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I think you need to see this web page on the ATO site.
The Real Estate Institute in your state should have standard contracts for the sale of land.
THe law society in your state may have them too.
Standard contracts in each state will vary.
Re Wooden floors
If you can afford it, go for a marble feeling floor. Wood is better than carpet, but extremely problematic when furniture is moved around and fixing a deep scratch may also be problematic. If you’re renting the place out, you don’t want to have to deal with inspection reports that detail every scratch on the floor.
Sometimes air conditioning and changes in humidity will affect gaps between wooden planks as well. And not all furniture is compatible with wooden flooring.
Definitely agree that lighting makes a big difference. Firstly make sure the kitchen is well lit.
Having adjustable halogen lights adds value – but if you use special light globes don’t forget to tell your tenant / buyer where to buy the replacements from.
Having the right lights in the right place for features, artwork or just for mood lighting also make a difference.
Also pay attention to air circulation and windows – especially if the property is an apartment.
Floor to ceiling built-in robes are a must.
A bathroom design that is easy to clean and that easily airs is also desirable.
OH – A BIG mistake will be having a fridge space that is too small for some of the fridges out there. NOthing more frustrating than having a fridge that won’t fit into your new place. Do your research and make sure hte fridge space is right!
An additional nice touch would be to have hooks on the wall when people first enter the property so that coats, bags etc can be hung up.
Also pay attention to shower heads. The more adjustable, the better. And access to gas hot water is a must.
Hi there, I’m not a seasoned renovator, but I am a seasoned renter and sub-letter. The special touches make all the difference (it’s also why I’m having a lot of trouble finding a better place to live in right now for the rent that I pay!). One of the features I love about the apartment is that one of the bathrooms has been split into 2 half bathrooms – the toilet and its vanity is separated from the bath/shower/vanity2. Having curtains instead of blinds gives the city apartment a more homely feel. Anything that makes for an open kitchen adds space. I personally prefer a marble feel to the floor instead of carpet or wooden floorboards – it adds a touch of luxury and much easier to maintain wihtout as much worry about scratches. You might also want to add value by placing paintings / pictures on the walls and some plants where appropriate – tenants can always remove or return them to you if they don’t like them – but in the meantime they make immediate impact when tenants enter the room even if there is no furniture. Cheaper than chainging the colour of wall each time, and easily and effectively changes the mood / feel to whatever you want. The kitchen hose-tap is a domestic dream. Extra shelving space and storage space is always appreciated – there are great ideas around. So too are facilities for foxtel, tv & ADSL in every bedroom as well as living areas. Oh – and make sure there’s air conditioning available everywhere. Adjustable pressure shower head fittings can also be great opportunity to ‘WOW’.
Good Luck!
