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Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common property questions in South Australia. Choose a topic below and open any question to read the answer.

General information only. Your agreement, property and circumstances may affect the answer; for legal questions, refer to current South Australian guidance or seek professional advice.

Buying a Property

From inspections and offers to contracts, cooling-off and settlement.

How much deposit should I plan to have ready?

The deposit amount and payment timing depend on the contract and your finance arrangements. In South Australia, the contract deposit is generally payable after any applicable cooling-off period. Have a conveyancer review the contract before committing.

What other expenses come with purchasing a home?

Budget for transfer duty if applicable, conveyancing, finance fees, inspections, insurance, moving expenses and adjustments at settlement. Eligible first-home buyers may qualify for South Australian stamp duty relief on certain new homes or land.

Will I need to pay stamp duty?

Transfer duty can apply to South Australian property purchases, but concessions or exemptions may be available. Check your eligibility and the current rules with RevenueSA and your conveyancer.

When should I arrange building and pest inspections?

Arrange inspections within the deadlines expressly stated in your contract. The permitted timeframe is not automatically the same for every purchase, so discuss appropriate conditions with your conveyancer before signing.

How do I submit an offer?

Contact the listing agent with your proposed price, settlement date and any conditions. Have a conveyancer explain the sale contract, vendor’s statement and your obligations before you sign.

How can I inspect a property advertised for sale?

Follow the inspection details on the listing or contact MC Property Plus to ask about the next open inspection or an appointment.

How are council rates and other outgoings handled?

Rates, water charges and other property outgoings are commonly adjusted between the buyer and seller at settlement. Your conveyancer will check the applicable amounts and settlement statement.

Should I appoint a conveyancer or solicitor?

Professional conveyancing advice is strongly recommended. Your adviser can review the Form 1 vendor’s statement, conduct searches, explain contract conditions and arrange the ownership transfer.

What is the difference between joint tenancy and tenancy in common?

Joint tenants generally hold the property together with a right of survivorship. Tenants in common hold specified shares that may pass under their estates. Seek legal advice before choosing an ownership structure.

What does it mean when a sale becomes unconditional?

An unconditional contract is one for which the relevant conditions have been satisfied or waived. Your conveyancer can explain when this happens and what it means for your deposit and settlement obligations.

What happens on settlement day?

Settlement is when the purchase completes, funds are exchanged and ownership is transferred. Your conveyancer and lender normally coordinate the process and confirm when you can collect keys.

Is a pest inspection worthwhile?

A pest inspection can identify risks that may not be apparent during a viewing. Consider independent building and pest reports before your contract conditions or cooling-off rights expire.

Who can help me organise finance?

Speak with your lender or a licensed mortgage broker early. Where finance approval is still pending, ask your conveyancer whether a finance condition is appropriate.

Does South Australia have a cooling-off period?

For many residential purchases by offer, a buyer has two clear business days to cool off. Exceptions apply, including auction purchases. The period is linked to the signed contract and delivery of the Form 1, whichever occurs later. Obtain legal advice about the deadline and method of giving notice.

For official South Australian guidance: Buying a home (SA Government).

Selling Your Property

Questions about appraisals, agents, campaigns and the sale process.

How is an asking price or appraisal prepared?

An agent considers location, condition, improvements, recent comparable sales and current competition. An appraisal is a market estimate rather than a guaranteed sale price.

How will my home be marketed?

A campaign may include professional photographs, listing portals, the agency website, signage and social media. MC Property Plus should confirm the proposed channels, costs and approval process in writing before advertising.

Are open inspections or private viewings better?

Both can be useful. Open inspections accommodate several buyers at an advertised time, while appointments allow tailored access. The right approach depends on the home, campaign and occupants.

What does the agent do during an inspection?

The agent presents the property, answers buyer questions, records appropriate feedback and follows up on genuine interest, while respecting the privacy of sellers and occupants.

What does a selling agent manage?

A selling agent can advise on presentation and marketing, organise inspections, communicate offers and negotiate on the seller’s behalf within the authority granted by the agency agreement.

What is an exclusive agency agreement?

