Author Archives for Peter Mericka

Fair Trading Nabs False Solicitor

January 11, 2008 5:00 pm Published by Comments Off on Fair Trading Nabs False Solicitor Fair Trading may have made legal history when it laid these “marketeering” charges, in circumstances of apparent illegal property conveyancing, because no other action was taken by the Legal Services Commissioner under the protective legislation he polices.

Deep North Agents “Re-licensed” to Practise Real Estate Law

January 10, 2008 5:06 pm Published by Comments Off on Deep North Agents “Re-licensed” to Practise Real Estate Law From July 1st last year the role of Queensland real estate agents in preparing contracts was severely limited by law. Sit back, dear readers, as I now blow the whistle on an extraordinary government back-flip.

Max Brown Real Estate: Dodgy Advice & Conflicting Interests

January 8, 2008 5:11 pm Published by Comments Off on Max Brown Real Estate: Dodgy Advice & Conflicting Interests It is fitting that the logo of Max Brown Real Estate should depict the estate agent as a shadowy faceless figure, as it suggests the level of responsibility the estate agent assumes when 'advising' vulnerable consumers.

Gold Coast Law Association Slams Agents And Calls For Contract Reforms

December 9, 2007 3:52 am Published by Comments Off on Gold Coast Law Association Slams Agents And Calls For Contract Reforms Chief Justice of Queensland Paul de Jersey has warned my State’s lawyers, when they write letters of demand on behalf of clients, to be careful before resorting to any “even arguably threatening conduct”

Estate Agents Revolt Against Toothless Tiger

November 29, 2007 4:02 am Published by Comments Off on Estate Agents Revolt Against Toothless Tiger It's not often that I have to agree with the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV), but they have a point when they question the competence and resolve of Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV).

Great Rate, With A Terrible Headache

November 28, 2007 4:10 am Published by Comments Off on Great Rate, With A Terrible Headache Imagine my client’s glee when he received pre-approval for a loan to buy his first home. The broker had found him a low rate - he hadn’t been able to borrow enough from the major lenders - and had promised the world.

Ho-Hum Bodies Corporate Up For An Overhaul

November 5, 2007 4:16 am Published by Comments Off on Ho-Hum Bodies Corporate Up For An Overhaul The mundane life of large bodies corporate will be shaken up at the start of next year when the Owners Corporations Act 2006 takes effect.

Pricing Propaganda From REIV

September 28, 2007 4:20 am Published by Comments Off on Pricing Propaganda From REIV In a typically arroagent approach to real estate sales, the REIV ignores what consumers want, and tells estate agents.

When Does a Purchaser pay the Agent’s Commission?

June 28, 2007 5:07 am Published by Comments Off on When Does a Purchaser pay the Agent’s Commission? Purchasers don't expect to have to pay an estate agent's commission, but what if the contract is booby-trapped with a special condition that requires the purchaser to indemnify the vendor?