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buying a house with termite damage australia | CJC Law

Buying a House With Termite Damage in Australia: Buyer Tips

Buying a house with termite damage in Australia is a decision that requires careful consideration. Termites are a common issue in many parts of the country, and their impact on a property can range from minor cosmetic damage to severe structural problems. If you’re considering purchasing a termite-affected home, it’s

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property inspection reports | CJC Law

Why Property Inspection Reports Matter When Buying

Buying a home is one of the biggest steps you’ll ever take. It’s exciting, but it’s also a big decision—and a big investment. Before you sign on the dotted line, you’ll want to know everything you can about the property. That’s where property inspection reports come in. These reports help

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refinancing investment property | CJC Law

What to Know Before Refinancing Investment Property

Refinancing investment property means replacing your existing investment loan with a new one—usually to take advantage of lower interest rates, better loan features, or to access the equity you’ve built up in the property. Many Australian property investors are exploring refinancing as a way to boost their cash flow, grow

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what is the reserve price in an auction | CJC Law

Exploring Reserve Price in an Auction: How It Works

When you’re buying or selling a home at auction in Australia, one of the most important terms to understand is the reserve price. It’s a term that can confuse people, especially if you’re going through the auction process for the first time. But what exactly is a reserve price in

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what happens if you bid at a house auction and don't pay | CJC Law

What Happens If You Bid at a House Auction and Don’t Pay?

Bidding at a house auction is a big step. Once the hammer falls and your bid is the highest, things move quickly. But what if something goes wrong and you can’t follow through with payment? This situation can lead to serious problems. In Australia, winning a property at auction is

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types of trust accounts in real estate qld | CJC Law

Easy Guide to Types of Trust Accounts in Real Estate QLD

When you’re buying or selling property in Queensland, a trust account is often used to safely hold money during the transaction. These accounts make sure funds are managed properly and give everyone peace of mind while contracts are being finalised. In most property deals, especially when handled by a real

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are auctions unconditional | CJC Law

Are Auctions Unconditional? The Truth About Auction Sales

In competitive Australian real estate markets, auctions have become one of the most popular ways to buy and sell property. However, auctions differ significantly from private treaty sales, particularly when it comes to the legal obligations buyers face if successful. When a property is sold at auction, the contract is

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smoke alarms legislation qld selling house | CJC Law

Smoke Alarm Legislation in Queensland When Selling a House

Under current Queensland laws, every property sold or leased must meet specific smoke alarm compliance standards outlined in the Fire and Emergency Services Act 1990. These laws ensure that all homes are equipped with modern, photoelectric smoke alarms that are interconnected and strategically placed for maximum safety. Failing to meet

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government schemes for first home buyers | CJC Law

A Guide to Government Schemes for First Home Buyers in Australia

Owning your first home is a significant step, but the financial challenges can be daunting. Thankfully, the Australian Government offers a variety of schemes for first home buyers to make home ownership more affordable and achievable. First home buys can benefit from a number of initiatives including the First Home

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first home buyers benefits | CJC Law

How First Home Buyers Benefits Make Owning Easier

Buying your first home is a significant milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming without the right guidance. Fortunately, Australia offers a range of first home buyers benefits designed to make the process easier and more affordable. These benefits include grants, schemes, and tax concessions that help reduce upfront costs,

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landlord public liability insurance | CJC Law

Landlord Public Liability Insurance: Why Every Landlord Needs One 

Have you ever wondered what would happen if someone slipped, fell, or got injured on your rental property and held you responsible? As a landlord in Australia, protecting yourself and your investment property is essential. One crucial way to do this is through landlord public liability insurance. This type of

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who pays gst on sale of commercial property | CJC Law

Who Pays GST on Sale of Commercial Property Transactions?

Understanding the Goods and Services Tax (GST) is essential when buying or selling commercial property in Australia. GST often applies to these transactions, but it’s not always straightforward. Whether GST is payable, who is responsible for it, and how it is handled depends on several factors, including the type of

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draft transfer of land | CJC Law

What Is a Draft Transfer of Land and Why Does it Matter?

A draft transfer of land is a preliminary legal document that outlines the transfer of property ownership from a seller to a buyer, before it is officially lodged with the state land registry. This draft serves as a critical step in the conveyancing process, ensuring that all property details, ownership

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property easement | CJC Law

Property Easement Explained: What Every Buyer Should Know

Buying or owning a home is one of the biggest steps many Australians take. But sometimes, when you’re dealing with property, there are hidden details that can surprise you if you’re not careful. One of these important details is something called a property easement. While the term might sound technical,

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simultaneous settlement | CJC Law

Simultaneous Settlement: What to Expect and How to Plan

Buying and selling your home is an exciting milsetone. However, it is full of steps that need to be done correctly. One of the most complex steps people face is a simultaneous settlement. Simultaneous settlement happens when you sell your current home and buy a new one on the same

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buying a house

Can You Kick Tenants Out After Buying a House in Australia?

