diversified Shariah-compliant investment portfolios, including real estate investment trusts (REITs) and sukuk (Islamic bonds).
- Price: Low management fees, typically 0.29% to 0.99% annually depending on asset under management.
- Pros: Globally accessible (now in AU); automated, diversified portfolios; transparent Shariah screening process for investments.
- Cons: Primarily for passive investment, not direct property acquisition; investment performance subject to market fluctuations.
Islamic Investment Funds (via Ethical Super)
- Key Features: Superannuation funds in Australia offering specific investment options screened for Shariah compliance, often including ethically screened property trusts.
- Price: Standard superannuation fund fees and management costs.
- Pros: Provides a Shariah-compliant option for retirement savings; investments are professionally managed and diversified.
- Cons: Locked-in until retirement age; limited control over specific asset allocation within the fund.
Direct Property Investment via Ethical Savings:
- Key Features: Instead of seeking conventional financing, save diligently and purchase properties outright or through interest-free partnerships. This might involve longer saving periods but ensures complete Shariah compliance.
- Price: Full purchase price of the property; costs associated with legal and property management.
- Pros: Absolute control over the asset; no debt or interest involved; complete adherence to Islamic principles.
- Cons: Requires substantial upfront capital; can be a slower path to portfolio growth.
Amana Funds
- Key Features: While not Australia-specific for direct property, Amana Funds offers global Shariah-compliant mutual funds that may include real estate as part of their diversified portfolio, adhering to strict ethical guidelines.
- Price: Management fees for mutual funds.
- Pros: Diversified exposure to Shariah-compliant assets globally; professionally managed; strong ethical screening.
- Cons: Not tailored to the Australian property market specifically; exposure to international market risks.

These alternatives prioritise adherence to Islamic finance principles, offering pathways to wealth creation that are ethically sound and permissible, which is a fundamental consideration often overlooked in conventional investment advice.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Table of Contents

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au Review & First Look

When you first land on Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au, you’re hit with a clear message: this mob is all about helping you snag investment properties, particularly in Queensland. The vibe is pretty professional, with a clean layout and a clear focus on property investment. They’ve got a lot of “Click here” buttons, nudging you towards exploring different facets of their service, like investing in family homes, research, community, or your future. It’s designed to be a one-stop shop for property investors, from the greenhorn to the seasoned pro.

Initial Impressions of the Homepage

The homepage of Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au immediately presents itself as a hub for property investment advice and services. It uses a clean, modern design with clear calls to action, encouraging visitors to explore their offerings. The initial impression is that of a professional and experienced entity in the Australian property market, specifically targeting South-East Queensland.

Visual Appeal: The website is aesthetically pleasing with a professional colour scheme and clear imagery.
Navigation: The menu is straightforward, offering quick access to key sections like “Invest in family homes,” “Invest in Research,” and “Invest in Our Community.”
Value Proposition: The site quickly communicates its core service: assisting with property investment, from acquisition to management.

Trust Signals and Credibility on Display

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au attempts to build trust through several elements on its homepage. They highlight their experience, client testimonials, and media appearances. This is standard practice for building rapport with potential clients and establishing credibility in a competitive market like real estate.

Experience Claims: They state “36 years experience” and “over 1,500 properties secured in the last 10 years,” which are significant figures aimed at instilling confidence.
Testimonials: Quotes from “Ray and Julz” and “BILL HUNTER” provide social proof, indicating past client satisfaction. These are positive signals, though more diverse testimonials or third-party review links would enhance credibility further.
Media Mentions: The “In The Media” section, featuring “Investment Property Expert Troy Sussman,” adds a layer of authority and public recognition.
Team Introduction: Troy Sussman’s personal message, outlining his 18 years of property investment experience and leadership in the family business, attempts to humanise the brand and build personal connection.

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au Pros & Cons (Focus on Cons for ethical review)

When evaluating any service, especially one dealing with significant financial commitments like property investment, it’s crucial to weigh the good against the not-so-good. From an ethical standpoint, particularly within the framework of Islamic finance, the “cons” often carry more weight, as they highlight areas of non-compliance or potential pitfalls.

Potential Benefits (from a conventional perspective)

From a purely conventional property investment perspective, Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au presents several attractive features that could benefit clients seeking to expand their property portfolios in Queensland.

