Real Estate Questions & Answers
We’ve gathered the most common real estate questions buyers and sellers ask on the Gold Coast. Click on any question below to see the answer or explore our detailed guides.
What Is a Building and Pest Inspection?
A building and pest inspection identifies structural or pest issues before you buy a property. [Read full guide ➝]
What Are the Hidden Costs When Buying a Property?
Beyond the purchase price, buyers should budget for stamp duty, legal fees, inspections, and loan costs. [Read full guide ➝]
Fixed Versus Variable Interest Rate?
Fixed interest rates offer repayment certainty, while variable rates may fluctuate but often give more flexibility. [Read full guide ➝]
What Is the Cooling-Off Period?
In Queensland, most residential property contracts include a 5-business-day cooling-off period where buyers can withdraw, usually with a small penalty. [Read full guide ➝]
Sell or Buy First?
Deciding whether to sell or buy first depends on your finances, risk comfort, and market conditions. [Read full guide ➝]
How Much Can I Borrow for a Home Loan?
Your borrowing power depends on your income, expenses, deposit size, and lender policies. [Read full guide ➝]
How Do I Make an Offer on a Property in Queensland?
Offers are made in writing through the selling agent, usually via a signed contract of sale. [Read full guide ➝]
What Should I Look for During a Property Inspection?
Check structural integrity, signs of damage, electrical systems, plumbing, and pest issues. [Read full guide ➝]
What Is the Process of Buying a House in Queensland?
From finance approval to settlement, the process involves contract signing, cooling-off, searches, inspections, and final handover. [Read full guide ➝]
What Is a Mortgage Offset Account?
A mortgage offset account links to your home loan, reducing the interest charged on your loan balance. [Read full guide ➝]
How Much Is My House Worth?
Your home’s value depends on location, condition, recent sales, and market trends. [Read full guide ➝]
How to Choose the Right Gold Coast Real Estate Agent?
Look for proven results, strong marketing, negotiation skills, and client reviews. [Read full guide ➝]
What Are the Costs Involved in Selling a Property in Queensland?
Typical costs include marketing, legal fees, agent commission, and potential repairs. [Read full guide ➝]
When Is the Best Time to Sell My House on the Gold Coast?
Spring often sees more buyers, but the best time depends on your property type and market conditions. [Read full guide ➝]
Should I Buy a New Build or an Existing Property?
New builds offer modern features and warranties, while existing homes may provide better value and established locations. [Read full guide ➝]
Selling Gold Coast Property: Legal Steps Explained
Selling a property involves contracts, disclosure requirements, and compliance with Queensland’s Property Occupations Act. [Read full guide ➝]
Do I Need Council Approval Before Selling My Gold Coast Property?
In most cases, you don’t need council approval to sell, but unapproved structures or renovations may cause issues. [Read full guide ➝]
What Is Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)?
LMI protects the lender when buyers borrow more than 80% of a property’s value, but it adds to upfront costs. [Read full guide ➝]
What Is Conveyancing, and Why Is It Important?
Conveyancing is the legal transfer of property ownership, ensuring all contracts and searches are correctly handled. [Read full guide ➝]
What Is Bridging Finance?
Bridging finance is a short-term loan that lets you buy a new property before selling your existing one. [Read full guide ➝]
What Are the Common Issues Found During Property Inspections?
Inspections often uncover pest activity, structural damage, water leaks, and electrical or plumbing problems. [Read full guide ➝]
Do I Need to Pay GST When Selling My Gold Coast Property?
Most existing residential homes are GST-free, but GST may apply to new builds, vacant land, or commercial property sales. [Read full guide ➝]
Selling Property? Do I Need an ATO Clearance Certificate?
Yes, sellers of property over $750,000 must provide an ATO clearance certificate to avoid the 12.5% withholding tax. [Read full guide ➝]