When you purchase a house in Australia, you might find that the property already has tenants living in it. This raises a big question: if you are buying a house with tenants, can you kick them out?  Simply put, you are not automatically allowed to evict them. Australian tenancy laws

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what not to fix when selling a house | CJC Law

What Not to Fix When Selling a House: Must-Know Tips

When you’re selling a house, it can be tempting to fix every little problem to make it look perfect for potential buyers. But is that really necessary? Not all repairs and improvements add value or result in a higher selling price. Some fixes may even cost more than the return

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how long is a contract of sale valid for | CJC Law

How Long Is a Contract of Sale Valid For in Australia?

A contract of sale is a legally binding agreement between a buyer and seller that sets out the terms of a property transaction. But how long is a contract of sale valid for? In Australia, the validity of this contract depends on several factors; the conditions outlined within it, key

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what adds value to a house australia | CJC Law

What Adds Value to a House Australia: Complete Guide

When it comes to increasing the value to a house in Australia, particular improvements and features can make a significant difference. Factors like strategic renovations, adding extra living space, energy-efficient upgrades, well-maintained outdoor areas, and a favourable location can all contribute to raising your property’s market value. Understanding which improvements

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flipping property for profit | CJC Law

Flipping Property for Profit: A Step-by-Step Guide

Flipping properties has become a popular strategy for investors looking to profit. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or a newcomer to the market, flipping properties can be a lucrative venture if done correctly. This step-by-step guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and strategies needed to flip properties for

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selling two properties together | CJC Law

How to Sell Two Properties Together in Australia Legally

Have you ever wondered if selling two properties together is a smart move? Whether you own neighbouring blocks, a house with a separate granny flat, or two investment properties, selling them as a package deal could be beneficial. However, this process comes with legal, financial, and logistical considerations. This guide

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goods left on property after settlement

Are You Responsible for Goods Left on Property After Settlement?

When a property is sold, it’s expected that the seller will remove all personal belongings before settlement. However, goods left on property after settlement are a common issue that can lead to confusion or disputes between buyers and sellers. Whether it’s forgotten furniture, leftover rubbish, or even valuable items, understanding

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do you pay body corporate on townhouses | CJC Law

Do Townhouses Require Body Corporate Fees in Australia?

If you’re thinking about buying a townhouse, one important consideration is whether you’ll need to pay body corporate fees. In Australia, body corporate fees (also called strata fees) apply to properties with shared spaces, like driveways, gardens, or pools. For townhouse developments, these fees are often required, but not always.

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vacant possession clause qld | CJC Law

The Vacant Possession Clause QLD: A Guide for Sellers and Buyers

When buying or selling property in Queensland, one of the most important aspects of the contract is the vacant possession clause. This clause ensures that the buyer will receive the property free from any tenants or occupants at the time of settlement, granting them full control over the property.  In

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buying a house timeline | CJC Law

Buying a House Timeline: Your Step-By-Step Guide

Understanding the timeline for buying a house is essential for anyone planning to purchase a property in Australia. From saving a deposit to finalising settlement, the process involves multiple steps, each with its own time requirements. A clear timeline helps you prepare for what’s ahead, avoid delays, and feel confident

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can you sell a house with a non compliant pool | CJC Law

Can You Sell a House with a Non-Compliant Pool?

Selling a property in Australia with a non-compliant pool is possible, but it comes with specific legal and practical challenges that every seller should understand. A non-compliant pool refers to a pool that does not meet the legal safety standards set by local councils or state laws, often related to

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buying a block of land and building later qld | CJC Law

Guide to Buying a Block of Land and Building Later in QLD

Purchasing a block of land with plans to build later offers a flexible path to homeownership. It allows for a thoughtful approach to creating a property that meets your specific needs while taking advantage of the vibrant opportunities in the region.  This option is especially appealing for those seeking to

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is it better to buy a house when interest rates are high | CJC Law

Is It Better to Buy a House When Interest Rates Are High?

Australian interest rates are sitting higher than in previous years, leaving many potential home buyers wondering: is it better to buy a house when interest rates are high? While it may seem like a good idea to wait until rates drop, there are some compelling reasons why buying now could

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early access to property before settlement | CJC Law

Early Access to Property Before Settlement: What You Need to Know

When buying a home, most buyers expect to receive the keys only after settlement, the final stage when ownership officially changes hands. However, there are situations where a buyer may need to access the property earlier. This is known as early access to property before settlement, a special arrangement that

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home insurance before settlement qld | CJC Law

Your Guide to Home Insurance Before Settlement in QLD

When purchasing a property in Queensland, home insurance before settlement is a critical but often overlooked part of the process. The standard contract in Queensland typically transfers the risk of damage to the buyer immediately after the contract is signed, not at the point of settlement. This means that even

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using equity to buy property | CJC Law

Using Equity to Buy Property: A Guide for Homeowners

Using equity to buy property is a popular method in Australia, allowing homeowners to leverage the value they’ve built up in their current home to purchase another property. Equity refers to the difference between the market value of your home and the balance of your mortgage. When you use equity

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deed vs contract | CJC Law

Deed vs Contract: What’s the Difference?