An exclusive agreement appoints an agency for a specified period under terms that may affect commission entitlements. Review the agreement closely, including the duration, fees and termination provisions, before signing.

What is an open agency arrangement?

An open arrangement can involve more than one agency. The commission rules and who is entitled to payment depend on the agreements signed. Seek advice if considering multiple agents.

How long might it take to sell?

Time on market depends on price, presentation, property type, buyer demand and local competition. Comparable sales are more useful than a fixed guarantee.

What does overcapitalising mean?

Overcapitalising happens when improvement costs are not matched by the sale-price increase. Ask for advice before undertaking expensive work solely to prepare a home for sale.

Can I sell while tenants are living at the property?

Yes, but the tenancy and South Australian notice, advertising, inspection and privacy rules must be respected. Fixed-term agreements can continue despite a change of owner. Get advice before promising vacant possession.

Will commission apply if I find my own buyer?

It depends on the agency agreement, the marketing arrangements and how the buyer was introduced. Review the written terms with your agent or solicitor.

Can I sell privately without appointing an agent?

A property owner can choose to sell privately, but must still meet relevant legal and disclosure obligations. Professional advice is valuable for contracts, pricing and negotiation.

What does the sales agency agreement cover?

It should explain the agent’s authority, proposed sale method, commission, marketing expenses, appointment period and termination provisions. Seek independent advice about anything unclear.

What is a sole agency arrangement?

The expression can have a particular meaning in agency agreements. Do not assume it allows a private sale without commission; rely on the actual signed terms and legal advice.

Does a seller get a cooling-off period?

South Australian sellers generally do not receive a cooling-off period once a binding contract is signed. Buyers may have rights in some private treaty sales. Ask your conveyancer before signing.

For official South Australian guidance: Selling your home (SA Government).

Renting Out Your Property

Practical information for Adelaide rental property owners.

How is the right weekly rent determined?

A rental appraisal considers comparable leases, available competing properties, location, condition and current tenant demand. The aim is a sustainable return without unnecessary vacancy.

Can I advertise at a higher rent than recommended?

You can discuss your preferred figure with the agency. Pricing above comparable properties may reduce enquiry and extend vacancy, which affects the annual return.

Where will the rental property be advertised?

Advertising channels should be agreed in the management authority. Ask MC Property Plus to confirm the platforms, photography, approval requirements and any advertising charges.

How should the home be prepared for new tenants?

A well-maintained, safe and reasonably clean property photographs and presents better. Address known maintenance issues before inspections and prepare the required entry-condition records.

How do prospective tenants apply?

Applicants ordinarily submit a rental application and consent to relevant checks. MC Property Plus can confirm the approved application method and what information is needed.

What should I do if a prospective tenant contacts me directly?

For consistency and privacy, ask them to apply through the agency rather than assessing their information yourself.

How are rental applications assessed?

An agency may consider affordability, rental history, references and other relevant checks, subject to privacy and anti-discrimination requirements. No one check guarantees a tenancy outcome.

Can an unsuccessful applicant request feedback?

Applicants can contact the agency about the application process. Disclosure of another person’s information is restricted, and the agency must comply with applicable law and privacy obligations.

Who approves the chosen tenant?

Selection responsibilities depend on the management authority. The agent can present suitable applications and recommendations for the owner’s decision.

Can a property manager guarantee a tenant?

No screening process can eliminate all risk. Careful selection, tenancy management, inspections and appropriate insurance can help manage exposure.

What standard of cleanliness is expected at commencement?

The property should be provided in a reasonably clean condition and meet relevant legal requirements. An accurate ingoing condition report helps establish its state.

What does a new tenant need to know?

Key information includes rent arrangements, how to report repairs, emergency contacts, permitted use, inspection procedures and the South Australian tenant information guide.

What paperwork starts the tenancy?

A tenancy agreement and the applicable condition, bond and statutory information documents should be completed as required by South Australian law.

When can new tenants collect their keys?

Possession and key handover should follow the agreed start date, completed paperwork and lawful initial payment arrangements.

What rules apply if tenants want pets?

In South Australia, a pet request can only be refused on specified legal grounds. There is a formal application process, response deadlines and scope for reasonable conditions.

