Investors are preparing to storm the Australian property market, according to a national survey.

An online poll conducted by leading mortgage broker Loan Market Group found 82 per cent of respondents were looking to invest in property over the next 12 months.

The survey of more than 800 people found 34 per cent were looking for a suitable investment property now with interest rates still at near 50 year lows.

Twenty seven per cent of respondents said they would be waiting until the expanded First Home Owner’s Grant is phased out at the end of 2009, while 21 per cent said they were considering an investment property but wanted to be more secure about their job.

Only 18 per cent of those surveyed said they had no plans to invest in property over the next year.

Loan Market Executive Director John Kolenda said while first home buyers had been the most active part of the real estate market in the first half of the year, investors were waiting to pounce.

“As the number of first homeowners starts to wane with the boosted grant to be phased out during the second half of 2009, you’ll find that there will be a lot more opportunities for investors to get into the market,” Mr Kolenda said.

“I think investors are also realising the Australian economy has weathered the global financial crisis better than most and unemployment is not as bad as earlier forecast and certainly much lower than in previous downturns.

“Property investment is a great long term opportunity to create wealth and it is not as risky as the sharemarket.

“Interest rates are also the lowest they have been in almost 50 years and an upward movement is not expected to occur until some time next year. People concerned about rates rising can still lock in a fixed rate while they are reasonable.”

Mr Kolenda said lower interest rates ensured there was potential for good returns and cash flows for property investors.

“All the indicators are ideal for investors to return to bricks and mortar,” he said.

The current Loan Market Group online survey looks at how much home owners can afford interest rates to increase.

People can participate in the latest survey by visiting www.loanmarket.com.au or www.xinc.net.au or www.home-loans.com.au

Loan Market Group survey results:

Q: Are you planning to invest in property over the next -12 months?

Yes, I am looking while interest rates are still low - 34 per cent
Yes, but I’ll wait until the boost to the FHOG finishes - 27 per cent
I’d like to but I want to ensure job security first -  21 per cent
No, I have no plans to invest in property - 18 per cent