Local Expertise: They position themselves as “Sunshine Coast’s local property investment experts,” suggesting in-depth knowledge of the regional market, which can be invaluable for investors.
Comprehensive Service: The promise to handle “every step of the process” from property selection to tenanting and portfolio management is appealing for busy or inexperienced investors.
Proprietary Research: Claims of a “Unique Research System” and “Proprietary Research Software” suggest a data-driven approach to identifying high-potential properties, which could lead to better investment decisions.
Educational Resources: Offering “Property Education Events” and a free “ebook with top tips” demonstrates a commitment to educating their clients, empowering them with knowledge.

Significant Drawbacks from an Islamic Ethical Standpoint

This is where Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au, like most conventional financial service providers, falls short when evaluated through an Islamic ethical lens. The absence of explicit Shariah-compliant mechanisms means potential exposure to impermissible elements.

Lack of Shariah Compliance: The most glaring omission is any mention of Islamic finance principles. Property acquisition in Australia typically involves conventional mortgages, which are interest-based (Riba). Riba is strictly forbidden in Islam, and its involvement invalidates the permissibility of the transaction from a religious perspective.
Unspecified Financial Models: The website doesn’t detail the financial structures used to acquire properties. Are they partnering with Islamic banks for Shariah-compliant financing, or do they solely recommend conventional lending? This lack of clarity is a major red flag for Muslim investors.
General Advice Warning: While common, the “General Advice Warning” that states “We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives” means they do not delve into personal ethical or religious requirements, placing the onus entirely on the client to ensure compliance.
Focus on Yield without Ethical Screening: While “Maximum Rental Yields” and “Capital Growth” are attractive to investors, there’s no indication that the properties or the tenanting processes are screened for ethical use. For instance, renting properties for businesses involved in alcohol, gambling, or other impermissible activities would not be permissible.
Absence of Takaful (Islamic Insurance): The blog post “Why Include Contents Insurance with Landlords Insurance?” discusses conventional insurance. Conventional insurance often involves elements of uncertainty (gharar) and interest, making it problematic in Islam. There’s no mention of Takaful, the Shariah-compliant alternative for risk mitigation.
“Book a Time to have a beer, wine or coffee”: This informal invitation, while seemingly innocuous for general audiences, includes “beer” and “wine,” both of which are forbidden in Islam. While it might just be a common Australian colloquialism, its inclusion on a site dealing with significant financial decisions for a broad audience, including Muslims, highlights a lack of consideration for diverse ethical requirements.
No Disclosures on Partnerships: If they partner with developers and builders, are these partnerships screened for ethical practices? What about the developers’ financing? These details are important for a holistic ethical assessment.

Understanding Riba (Interest) in Property Investment

For Muslim investors, the concept of Riba, or interest, is a critical barrier to engaging in conventional financial transactions, including typical property investments. Riba is explicitly forbidden in Islam, impacting how loans are structured, how profits are generated, and how financial relationships are formed. Its prohibition is central to Islamic economic principles, which advocate for risk-sharing, equitable distribution of wealth, and avoidance of exploitative practices.

The Prohibition of Riba

Riba refers to any increase or addition charged on a loan that is not a result of a legitimate commercial risk-sharing venture. It essentially means making money from money without a corresponding productive activity or risk-sharing partnership.

Quranic Prohibition: The Quran contains clear verses prohibiting Riba, equating it with fighting against Allah and His Messenger (2:278-279).
Sunnah Confirmation: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) also condemned Riba, declaring that both the one who takes Riba, the one who gives it, the one who records it, and the two witnesses to it are all cursed.
Economic Implications: Islamic scholars argue that Riba leads to economic inequality, inflation, and speculative bubbles, undermining genuine economic growth that comes from real production and trade.

Why Conventional Mortgages are Problematic

The standard mortgage offered by conventional banks involves borrowing money to purchase a property and paying back the principal amount plus a predetermined interest rate over time. This interest component is considered Riba.

Fixed vs. Variable Interest: Regardless of whether the interest rate is fixed or variable, the fundamental issue of paying a pre-determined return on a loan (which is the definition of Riba) remains.
Ownership and Risk: In a conventional mortgage, the bank retains ownership of the debt, not the asset, and earns a return without sharing the risk of the asset itself. Islamic finance models, like diminishing musharakah, involve co-ownership and risk-sharing.
The Debt Trap: Interest-based debt can lead to significant financial burdens, especially during economic downturns or personal hardship, pushing individuals into deeper debt spirals.

