Property Legislation

NSW Strata Reforms: Easier Strata Living and Enhanced Owner Protection

New laws aim to improve strata living in NSW, focusing on accountability, affordability, and sustainability.
Published: 20 November 2024
Released by: Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading

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NSW Housing Taskforce Accelerates Home Construction

The NSW Minns Labor Government has announced the success of its Housing Taskforce, a pilot program established in September 2024 to streamline the approval process for housing developments
Published: 14 November 2024
Released by: Minister for Planning and Public Spaces

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NSW Housing Pathways Strategy: Access to Affordable Housing

The NSW Housing Pathways Strategy, launched in April 2010, revolutionized the way the state delivers social and affordable housing assistance. Prior to its implementation, the system was fragmented and difficult for many to navigate, particularly vulnerable populations. The strategy aimed to create a "no wrong doors" system, simplifying access to housing assistance and improving client outcomes.

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$4 Million Additional Funding for Enhanced Tenant Advice and Advocacy Services

Published: 29 October 2024
Released by: Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading

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Building Homes for NSW Program Expands to Include 1,600 New Homes

24 October 2024. The Minns Labor Government is actively progressing its Building Homes for NSW program by identifying more properties for development, announcing 30 new sites that will support the construction of around 1,600 new homes.

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Mould in Rental Properties, NSW.

Official Information by: NSW Fair Trading
Housing and Construction

Both landlords and tenants play vital roles in addressing mould issues in rental properties.

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Ending a Tenancy Due to Domestic Violence

Official Information from: NSW Fair Trading
Housing and Construction

A tenant has the right to terminate their tenancy immediately, without facing penalties, if they or their dependent child are experiencing domestic violence.

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Compensation Following Compulsory Acquisition

This document aims to guide professionals on how the Valuer General determines compensation for the compulsory acquisition of land. For in-depth information, please download the guidance document below.

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Why Land is Valued and its Uses in NSW

In New South Wales, the valuation of land is an essential process managed by the NSW Valuer General, who oversees the valuation of over 2.6 million parcels of land each year. This system is designed to ensure that land values are fair, accurate, and consistent across the board.

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Discrimination against prospective tenants:

Landlords and agents have the right to select the most suitable applicants for their properties. However, they must not engage in unfair discrimination.

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Understanding Rental Property Condition Reports

A rental property condition report is an essential document that captures the overall state of the property, detailing its condition room by room, including all fixtures and fittings. This report provides a record of how the property looked before the tenant moved in and plays a key role in managing the tenancy.

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Rentstart Bond Loan Part 3

The Rentstart Bond Loan is an interest-free loan designed to help eligible clients cover the cost of a rental bond for a tenancy under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010.

To qualify for a Rentstart Bond Loan, clients must meet the eligibility requirements outlined in the Rentstart Assistance policy and the Eligibility criteria for social housing policy, including income limits. The income eligibility requirement for social housing is waived for individuals experiencing domestic or family violence. For more details on the eligibility criteria, please visit the Eligibility criteria for Rentstart assistance products page.

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Assessing Eligibility for Rentstart Products Part 2

To qualify for Rentstart assistance, clients generally need to meet the eligibility criteria for social housing and, in most cases, stay within a cash assets limit. However, specific eligibility requirements for each Rentstart product can differ. It's important to note that the income requirement for social housing is waived for individuals facing domestic or family violence.

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Rent Start Assistance NSW Part 1

This program offers financial assistance to help individuals find and maintain rental homes in the private market. Rentstart aims to provide support to those in need, especially people facing homelessness. In this first part, we will cover the background of the Rentstart scheme, the types of assistance available, and the application process.

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First Home Guarantee: Helping Aussies Get Into Their First Home

Looking to buy your first home but struggling with the deposit? The First Home Guarantee (FHBG) might just be what you need! Part of the Australian Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS), the FHBG helps eligible home buyers get into the property market sooner by offering a government-backed loan option.

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Rentstart Bond Loan NSW

The Rentstart Bond Loan is a valuable program offered by Homes NSW to provide financial support for eligible individuals looking to secure or maintain a rental property in the private market. This initiative can offer a loan of up to 100% of your rental bond, helping you establish a tenancy without the burden of immediate bond costs. Importantly, this loan is interest-free, and repayments made are potentially refundable at the end of your tenancy, provided there's no claim from your landlord or real estate agent.

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Pension Rebates on Water Bill

If you receive a pension from Services Australia or the Department of Veterans' Affairs, you might qualify for a discount on your water bill's fixed service charges. Before you apply, check your bill to see if you already have the 'Pensioner concession' listed under Other charges and credits, which means you’re already getting the rebate.

