PERTH’S challenging property market conditions have seen calls to the REIWA Information Service increase significantly over the past few years, up about 9 per cent since 2014-15.
In the year to September, the institute received 250 more calls than the same period last year.
About 70 per cent were from landlords and tenants, with the remainder relating to residential sales.
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READ NOW“It’s been an interesting couple of years in the WA property market, with both the sales and rental markets facing challenges simultaneously,” REIWA chief executive Neville Pozzi said.
“This has naturally led to an increase in the volume of calls the REIWA Information Service has received as sellers, buyers, tenants and landlords navigate this unique marketplace.”
The information service provides West Australians with direct access to local industry experts who can help answer questions and resolve issues.
Calls are answered by two full-time staff members and 70 local REIWA members who volunteer three hours of their time every few months.
The most common questions in 2017 from tenants related to the early termination of their rental lease, what rights landlords have to enter their property while it is tenanted and what rights they have with regards to repairs and maintenance of the property they rent.
Landlords generally sought information on the tenant’s obligation to pay rent, find out how the court system works to claim damages from a tenant, and to clarify their rights around abandoned goods.
Homebuyers wanted details about their obligations to obtain finance approval within a period of time or to clarify their rights for the pre-settlement inspection.
Sellers most frequently called to find out about the settlement process, satisfying contractual conditions and buyer requests which were not addressed in the contract.
Top rental real estate queries
- Early lease termination
- Rights of landlords to enter properties
- Responsibility for maintenance and repairs
- Rent obligations
- Claiming damages from tenants
- Landlords’ rights around abandoned goods
Need property help?
Members of the WA public who are dealing with a REIWA agent can direct their real estate queries and concerns to the REIWA Information Service on 9380 8200 from Monday to Friday between 9am and 5pm.
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