Can I require a pet to stay outdoors?

Conditions about pets must be reasonable and lawful. A blanket restriction should not be imposed without considering the South Australian rules and the animal and premises involved.

How is rent collected and disbursed?

Your management agreement should describe approved payment methods, trust accounting, statements and the schedule for transferring funds to your nominated account.

What happens when a tenant falls behind in rent?

The agent should contact the tenant, monitor arrears and use the lawful South Australian notice and dispute process where appropriate. Queensland notice timelines do not apply.

How often can the rent be reviewed?

Reviews should reflect market conditions and comply with South Australian restrictions on increases and notice. Your property manager can advise when the next increase is lawful.

Is there an inspection at the start of a tenancy?

An entry-condition record, supported by photographs and notes where appropriate, provides a baseline for later inspections and any bond discussion.

How often can routine inspections occur?

South Australian landlords generally may conduct up to four routine inspections in a year, with the prescribed written notice and entry conditions.

How much bond can be requested?

The maximum depends on the applicable South Australian rules and rent amount. Bonds are lodged with Consumer and Business Services, not Queensland’s RTA.

Can an extra pet bond be collected?

A separate pet bond is not permitted for private residential tenancies in South Australia. Other pet approval rules still apply.

Who pays for maintenance and repairs?

Owners are generally responsible for required maintenance and repairs, while tenants can be liable for damage they cause beyond fair wear and tear. Responsibility depends on the facts and law.

How are urgent repairs managed outside office hours?

Tenants should use the nominated urgent repair contact and report the problem promptly. The agency’s after-hours arrangements should be confirmed in the management agreement.

What counts as normal wear and tear?

Reasonable ageing from ordinary use is different from avoidable or deliberate damage. Age, condition at commencement, duration and evidence all matter.

What if a tenant damages the property?

Keep records and photographs, arrange appropriate repairs and determine whether the damage goes beyond fair wear and tear before considering lawful recovery.

Who is responsible for smoke alarms?

South Australian smoke alarm obligations must be met by the relevant property owner and occupants. Have the installation and servicing requirements checked against current state guidance.

Are there special smoke alarm specifications?

Requirements depend on the dwelling and applicable standards. Obtain advice from a qualified provider and use South Australian guidance, rather than Queensland-specific smoke alarm rules.

Who looks after the lawns and gardens?

Check the tenancy agreement and the division of responsibilities for routine gardening, major pruning and property maintenance. Do not assume all outside work belongs to the tenant.

Who clears gutters or handles tree pruning?

High-risk or specialist work should be arranged safely and in accordance with owner obligations and the agreement. The property manager can coordinate a suitable contractor.

Who decides whether to renew the tenancy?

The owner and manager should review the lease, tenant circumstances and lawful options before approaching the tenant about renewal.

Can a fixed-term tenancy simply be ended without a reason?

South Australian law requires particular grounds and notice procedures for many landlord-initiated terminations. Do not rely on older Queensland guidance about ending a tenancy without grounds.

What happens when a tenant moves out?

The vacate process includes return of keys, rent reconciliation, a final condition assessment and any lawful bond claims, taking fair wear and tear into account.

How much notice must tenants give to leave?

It depends on whether the agreement is fixed-term, periodic, or being ended for a special reason. The South Australian forms and notice periods should be checked for the particular situation.

Who pays the costs if a fixed-term lease ends early?

South Australian rules allow some reasonable and properly calculated re-letting, advertising and rental loss claims, subject to mitigation and other limits. The amount is not automatically the full remaining rent.

What happens if tenancy conditions are breached?

The response depends on the nature of the issue and required notice process. The agent should document the concern and use South Australian legal procedures.

Should I have landlord insurance?

Consider specialist cover for risks such as malicious damage, loss of rent and liability. Read the exclusions, limits and claim requirements carefully.

Does having a good tenant make insurance unnecessary?

Even reliable tenancies can be affected by unforeseen events. Insurance decisions should reflect the property and your appetite for financial risk.

What may landlord insurance cover?