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Aboriginal home buyer saver

If you're an Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO) or social housing tenant dreaming of owning your own home, there are three grants that could help make that dream a reality. These grants offer eligible Aboriginal people a one-time financial boost to ease the journey to home ownership.

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Family Home Guarantee, Australia

The Family Home Guarantee (FHG) is designed to help eligible single parents and single legal guardians purchase a home. This is part of the Australian Government's Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS). Administered by Housing Australia, the program aims to assist either first-time buyers or those who have previously owned a home.

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Understanding the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme

The First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme (FHBAS) is designed to ease the financial burden of purchasing your first home, offering significant benefits such as full exemptions or reduced rates of transfer duty. This support can make the difference between renting and owning a home, providing a crucial stepping stone for many aspiring homeowners. Here’s what you need to know about this valuable scheme.

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Support for Domestic and Family Violence in NSW

Domestic and family violence is a serious issue that affects individuals and communities across the globe. It manifests in many forms, including physical, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse, and can have long-lasting impacts on the victims and their loved ones. It is vital for anyone experiencing such violence to know that they are not alone and that support is available

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Top Tips for First-Time Home Buyers in Sydney

With high demand, limited supply, and varying neighbourhood dynamics, it’s essential to be well-prepared before diving into the property market. Here are some top tips to help first-time home buyers guide Sydney’s real estate landscape.

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The Ultimate Guide to Property Management in Sydney's Eastern Suburbs

Property management can be a tiring task for homeowners, especially in bustling areas like Sydney's Eastern Suburbs. Having a professional property management company can make all the difference. This guide will walk you through what property management entails, its benefits, and how to choose the right company to meet your needs.

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Everything You Need to Know About Setting Up a Lease Agreement in NSW

In New South Wales, a lease agreement is a legally binding contract between a property owner (landlord) and a tenant. This document outlines the terms, conditions, rights, and responsibilities of each party in relation to renting the property. Landlords must be fully aware of their legal obligations and entitlements when entering into such agreements.

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Pre-purchase Inspection Reports

In addition to inspecting a home yourself, obtaining building, pest, or strata inspection reports from licensed professionals can provide valuable insights. Here’s what you need to know about the process:

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Buying a Home at Auction

Auctions can be tense, especially for first-time bidders. This guide will help you prepare before attending an auction and understand what to expect on the day.

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Rent Choice Veterans

The NSW Government, in partnership with RSL LifeCare, offers a program called Rent Choice Veterans to support former members of the permanent Australian Defence Force and their families. This program assists eligible veterans in:
Finding a rental property
Securing a lease or staying in their current accommodation
Paying the rent for up to three years
Gaining skills and work opportunities to achieve financial independence

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Rent Choice Start Safely

The NSW Government’s Rent Choice Start Safely program provides short to medium-term private rental assistance for individuals who lack stable and secure housing due to domestic or family violence.

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Condition Report Requirements in NSW

NSW law mandates that a Condition Report be completed by both the tenant and landlord at the start and end of a tenancy. This must be done using the standard form provided by NSW Fair Trading.

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FHG How to Apply

The Australian Government's Home Guarantee Scheme offers crucial support for single parents or legal guardians looking to purchase a home.

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The Family Home Guarantee (FHG)

Part of the Home Guarantee Scheme (HGS), this initiative is spearheaded by the Australian Government to facilitate eligible single parents or single legal guardians with at least one dependent in purchasing a home sooner. Housing Australia oversees the administration of this program on behalf of the Australian Government.

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Signing a lease in NSW

Signing a lease agreement is a significant step in securing a rental property in New South Wales (NSW). It's essential to understand your rights as a tenant and familiarize yourself with the terms and conditions outlined in the lease before signing on the dotted line. In this blog post, we'll delve into the key aspects of signing a lease in NSW, including your rights, what to expect when signing the lease, and what the lease includes.

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Youth Disability Supplement: Eligibility, Application, and Payment Details

The Youth Disability Supplement is a valuable financial assistance program available to eligible individuals under the age of 22 who have a disability or illness that affects their ability to work.

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Getting help with rental disputes

Navigating the rental market can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. In New South Wales (NSW), several support services are available to tenants, offering free and independent information, advice, and advocacy. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the key tenancy support services available in NSW and how they can assist you.

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Dealing with Misbehaving Animals: A Guide to Reporting and Resolving Issues

Living in a neighbourhood with misbehaving animals can be frustrating and even dangerous at times. Whether it's incessant barking, garden destruction, or aggressive behaviour, addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining a safe and peaceful community. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to report and resolve problems caused by badly behaving animals.

