Before you sell |
Before you list your property for sale, consider appointing a solicitor and agent to advise you, represent your interests and facilitate the sale.
If you have an investment property, talk to an accountant about taxation implications.
If you decide to make improvements to your home before putting it on the market, engage a suitably licensed contractor to carry out the work. If your home does not currently have an electrical safety switch, consider installing one.
Sustainability declaration
If you are selling a house, townhouse, or unit ensure you have completed a sustainability declaration form, even if you use an agent to sell the property.
New legislation brought into effect on 1 January 2010 requires sellers and agents to provide information on sustainable housing measures for the sale of residential property.
You cannot publish an advertisement for the sale of property unless the advertisement includes information about where a copy of the sustainability declaration can be obtained. This requirement applies to all advertising excluding newspaper and magazines.
If you open your home to public for inspection, you must ensure a copy of the sustainability declaration is displayed conspicuously on site.
The sustainability declaration form and guide on completing the form are available from the Department of Infrastructure and Planning.
If using a property agent, you must provide them with a signed copy of the declaration before they will market the property for sale.
You are required under the Building Act 1975 to complete the declaration form. If you refuse to complete the form, penalties up to $2000 may apply. If you are unable to sign the form, a party authorised by a power of attorney or another statutory power can sign in your place.
For more information visit the Department of Infrastructure and Planning website.
Last reviewed 22/11/2011 |
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