Policies vary and may cover certain rental losses or tenant-related damage. Confirm the actual insured events, exclusions and excesses with the insurer.

Who pays for electricity and gas?

Utilities and supply obligations depend on the metering, lease terms and South Australian law. Your manager should confirm which charges can be passed to tenants.

Who is responsible for water charges?

Water usage and supply charges are treated differently and depend on the applicable South Australian rules, metering and agreement. Confirm chargeability before invoicing a tenant.

Should I arrange regular termite inspections?

Regular pest assessments can identify developing problems early, particularly where the property or surroundings present a risk. Check your building insurance exclusions.

What information appears on owner statements?

Statements normally summarise income, expenses, fees and disbursements. Ask MC Property Plus for the statement timetable and available online access.

What if I lose a financial statement?

Contact the managing agency to request another copy or ask whether an owner portal is available.

Can I sell while my property has a tenant?

Yes, subject to tenancy terms, tenant notification, marketing and entry restrictions. The lease may continue after sale. South Australian rules govern any request for vacant possession.

What if I or a family member wants to move in?

Ending a tenancy for owner occupation involves specific grounds, notices and evidence in South Australia. Seek advice well before setting a move-in date.

What happens if the tenancy is periodic?

A periodic agreement runs until it is lawfully ended. The permissible grounds, forms and minimum notice depend on the reason for ending it.

Can the agency assist with selling my investment?

MC Property Plus advertises sales services as well as property management. Contact the team to discuss a sale and how to coordinate it with any existing tenancy.

How can I transfer management from another agent?

Review the notice and termination terms of the current management authority. A new agency can explain the handover of keys, tenancy records, trust balances and contact details.

Where can I check current tenancy rules?

Use the South Australian Government’s private rental information and Consumer and Business Services guidance for current rules and forms. The relevant tribunal is SACAT, not QCAT.

For official South Australian guidance: Renting privately (SA Government).

For Tenants

Everyday rental questions about payments, repairs, pets and moving.

What should I do if something is accidentally damaged?

Report it to your property manager promptly and in writing. Include photographs where helpful, and discuss repairs before arranging changes or replacing fixtures.

May I alter or improve the rental property?

Ask your property manager about the applicable approval process before making changes. Rights relating to alterations and modifications depend on the type of work and current South Australian rules.

Can I put picture hooks or decorations on walls?

Small changes may still need approval or conditions. Describe what you want to install and seek written confirmation rather than assuming all picture hooks are permitted.

What does rent paid in advance actually mean?

Advance rent is credited against rent falling due from the tenancy start. Check your rent ledger and agreement rather than assuming a payment always keeps you two weeks ahead.

When and how should I pay rent?

Follow the amount, frequency and payment details in your agreement. South Australian landlords must provide at least one fee-free electronic payment option.

How is my bond refunded?

At the end of the tenancy, bond release or a claim is handled through South Australia’s Consumer and Business Services. Keep your entry report, receipts and exit-condition evidence.

Can another person move in with me?

Talk to your property manager before changing the named tenants or occupants. Adding someone to the agreement or bond may require documentation and consent.

What happens if I need to end my lease early?

Contact the agency promptly. Breaking a fixed-term agreement can involve reasonable costs and rent loss subject to South Australian law and the owner’s obligation to mitigate loss.

How do I request permission for a pet?

South Australia has a prescribed pet application and response process. Landlords may refuse only on specified grounds and must respond within the required timeframe.

Must I be at home during a routine inspection?

You are not ordinarily required to attend, but the landlord or agent must follow South Australian notice, entry and privacy requirements. Make arrangements for any pets and access concerns.

What should I do if a smoke alarm stops working?

Report beeping, faults or missing alarms immediately. Do not disable the alarm. Follow the supplied tenancy guidance on testing and maintenance.

Can I install a portable pool or spa?

Seek advice and written approval before installing any pool or spa. Safety barriers, council rules, insurance and tenancy conditions may apply.

Should I take out contents insurance?

A landlord’s building cover generally does not insure a tenant’s personal belongings. Consider contents insurance for theft, fire and other insured events.

For official South Australian guidance: Tenancy information and forms (SA Government).

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