Ethical Property Investment Alternatives for Muslims

Given the prohibition of Riba, Muslim investors must seek out Shariah-compliant alternatives for property investment. These methods are designed to adhere to Islamic principles of fairness, transparency, and risk-sharing. Omajestic.com.au Review

Diminishing Musharakah

This is one of the most common and widely accepted Shariah-compliant methods for home financing and property investment. It’s a partnership model where the bank and the client co-own the property.

Partnership: The bank and the client form a joint venture (Musharakah) to purchase the property. The client’s equity is their initial deposit, and the bank provides the remaining funds.
Gradual Transfer of Ownership: The client gradually buys the bank’s shares in the property over time. As the client buys more shares, their ownership stake increases, and the bank’s decreases.
Rental Payments: During the period of co-ownership, the client pays a “rental” payment to the bank for the use of the bank’s share of the property. This payment is essentially for the usufruct (right to use) of the property, not interest on a loan.
Risk Sharing: Both parties share the risk of the property. If the property’s value decreases, both parties bear the loss proportionately to their ownership shares.
Benefits: Avoids Riba, promotes shared ownership, and aligns with Islamic principles of risk-sharing and ethical conduct.

Murabaha (Cost-Plus Financing)

While primarily used for commodity financing, Murabaha can be adapted for property in specific contexts, though it’s less common for long-term home finance than Musharakah.

Bank Purchase: The bank first purchases the asset (the property) from a third party at its market price.
Resale to Client: The bank then sells the property to the client at a pre-agreed higher price, which includes a legitimate profit margin for the bank.
Deferred Payment: The client pays the agreed higher price in instalments over a fixed period.
No Interest: The key is that the profit margin is part of the sale price, not an interest charge on a loan. Once the price is agreed upon, it remains fixed, regardless of the payment schedule.
Considerations: Transparency of cost and profit is crucial. The bank must genuinely own the asset before selling it to the client.

Ijarah (Leasing)

Ijarah is a leasing contract where the bank purchases the property and leases it to the client for a specified period with periodic rental payments.

Leasing Agreement: The bank (lessor) leases the property to the client (lessee).
Ownership Remains with Bank: During the lease term, the bank retains ownership of the property.
Rental Payments: The client pays rent for the use of the property.
Ijarah Muntahia Bi Tamleek (Lease ending in ownership): This variant includes a promise from the bank to transfer ownership of the property to the client at the end of the lease term, either through a gift, sale, or by transferring the remaining value for a nominal sum.
Benefits: Avoids interest, provides an alternative to conventional renting while working towards ownership.

Direct Cash Purchase and Partnerships

For those with sufficient capital, the most straightforward Shariah-compliant method is to purchase property outright with cash. This completely avoids any debt-based financing.

Cash Purchase: Using accumulated halal savings to buy a property eliminates the need for any form of external financing, thus avoiding Riba.
Ethical Co-Investment: Pooling resources with family or trusted partners (Musharakah) to purchase a property outright, where all partners contribute capital and share profits/losses based on their equity. This requires clear, pre-agreed terms for profit and loss sharing, management, and eventual exit strategies.

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au Pricing

Based on the information available on the Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au homepage, specific pricing models, service fees, or commission structures are not explicitly detailed. This is a significant gap for potential clients, especially when considering the ethical implications of financial transactions.

What’s Missing Regarding Pricing?

Most professional services, particularly in real estate and financial advisory, typically provide at least a general outline of how they charge for their expertise. This transparency is crucial for clients to make informed decisions and budget effectively.

No Fee Schedules: There are no listed fee percentages for their advisory services, property acquisition assistance, or ongoing portfolio management.
No Commission Structures: It’s unclear if they work on a fixed fee, a commission based on property value, or a success-based fee.
No “Pricing” or “Services” Page with Details: While they have a “Book a Time” call to action, there isn’t a dedicated section that breaks down the costs associated with their various services. This means a potential client would need to directly engage with them to get this fundamental information.
Implicit Costs: While not stated, it’s reasonable to assume that engaging with Think Investment Realty would involve costs related to:
- Consultation Fees: Though some initial consultations might be free (as implied by “Book a Time” for a chat), subsequent in-depth advice might be charged.
- Buyer’s Agent Fees: If they act as buyer’s agents, these fees typically range from 1% to 3% of the property purchase price.
- Property Management Fees: If they offer ongoing property management, these usually involve a percentage of rental income plus other administrative charges.
- Referral Fees: It’s also unclear if they receive referral fees from developers, builders, or lenders they recommend, which could potentially create a conflict of interest from an ethical standpoint if not disclosed.

