Page 31 - Real estate: a guide for buyers and sellers
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Locating and inspecting properties
BUYER’S TIP Assessing the sustainability of homes
If the property has been renovated or Sustainable housing features can affect the
extended, check the vendor’s statement comfort of your home and energy costs.
and contact the local council to check Features such as rainwater tanks or solar
whether relevant planning or building hot water are now found in an increasing
permits were obtained. number of new and older homes.
Any illegal alterations may become your There is a 6-star energy efficiency standard
responsibility once the contract is signed. for all new homes, and for renovations,
additions and relocations of existing homes.
Be cautious of any property inspection
report offered by the agent or the seller. New homes must have:
The independence of a report is only
guaranteed if it is obtained specifically by • 6-star energy rating for the building
and for the buyer. fabric including the roof, walls, floor
and windows
The fee for a professional inspection
service is small compared with the cost of • 6-star energy rating for fixed lighting
unforeseen and expensive repairs. Even but not plug in appliances
if no major faults are found, minor faults
can be identified for future maintenance • a rainwater tank for toilet flushing or
if you buy the property. a solar hot water system.
Pest inspections Renovations, additions and relocations
must have a 6-star energy rating for the
You should also consider a professional building fabric, but do not require a
pest inspection. rainwater tank or a solar hot water system.
If a renovation or addition is more than
For a full list of local councils with 50 per cent of the volume of an existing
designated termite areas, visit house, the whole building needs to be
buildingcommission.com.au, or ask the upgraded to a 6-star standard.
council for an updated status report.
For new apartments, the average is a
6-star energy rating for the whole block
with a minimum of 5-star for individual
apartments.
When buying an established home,
consider the benefits of sustainable
features that can reduce running costs,
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and add
to the value of a property.
For information about the energy
efficiency features to look for in a home,
go to makeyourhomegreen.vic.gov.au.
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