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Family Energy Rebate: Supporting Families with Electricity Costs

The struggle to manage household expenses, especially electricity bills, can be daunting for families with dependent children. The NSW Family Energy Rebate recognizes this challenge and provides much-needed relief.

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NSW Gas Rebate: Assisting Concession Card Holders with Gas Bills

For many households in New South Wales (NSW), managing gas bills can pose a significant financial challenge. To provide support to eligible concession card holders, the NSW Gas Rebate offers relief for natural gas or bottled Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) expenses.

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Serving Notice to Tenants

Properly serving notices to tenants or landlords is a critical aspect of property management, ensuring that all parties are informed and their rights are respected. Here's a breakdown of how to serve notice, the proof of service required, and the different notice periods depending on the circumstances

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Rights and Responsibilities During Natural Disasters

In the unfortunate event of a natural disaster such as a flood, bushfire, or storm affecting a rental property, both tenants and landlords have specific rights and responsibilities to consider

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Tenant's Rights Regarding Urgent Repairs

In situations where urgent repairs are necessary, tenants have rights and options to ensure prompt resolution and reimbursement if the landlord fails to act. Here's what tenants can do

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Rental Property Maintenance: Understanding Responsibilities and Urgent Repairs

When renting a property, it's crucial to understand the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants regarding repairs, maintenance, and damage. This ensures a harmonious tenancy and a safe living environment. In this guide, we'll explore the general information about property maintenance, tenant responsibilities, and what constitutes urgent repairs in a rental property.

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Strata By-Laws

Understanding and adhering to the by-laws of your strata scheme is crucial for balanced communal living. From pets and parking to noise and smoking regulations, by-laws shape the everyday dynamics of your building or complex. Here's a comprehensive guide to demystifying strata by-laws, including their nature, creation, restrictions, and where to find them.

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Noise Issues in Sydney

Addressing noise concerns in a community is essential for fostering peaceful coexistence. Whether it's a residential or commercial setting, the City of Sydney encourages proactive communication and provides avenues for resolution. Here's a step-by-step guide on what you can do to resolve noise problems in your neighborhood.

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Landlord Access in a Rented Property

Tenants have the right to peace, comfort, and privacy when renting a property. Laws regulate when and how often landlords, agents, or authorized individuals can enter a rented property. In most situations, a landlord, agent, or their representative can only enter without the tenant's permission if they provide prior notice.

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Legal Process of Mortgagee repossession

To reclaim a property, the mortgage holder (mortgagee) must secure a court order from the Supreme Court. Even if the tenant is unaware of the proceedings, the court can issue an order for possession

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Sharing a leased home

Sharing a rented home can take various forms, each with its specific requirements:

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Murray Property: Your Reliable Partner in Paddington's Real Estate Scene

In Paddington, Sydney, having a trustworthy real estate agent matters. At Murray Property, led by our Founder and Director Manager, Michael Murray, we're all about making property management and renting as hassle-free as possible. We're all about keeping things simple so that you can enjoy your rental without any added stress.

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Lease Termination and Notices

Terminating a lease can be initiated by either you or your landlord. It's crucial to understand the required notice periods, your rights as a tenant, and the potential costs involved in ending a lease prematurely.

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Understanding the Residential Sales Process in New South Wales

In New South Wales, selling a residential property involves a structured process and certain legal requirements that sellers and buyers must adhere to for a smooth transaction

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Strata Renovation Regulations

In the world of strata properties, renovating your space is an exciting opportunity to personalize your home. However, it's vital to understand the rules governing renovations to avoid complications or unexpected costs. Here's a breakdown of the key information you should know before embarking on any changes.

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The Offer Process When Buying Property

Making an offer on a property is a significant step toward potential ownership, but it's crucial to recognize that it doesn't finalize the sale. Before contracts are exchanged, sellers might entertain other offers, leading to a scenario where your expressed interest might be surpassed by another buyer, a situation commonly known as being gazumped

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Who can make a domestic violence declaration?

Historically, only registered medical practitioners held the authority to complete domestic violence declarations. However, as of December 11, 2020, a pivotal change has broadened the scope of individuals empowered to provide such declarations. This development is significant in facilitating a more comprehensive support system for victims of domestic violence, acknowledging the diverse range of professionals who can play a crucial role in this context.

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Water, electricity and gas in rental properties a tenant's guide

Understanding the responsibilities and costs associated with utilities is crucial for tenants. In most cases, tenants are responsible for paying utility bills if the property is 'separately metered.' Here's a comprehensive guide to help tenants navigate utility-related decisions and costs.

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Tenant Rights: Entry Guidelines for Landlords and Agents

When it comes to renting, tenants are entitled to reasonable peace, comfort, and privacy. The law imposes restrictions on how and when landlords, agents, or their representatives can enter a rented property. Here's a breakdown of the rules to ensure both landlords' interests and tenants' rights are respected.