Why Transparency in Pricing Matters (Ethical View)

From an ethical and Islamic finance perspective, transparency in pricing is paramount. It ensures that clients understand the full cost of a service and can assess its fairness.

Avoiding Gharar (Excessive Uncertainty): Lack of clear pricing introduces an element of Gharar. Clients are entering into a potential agreement without knowing the financial implications, which is discouraged in Islamic contracts.
Fairness and Justice: Clients have a right to know how much they are paying for a service. Hidden fees or opaque pricing models can be seen as unjust.
Informed Consent: For consent to be truly informed, all material terms, including costs, must be clear and understood by both parties before a commitment is made.
Budgeting and Financial Planning: Without clear pricing, clients cannot accurately budget for their investment journey, potentially leading to financial strain or unexpected expenses.

For a Muslim investor, not knowing the financial structure of the service itself (beyond the property acquisition) adds another layer of scrutiny. Even if the property acquisition could be structured Islamically, if the advisory service’s fees are unclear or involve impermissible elements (though unlikely for an advisory fee, clarity is still essential), it adds to the ambiguity.

How to Approach Property Investment Ethically (for Muslims)

For Muslims looking to invest in property, the journey requires careful navigation to ensure all aspects of the acquisition and management align with Islamic principles. This goes beyond simply avoiding interest-based loans; it encompasses transparency, fairness, and avoiding any dealings that are prohibited.

Seek Shariah-Compliant Financing First

The absolute priority is to secure financing that is free from Riba. This means actively seeking out Islamic finance institutions or brokers who specialise in Shariah-compliant mortgages. Babyvillage.com.au Review

Identify Islamic Banks/Finance Houses: Research reputable Islamic financial institutions in Australia (or internationally if relevant) that offer property finance products like Diminishing Musharakah or Ijarah.
Understand the Contract: Don’t just take their word for it. Request and thoroughly understand the contract terms. Ensure that the model explicitly states there is no interest charged on the funds, and that it’s based on profit-and-loss sharing or a permissible leasing arrangement.
Consult a Scholar (if needed): If the legal jargon or financial structure seems complex, consider consulting a knowledgeable Islamic scholar who specialises in finance to review the terms for Shariah compliance.

Vet the Property and its Use

Even if the financing is Shariah-compliant, the property itself and its intended use must also be permissible.

Lawful Asset: Ensure the property is legal and not involved in any illicit activities.
Permissible Use: If you’re buying a residential property to rent out, ensure it won’t be used for forbidden activities (e.g., as a bar, gambling den, or adult entertainment venue). If it’s a commercial property, screen potential tenants for their business activities. This might require due diligence in tenant selection and clear clauses in rental agreements.
Avoid Speculation (Gharar): While property investment inherently carries some risk, avoid purely speculative ventures that lack tangible value or involve excessive uncertainty. Focus on real assets with intrinsic value.

Ensure Transparency and Avoid Deception

Islamic ethics strongly emphasise transparency (wudu’h) and honesty in all transactions.

Clear Terms: All contracts, whether with an investment advisor, a bank, or a tenant, must have clear and unambiguous terms. Avoid hidden clauses, undisclosed fees, or misleading information.
Full Disclosure: If you’re working with an advisor or agent, they should disclose any potential conflicts of interest, such as referral fees they might receive from developers or builders.
Ethical Advisors: Choose advisors who understand and respect your ethical requirements. If a conventional advisor cannot or will not accommodate Shariah-compliant processes, seek alternatives.

Consider Takaful (Islamic Insurance)

Just as conventional loans are replaced by Islamic finance models, conventional insurance should be replaced by Takaful for property protection.

