Property Law
The Settlement Adjustment Process
Unlike utilities such as electricity and telephone, there are certain charges that attach to a property and remain with it even if sold. This is important to consider when buying or selling a house because it means the liability for these charges needs to be established. To determine who these charges apply to is by…
Read MoreProperty Co-Owner Disputes: Forcing A Sale Of The Property
Disputes between Co-owners of property are not uncommon. Most of us have at least known someone who has encountered problems with co-owned property. Take the following archetypical example: The last survivor of your parents have passed away leaving the family home or a cherished holiday house to you and your siblings. For the first few…
Read MorePurchasing A Property At Auction – Important Legal Facts
When purchasing a property at auction, there are several important legal facts that need to be considered. Cooling Off Period When buying at auction, there is no cooling off period. If you are the successful bidder, you will have to settle the contract. This applies even if: The house does not pass inspection. You change…
Read MoreWhy It Is Important For You To Have A Will
What is the Purpose of you Having a Will? A will is a legal document which states what you wish to happen with your assets (estate) once you pass away. Those nominated to receive your estate are known as the beneficiaries. It will also indicate who you want to administer your estate once you are…
Read MoreChoosing the Best Property Ownership Structure for You
When two or more people own a property together, there are three main ownership structures they can choose from; Joint tenancy; Tenancy in common; or Trustee. It is important to know which structure is best for you to ensure you get it right the first time and avoid additional costs. Joint Tenancy Joint tenancy is…
Read MoreNew GST Withholding Laws in Australia
On 1 July 2018 the new GST withholding regime relating to new residential premises or potential residential land transactions came into effect. The regime requires the buyers of new residential premises or potential residential land to account to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) for GST included in the purchase price.
Read MoreNew Cladding Laws affecting Queensland Building Owners
Non-conforming cladding on buildings has become an issue after the Grenfell Tower fire in the United Kingdom in 2017. Australia had a similar incident (excluding the loss of lives) at the Lacrosse Tower fire in Melbourne in 2014.
Read MoreChanges affecting Queensland residential property buyers
If you are buying a residential property in Queensland, you should be aware of the changes in additional foreign acquirer duty (AFAD) and the First Home Owners’ Grant in response to the 2018-19
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