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Disclosures of Every Tenant Needs Before Signing a Lease Agreement in New South Wales

Before putting pen to paper on a tenancy agreement in New South Wales, tenants need to be fully informed about the property they're considering. Landlords and agents have a legal obligation to provide certain information to potential tenants to ensure transparency and a smooth renting experience.

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Procedures for Modifying Your Rental Property or Requesting Repairs

As a tenant, it's essential to be aware of both your rights and responsibilities when it comes to the property you are renting. Your landlord or agent has certain obligations, and you, as a tenant, also bear certain responsibilities. Here's a breakdown of what you should know:

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Swimming Pool Regulations NSW

The stipulations outlined in the Swimming Pools Act of 1992 to swimming and spa pools situated on properties that feature residential buildings, movable dwellings, or accommodations intended for tourists and visitors.

These legal provisions are pertinent to your situation if you own a property furnished with a swimming pool or spa pool.

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Terminating a Rental Agreement

A tenancy agreement forms a legally binding contract that can only be terminated through specific procedures. Typically, termination occurs when either the landlord or tenant serves a notice to the other party, and the tenant vacates the property as per the specified date in the notice.
This notice must be provided in writing, and the duration of the notice period depends on the type of agreement (fixed-term or periodic) and the reasons for termination. The notice periods are designed to give both tenants and landlords sufficient time to secure alternative arrangements.
In some cases, the landlord or tenant may seek a termination order directly from the Tribunal without the need for prior notice. This option is available in certain circumstances, but it's essential to follow the legal procedures.

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Solving Issues in Residential Rentals

To effectively address any issues or complaints, the initial step is to thoroughly review the terms of your tenancy agreement. The tenant and the landlord or agent should earnestly attempt to resolve disputes through direct communication. Any agreements reached should be documented in writing to ensure clarity and prevent future complications.

If a mutually satisfactory resolution remains elusive, tenants, landlords, and agents in New South Wales can access our free tenancy and real estate complaint service. We are here to provide guidance and support in navigating the complexities of these issues.

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Resolving disputes through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal

The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal, often referred to as "the Tribunal," serves as an impartial entity responsible for hearing and adjudicating on various applications, particularly those submitted by tenants and landlords. If you find yourself in a situation where:

1. Mutual agreement remains elusive through Fair Trading's mediation efforts,
2. You seek a termination order, or
3. Your specific complaint falls outside the scope of matters handled by Fair Trading.

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Selling a residential property in New South Wales Part 1

Selling a residential property in New South Wales involves specific legal requirements and options for property owners. Whether you choose to list your property for sale by private treaty or go the auction route, it's essential to understand the intricacies of the process. Here's an overview of the key aspects you should be aware of when selling a property in the region

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Strata Parking Rules: What You Need to Know

If you're a resident in a strata property, it's crucial to be well-informed about your complex's parking rules.

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Pet Ownership in Strata: Your Rights and Responsibilities

If you're considering bringing a furry friend into your life while living in a strata property, it's essential to understand the rules and guidelines that govern pet ownership. Here's everything you need to know about pets in strata, from your rights to what to do if issues arise:

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Preparing for Construction and Renovation: Your Rights and Responsibilities

Undertaking a construction project or renovating your home can be an incredibly rewarding and thrilling experience. However, pausing all the excitement, you must be aware of your rights and responsibilities as a homeowner or builder.

In New South Wales, Fair Trading is the regulatory authority that oversees the home building industry, ensuring consumer protection during this significant phase of property development. This article highlights what you need to know when embarking on a construction or renovation journey.

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Can a Non-Australian Citizen Buy a Property in Australia?

Have you ever thought about purchasing property in Australia as a non-Australian citizen? There are numerous different rules you will need to consider when buying real estate in Australia, and our friendly team is on hand today to help you find out more about real estate in Sydney, New South Wales. Hopefully, this will help ensure you’re able to find the most effective property-buying solutions for your needs, accordingly.

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Breaking Lease Fees in New South Wales- The Legal Process

During the process of breaking a lease in NSW, there are many factors you need to consider. One of them is the cost. The costs of breaking a lease in NSW can be quite high. This is because it is a legal process and the repercussions of breaking a lease can affect future rental prospects.

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Know Your Local Council Regulations Before You Buy

Buying a property is an exciting and daunting proposition at the same time for most homebuyers, especially if you buy a home with the intention of doing it up yourself. Every local council in Australia has their own rules regarding additions and renovations in the home, so make sure you’re aware of them before you buy in certain suburbs.

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