Cooperative Model: Takaful is based on mutual cooperation, where participants contribute to a common fund, and losses are shared among members. It operates on principles of mutual help and risk-sharing, avoiding elements of Riba, Gharar, and Maysir (gambling) found in conventional insurance.
Seek Takaful Providers: Look for Takaful providers in Australia or internationally that offer property or landlord insurance. If direct Takaful isn’t available, explore ethical alternatives that minimise non-compliant elements, though this requires careful scrutiny.

Zakat on Investment Property

Remember that investment properties held for rental income or capital appreciation may be subject to Zakat, an obligatory charity for Muslims.

Rental Income: Zakat is typically due on the net rental income (after expenses) at a rate of 2.5% if it reaches the Nisab (minimum threshold) and a lunar year passes.
Capital Value (for trading): If the property is held for resale (i.e., you’re a property trader), Zakat may be due on the current market value of the property, similar to business inventory. If held for long-term rental, Zakat is on the income, not the property’s capital value.
Consult a Scholar: For specific calculations and conditions, especially for complex portfolios, consult a knowledgeable Islamic scholar or a reputable Islamic finance institution.

By meticulously applying these ethical considerations, Muslim investors can pursue wealth creation through property in a way that aligns with their faith and contributes to a blessed livelihood.

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au vs. Halal Property Investment Services

Comparing Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au with dedicated Halal property investment services highlights a fundamental difference in their approach and target audience. While Think Investment Realty serves the general Australian property market, Halal services cater specifically to the ethical and religious requirements of Muslim investors.

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au’s Conventional Approach

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au positions itself as a conventional property investment advisory and management firm. Their focus is squarely on maximising capital growth and rental yields within the mainstream Australian real estate market.

Target Audience: General investors in Australia, primarily those interested in Queensland property.
Core Offering: Assistance with identifying, acquiring, selling, and managing investment properties. Uses traditional metrics like population movement, infrastructure spending, and rental yields.
Financial Model: Implies reliance on conventional financing methods (loans, mortgages) as these are standard in the Australian market. There’s no mention of Islamic finance alternatives.
Advisory Scope: Provides market insights, property selection advice, and process guidance, but does not extend to Shariah compliance checks for financing or property use.
Ethical Considerations: Absent from their public-facing information. Their “General Advice Warning” explicitly states they do not consider individual financial circumstances, needs, or objectives, which would include religious requirements.

Halal Property Investment Services’ Ethical Mandate

Halal property investment services (e.g., those offered by Islamic banks or specialised brokers) operate with the explicit mandate of adhering to Islamic Shariah law in every aspect of the transaction.

Target Audience: Muslim individuals and institutions seeking to invest in property while adhering to their faith.
Core Offering: Facilitating property acquisition through Shariah-compliant financial structures like Diminishing Musharakah, Ijarah, or Murabaha. They often advise on ethical property use and may connect clients with Takaful (Islamic insurance) providers.
Financial Model: Built entirely on interest-free and risk-sharing principles. They avoid conventional loans and ensure all contracts are scrutinised for elements of Riba, Gharar (excessive uncertainty), and Maysir (gambling).
Advisory Scope: Beyond market advice, they provide crucial guidance on Shariah compliance for the entire investment lifecycle, from financing to tenant selection and income generation. They often work with Shariah supervisory boards to ensure legitimacy.
Ethical Considerations: Central to their entire operation. Every transaction and service is designed to align with Islamic ethical standards, promoting fairness, transparency, and social responsibility.

Key Differences in a Nutshell

Feature	Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au	Halal Property Investment Services
Financial Basis	Conventional (interest-based financing implied)	Shariah-compliant (interest-free, risk-sharing)
Ethical Screening	None mentioned for property use or financing	Core part of service for all aspects
Target Audience	General Australian investors	Muslim investors seeking ethical compliance
Financing Models	Conventional mortgages/loans	Diminishing Musharakah, Ijarah, Murabaha
Risk Mitigation	Conventional insurance	Takaful (Islamic cooperative insurance)
Transparency (Fees)	Not explicitly detailed on homepage	Generally transparent with Shariah-compliant profit rates
“Alcohol” in marketing	Present (“have a beer, wine or coffee”)	Strictly absent

In conclusion, while Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au may be suitable for conventional investors, its lack of adherence to and even awareness of Islamic finance principles makes it unsuitable for Muslims. Muslim investors must seek out services explicitly designed and certified as Shariah-compliant to ensure their investments are permissible and blessed.