When dealing with legal documents, especially in property transactions, the terms “deed” and “contract” are commonly used but often misunderstood. While both are binding agreements, there are significant differences between them in Australian law, particularly in how they are executed and enforced. A deed is typically used for more formal

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when do i pay the deposit when buying a house | CJC Law

When Do I Pay the Deposit When Buying a House in Australia?

When buying a house in Australia, the deposit is typically due when the contract of sale is signed. This can either be on the same day or within a few business days, depending on the agreement with the seller. If you’re purchasing at auction, the deposit is due immediately after

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failure to give vacant possession | CJC Law

What Happens If There Is a Failure to Give Vacant Possession?

In property transactions, both buyers and sellers in Australia must fulfil certain obligations, one of which is giving vacant possession. This is a legal term used in property transactions that means the property must be empty of tenants, personal belongings, and anyone else’s legal right to occupy it at the

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auction settlement period qld

Auction Settlement Period QLD: A Complete Guide for Buyers

Buying a property at auction can be thrilling, but it also involves strict rules, especially regarding the auction settlement period in QLD. In Queensland, the settlement period refers to the time between signing the contract after winning the auction and the official transfer of ownership. This period is usually 30-90

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what is property tax | CJC Law

Understanding Property Tax in Australia: A Simple Guide for Buyers and Owners

Property tax is a fundamental cost for Australian property owners, but it’s often misunderstood. Whether you’re buying your first home or managing multiple investments, understanding property tax is key to budgeting and making informed decisions. In Australia, property tax can include state-based land tax, council rates, and other levies that

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what searches are essential when buying a house qld | CJC Law

Guide to Essential Property Searches in QLD

When buying a house in Queensland, conducting essential property searches is crucial to avoid unexpected issues and ensure a secure purchase. Each search plays a key role in verifying the property’s legal status, financial obligations, and potential restrictions that may affect your ownership and future plans. From confirming the property’s

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how to subdivide land qld | CJC Law

How to Subdivide Land in Queensland: A Detailed Guide

Subdividing land in Queensland involves dividing one parcel of land into two or more lots. This process requires compliance with local council regulations, state laws, and environmental considerations. It’s essential to understand zoning laws, lodge a development application, and ensure each new lot has access to necessary utilities like water

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cost of selling a house qld | CJC Law

What Is the Cost of Selling a House in Queensland?

When selling a house in Queensland, it’s important to understand the various costs involved so you can plan effectively. The cost of selling a house in QLD includes several key expenses, such as real estate agent commissions, conveyancing fees, government charges, and marketing costs. These expenses can add up, and

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what is settlement in real estate | CJC Law

Understanding What is Settlement in Real Estate: A Comprehensive Guide

When you’re ready to transfer ownership of property, the process culminates in what’s known as settlement. This crucial phase in real estate transactions ensures that legal and financial commitments are met, allowing the keys to change hands smoothly.  In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of settlement, explain

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Key Legal Considerations When Buying Off-the-Plan in Qld

Purchasing property off-the-plan can be an exciting venture, allowing you to secure a home or investment before it’s even completed. However, this approach comes with unique legal considerations that are essential to understand to protect your interests.  In Queensland, Australia, the laws and regulations surrounding off-the-plan purchases offer opportunities and

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do all owners have to agree to sell a house | CJC Law

Why Do All Owners Have to Agree to Sell a House?

Joint ownership of a house can be a great way to share the financial burden and responsibilities of homeownership. But what happens when one owner wants to sell the property while the others are content to stay? In this post, we’ll talk about the specific laws and regulations regarding joint

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Expert Tips on How to Sell Your House

Expert Tips on How to Sell Your House

Selling your home presents a unique set of opportunities and challenges. Whether you’re upgrading, downsizing, or simply looking for a change of scenery, the process requires careful planning and strategic execution. In this guide, you’ll discover practical steps to prepare your property for the market, attract serious buyers, and secure

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exclusive possession | CJC Lawyers

Understanding Exclusive Possession: A Comprehensive Guide

Exclusive possession plays a crucial role in various legal contexts. From property disputes to tenancy agreements, understanding this is vital for protecting your rights. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the intricacies of exclusive possession. We’ll explore what it entails, how it’s established, and the potential consequences of its violation.

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