Frequently asked questions.

If you're looking to buy, the first step is to have us look at the contracts to make sure you know what you are buying and what your obligations are — then we go through the next steps with you. If you're looking to sell, it starts with a conversation and we go from there. We make sure that you are kept up to date the whole way.

Get in touch with us — that's what! There's a lot to look out for when buying a property, so if you find a property that you like, send through the Contract and Vendor Statement and we can check it out for you. We can help make sure you're aware of what you're buying and what to expect along the way.

In days gone by it would have been a hard and fast yes. Thanks to a few advances in technology, the entire transaction can now be dealt with remotely. We still need to complete our verification of identity checks with you — but there are apps for that. We're still happy to see your face if you'd prefer to meet in person, and depending on where you are, we're also happy to come to you.

While streamlining of processes has reduced the amount of paperwork, there is still quite a bit that needs to be read and completed. But don't worry — we make sure that everything is fully explained and easy to understand. And remember, if something isn't clear, we are always happy to talk about it.

This depends on a few things. Stamp duty is calculated as a percentage of the purchase price of the property, and it also depends on your eligibility for any concessions — such as the first home buyer concession or pensioner concession. The State Revenue Office publishes a stamp duty calculator, or give us a call and we can help you work it out.

There are a number of factors that determine your eligibility for a reduction in stamp duty. The State Revenue Office has detailed information about concessions — or feel free to give us a call and we can help you determine if you are eligible.

When buying property, it seems like the money never stops going out the door! That's why we make an effort to ensure you're fully aware of all the costs you'll incur along the way. In addition to the purchase price, the more common costs are:

• Stamp duty
• Title registration fees
• PEXA fees
• Conveyancing fees
• Lender fees (your lender sometimes passes some of their costs onto you)
• Your portion of council and water rates (and sometimes owner's corporation fees)

Other costs may arise — but don't worry, we'll make sure you're aware of them if they do.

Typically, existing residential property transactions do not attract GST — however we strongly advise that you contact our office if you are unsure.

The good news — no. On the day of settlement, all you need to do is wait for the phone call confirming that settlement has taken place.

Typically, keys are available within 15 minutes of settlement being completed. Keep in mind settlement can take up to 30 minutes from when it starts (though it can be much faster). For example, if settlement is scheduled for 1pm, you may not be able to collect the keys until 1:45. But don't worry — we'll let you know as soon as you can pick them up!

If you're selling, once we let you know settlement has completed there really isn't a lot for you to do. Just make sure you've disconnected any services (electricity, phone, internet, gas) and we'll take care of the rest — including letting the council and water authority (and owner's corporation if applicable) know that you no longer own the property.

If you're buying, the first thing to do is pick up the keys! And almost the reverse of selling — we'll let the council and water authorities (and owner's corporation if applicable) know that you are the new owners.

Everyone! Well — as many as you would like to. In terms of the council and the water authority, we take care of that for you. Likewise, if the property has an owner's corporation, we'll make sure they know too.

When a property in Australia sells, each vendor is required to provide evidence to the purchaser that they are not a foreign vendor. If a vendor does not provide a certificate saying otherwise, the purchaser is obliged to retain 15% and remit it to the Australian Tax Office at settlement. Details of how to apply for the certificate will be in any paperwork that we send to you.

Absolutely!

Short answer - yes! But there are residency requirements in order for you to avoid any additional Stamp Duty. Please contact our office for more details.

Good question! It is safe to say that if you hold an Australian passport or an Australian Permanent Residency visa, you would not be considered a foreign purchaser. However, it is a complex area — so if you are not sure where you stand, don't be afraid to call and we can help you out.