How to Conduct Due Diligence on Property Investment Services Ethically

When you’re looking to dive into property investment, especially if you’re keen on keeping things above board from an ethical standpoint, doing your homework on any service provider is absolutely non-negotiable. It’s not just about crunching numbers; it’s about checking their integrity, transparency, and alignment with your values. Annagramau.com.au Review

Verifying Professional Credentials and Experience

First off, you want to make sure the people you’re dealing with aren’t just spruiking hot air. Look for solid proof of their professional standing.

Licensing and Registration: In Australia, real estate agents and property advisors must be licensed by the relevant state or territory authority (e.g., NSW Fair Trading, Queensland Office of Fair Trading). Check their licence numbers. A quick search on the relevant government website should confirm their registration and any disciplinary actions against them.
Industry Memberships: Are they members of recognised industry bodies like the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA) or specific state-level institutes (e.g., REIQ for Queensland)? Membership often indicates adherence to a code of conduct and provides avenues for dispute resolution.
Years in Business & Track Record: While Think Investment Realty boasts “36 years experience,” verify this independently if possible. Look for historical data, public records, or articles that corroborate their claims of properties secured or clients served. A consistent, long-standing presence is a good sign.
Key Personnel Backgrounds: Research the experience and qualifications of the individuals leading the firm, like Troy and Sandy mentioned on Think Investment Realty’s site. LinkedIn profiles, past companies, and professional certifications can offer insights.

Assessing Transparency and Disclosure

This is where many conventional services fall short for ethically minded investors. You need absolute clarity on how they operate and how they profit.

Fee Structure: Demand a clear, written breakdown of all fees. This includes consulting fees, buyer’s agent commissions, property management percentages, and any other charges. Understand what you’re paying for and when.
Conflicts of Interest: Ask directly if they receive commissions or referral fees from developers, builders, or lenders they recommend. If they do, they should disclose this upfront. For an ethical investor, even if permissible, knowing about such arrangements is vital for trust.
Contract Clarity: Before signing anything, ensure all contracts are written in plain language, with all terms and conditions clearly outlined. Avoid anything vague or ambiguous, particularly concerning financial obligations or service deliverables. If in doubt, get independent legal advice.
Data Usage and Privacy: Review their privacy policy. Understand how they collect, use, and protect your personal and financial data.

Checking for Ethical and Shariah Compliance (for Muslim Investors)

This is a specific and crucial layer of due diligence for Muslim investors.

Explicit Shariah-Compliance Statement: Do they explicitly state their adherence to Shariah principles? Do they have a Shariah Supervisory Board or a recognised scholar overseeing their operations and products? If not, they are likely not suitable.
Financing Mechanisms: Inquire in detail about the financing models they facilitate. Are they exclusively using Riba-free structures like Diminishing Musharakah or Ijarah? If they push conventional mortgages, walk away.
Property Use Screening: Ask how they ensure the properties they recommend or manage will be used for permissible activities. While not always feasible for residential properties, for commercial properties, this is a critical consideration.
Insurance Providers: Do they recommend Takaful (Islamic insurance) or only conventional insurance? This is another indicator of their ethical alignment.
Source of Funds: For any joint ventures or partnerships, understand the source of their capital. Is it from permissible sources?

Client Reviews and References

Beyond the testimonials on their own site, dig deeper.

Independent Review Platforms: Search for reviews on Google, ProductReview.com.au, or other independent platforms. Be wary of services with very few reviews or an overwhelming number of generic five-star reviews.
Request References: Ask for contact details of past clients you can speak with directly. This is a powerful way to get unbiased feedback on their service, communication, and overall experience.
Check Regulatory Complaints: Investigate if there have been any public complaints or disciplinary actions against the firm or its principals with the relevant regulatory bodies or industry associations.

By methodically going through these steps, you empower yourself to make an informed decision, selecting a property investment service that not only promises financial returns but also upholds the ethical standards important to you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au?

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au is an Australian property investment advisory service based on the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, specialising in assisting clients with buying, selling, and managing investment properties in the region.

Is Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au a legitimate business?

Based on the website’s content, which includes physical address, contact details, team introductions, and testimonials, it appears to be a legitimate registered business operating in the Australian real estate sector. However, full regulatory licensing details for financial advice are not prominently displayed on the homepage.

