As the Perth Nigerian house scam demonstrates the best defence against identity is constant vigilance. But it seems Australians aren’t getting the message. In a recent Newspoll survey an alarming 75% of Australians regularly throw away highly sensitive information without shredding or disposing of them safely. These include utility bills, bank statements, expired credit cards …
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Five government agencies have launched a joint investigation into recent real estate scams to determine if extra protections are necessary to prevent identity theft in the buying and selling of property and the land titles system in Western Australia. The Commercial Crime Division of WA Police, Consumer Protection, Landgate, the Real Estate and Business Agents Supervisory Board (REBA) …
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This updated advisory has just come through from the Settlement Agents’ Supervisory Board and is a timely warning for both real estate and settlement agents. Recent events have prompted a further scam alert being issued by the Chairwoman of the Settlement Agents Supervisory Board (the Board), Ms Mirina Muir. Ms Muir advised that following on from …
Knowing your client has taken on a new meaning in the wake of a recent scam where a Perth investor had his property sold without his knowledge. Now, more than ever, it’s essential for both real estate and settlement agents to carefully identify their clients. Agents should, where possible, meet their clients personally. A 100-point …
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The recent case of a man losing his house as a result of a Nigerian real estate scam highlights the need for increased vigilance by everyone involved in real estate transactions. Although it’s the first time such a crime has been committed in Australia, it’s by no means the first fraud involving a forged property …
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AAP It is estimated that around 469,000 households will be suffering mortgage discomfort by December and the number of those in severe stress (facing a potential sale, foreclosure or forced refinance) could be as high as 267,000. How can at-risk borrowers stay out of trouble, save money and own their property sooner? Spokesperson for Mortgage …
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Termites. The mere mention of the word can cause homeowner hysteria. These pesky insects silently invade your home and can leave you with a staggering repair bill. Unfortunately we do a lot of things that can attract termites to our homes. Here are a few tips to stave off a full blown attack. Keep wood …
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Fretting mortar is a common problem for brick and stone homes, especially in homes built up until the late seventies. Essentially it’s where the mortar between brickwork begins to ‘fret’ or fall away. If you spot it early there’s a good chance you can escape any major structural damage and a potentially large repair bill. …
Just in from the Australian Institute of Conveyancers WA is this timely advice for settlement agents: It has come to the attention of the Institute that there is some confusion regarding Clause 5 of the Joint Form of General Conditions for the Sale of Land 2009. The Clause allows for “One Final Inspection” for the …
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Buying a home is a big financial decision. Going into the process blind can lead to some very unfortunate outcomes so your best bet is to arm yourself with knowledge and be prepared for anything. Here are a few things to consider before buying a home. Don’t over-extend yourself financially As a homebuyer, one of …