you’ve answered your own question. If paying a little more for a separate wall will return more than its cost & improve saleability, why would you consider a common wall unless it is unavoidable?

If the total purchase price is not that great the effect of combining the two purchases likewise would not be significant.

Alternatively, you might buy the properties under two different entities. Again, seek legal/financial advice.

We're going to have a bigger Australia by 2050 regardless of what Jools or the Mad Monk say, it is not Kevin's big nation it was the Aus Bureau of Stats which came up with the numbers (they may know a little, not much granted).

As a nation, there needs to be planning for this capacity – in the 1960's & 70's the govt of the day did some planning on the growth of cities, growth corridors, satellite cities etc only to be overturned by short-sighted (live for the current term) modern governments.

If the population grows unchecked (without government intervention for infrastructure, land releases etc) then there is absolutely no way that the country can cope with 30 million let alone 50 million pax.

It is time to start turning towards large non-coastal cities, decentralisation, improved transport/power/water infrastructure to support such growth. Like it or not, the pollies will have little to do with the numbers only shaping where it goes and the quality of the slums that they create.

what shade of grey? Replacing the liner or the filter or cover etc is r&m, replacing the pool is capital.

If all else fails ie proof beyond doubt, visit the Office of State revenue website in the particular state (or speak to a conveyancer in the state just to sound them out).

Does the landlord own or have any interest in the dog? No.
Has the landlord consented to the dog being kept on the premises? Yes
Can the landlord put any conditions on the tenant when approving the dog eg insurance/indemnity? Yes.
Is it a dog which is deemed to be dangerous, eg pit bull/Staffy etc?

This can be part of your negotiation with prospective tenant, if they want the premises, they will concede esp if there is competition.

limbo, you will find that very few, if any commercial agents are open on weekends. You will need to make arrangements during the week esp if premises are occupied.

I’d suggest that JLL, colliers, Knight Frank & Hookers commercial or the web would be a good place to start

Budget Pest Inspections/Building Reports aren't worth the paper that they are written on ie they don't care if they miss the termite infestation or that bit of rising damp, leaking shower etc which has been painted over – sue them as they have no assets to claim against.

Contact David Hall Building Appraisals in Lane Cove – Member of MBA, expert witness etc.

If you want to have peace of mind for your parents, consider registering a caveat (in their favour). This will prevent you borrowing against the property without their consent (reducing their access to the property) but also affording you some protection by having a prior claim over the property as well.