Does Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au offer Shariah-compliant investment options?

No, the website does not mention or indicate any adherence to Shariah-compliant investment principles. Their services appear to operate within conventional property investment models, which typically involve interest-based financing, problematic for Muslim investors.

How does Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au charge for its services?

The website’s homepage does not explicitly detail the pricing structure, service fees, or commission rates for their property investment advisory or management services. This information would likely be provided upon direct consultation.

What areas does Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au specialise in?

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au specialises in property investment within South-East Queensland, particularly focusing on the Sunshine Coast region, leveraging their local market expertise. Mobilemaster.com.au Review

What kind of properties does Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au focus on?

They focus on investment properties, including family homes, and highlight properties that offer “Maximum Rental Yields” and capital growth, often working with developers and builders for “Quality, Tenant Ready Properties.”

Are there any upfront costs to consult with Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au?

The website invites visitors to “Book a Time” for a chat, implying initial consultations may be free, but this is not explicitly stated, nor are any subsequent service fees.

Does Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au provide property management services?

Yes, the website indicates that they assist with finding tenants and managing a growing portfolio of rental properties, suggesting they offer comprehensive property management services.

How much experience does Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au claim to have?

Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au claims to have “36 years experience” in the property industry and states they have “secured over 1,500 properties in the last 10 years” (or 2,500 properties in another section, which is an inconsistency).

Do they offer educational resources for property investors?

Yes, they offer “Property Education Events” and a free “ebook with top tips for finding the right investment property.”

What is the “General Advice Warning” on their website?

The General Advice Warning states that the information provided is general advice only and does not consider individual financial circumstances, needs, or objectives. It advises users to seek qualified professional advice before making any decisions.

Can Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au help first-time investors?

Yes, the website explicitly caters to various investor types, including “FIRST HOMEBUYER,” “FIRST TIME INVESTOR,” “NERVOUS INVESTOR,” and “SEASONED INVESTOR,” suggesting they can assist clients at different stages of their investment journey.

Do they use proprietary research tools?

Yes, they claim to use a “Unique Research System” and “Proprietary Research Software” developed in-house to research and assess investment properties, focusing on population movement, infrastructure spending, and demographic changes.

How can I contact Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au?

They provide a contact number (07 5451 1080) and a physical address (55 Sugar Rd, Maroochydore, QLD, 4558) on their website, along with social media links and online booking forms.

What are the main concerns about Thinkinvestmentrealty.com.au for ethical investors?

The primary concern for ethical investors, especially Muslims, is the lack of transparency regarding financing models and the absence of any mention of Shariah-compliant principles, implying reliance on interest-based conventional finance which is forbidden. Hivetreeservices.com.au Review

Are there any specific red flags on the website for Muslim investors?

Yes, the invitation to “have a beer, wine or coffee” with their expert, while possibly colloquial, explicitly mentions alcohol, which is forbidden in Islam, indicating a general lack of consideration for Islamic ethical guidelines.

What types of financial structures do Islamic finance institutions offer for property?

Islamic finance institutions offer Shariah-compliant structures such as Diminishing Musharakah (co-ownership with gradual buyout), Ijarah (leasing with ownership transfer), and Murabaha (cost-plus sale), all designed to avoid interest (Riba).

Why is interest (Riba) forbidden in Islam?

Riba is forbidden in Islam because it is considered an exploitative practice that generates wealth from money itself rather than from productive economic activity, leading to injustice, inequality, and financial instability.

What is Takaful and why is it important for Muslim property investors?

Takaful is the Islamic alternative to conventional insurance. It’s based on mutual cooperation and risk-sharing, where participants contribute to a common fund to cover potential losses, thereby avoiding elements of interest, excessive uncertainty, and gambling found in conventional insurance. It’s crucial for Muslim property investors to protect their assets ethically.

How can a Muslim investor ensure a property investment is permissible?

To ensure a property investment is permissible, a Muslim investor must:

Secure Shariah-compliant financing (e.g., Diminishing Musharakah).
Ensure the property’s intended use is permissible (e.g., no renting for illicit activities).
Seek transparency in all contractual terms and fees.
Consider Takaful for insurance.
Pay Zakat on rental income or capital gains where applicable.