Guide to purchasing in a body corporate

Purchasing in a body corporate

Receive an
obligation-free proposal

We offer an obligation-free quote.

The first step is a short phone or in-person meeting to better understand the needs of your committee and scheme. This will only take around 10 minutes.

From there, we’ll put together a tailored proposal, including our easy-to-understand fee package.

Submit our proposal form, including the best contact time, and we’ll be in touch.

Receive an obligation
free proposal

We'll need to get some details about your building. Let us know the best time to contact you.

Receive an obligation-free proposal

We offer an obligation-free quote.

The first step is a short phone or in-person meeting to better understand the needs of your committee and scheme. This will only take around 10 minutes.

From there, we’ll put together a tailored proposal, including our easy-to-understand fee package.

Submit our proposal form, including the best contact time, and we’ll be in touch.

Receive an obligation
free proposal

We'll need to get some details about your building. Let us know the best time to contact you.

Purchasing within a body corporate can be an exciting journey, but it also requires careful consideration. Before you dive headfirst into purchasing a unit, it’s important to ensure that you’re well prepared. By following these steps, you’ll be better equipped to make a wise decision when purchasing a property within a body corporate.

1. Explore and connect

When purchasing in a body corporate, take the time to explore and connect with the community you’ll be living in. Here are a few things you can do:

  • Strike up conversations with current residents and the on-site manager or caretaker. They hold valuable insights about the community and can share their experiences and any concerns.
  • If you’re new to body corporate living in general, check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for a comprehensive overview of what you need to know.

2. Seek the expertise of a solicitor

Navigating the ins and outs of buying into a body corporate can be overwhelming. Ease your stress by enlisting the help of an experienced solicitor. They will guide you through the process and ensure you make well informed decisions.

3. Check the records

You have the right to inspect the body corporate records, and here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Reviewing the records can be intimidating, especially if you’re not sure what to look for. Simplify the process by hiring a body corporate records search agent. They’ll do the legwork for you and provide a written report with valuable advice.
  • Keep an eye out for any alterations made to the property. It’s important to ensure they have been approved, as you may be responsible for rectifying any unauthorised changes.

4. Balance the levies

Understanding the financial aspects of your purchase is key. Consider these points:

  • When you buy a property within a body corporate, you inherit the previous owners levy balance. Factor in any financial adjustments during your property settlement.
  • Familiarise yourself with the levies associated with the body corporate, including ongoing maintenance costs and other expenses. This will help you plan your budget effectively.

You may want to consider checking out our Complete Guide to Body Corporate Levies to learn more about levies, how they are calculated, where they go, and what services they provide.

5. Announce your arrival

After the dust settles on your property settlement, don’t forget to notify the body corporate of your purchase. This simple step ensures that you will receive all correspondence and benefits that come with joining the body corporate.  

Share This Post

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Is BCsystems your current body corporate manager?

More To Explore

Accountant
Committee advice

Spending limits for a body corporate committee

This article has been taken from he commissioner for the Body Corporate and Community Management Act and looks at spending limits in a body corporate – both committee spending limits and major spending limits.

Renovations
Maintenance

Making internal changes to your unit

Australians love to renovate. Whether you’re in a free-standing house, where the possibilities seem endless, or navigating the nuances of living within a body corporate community, the desire to personalise and enhance our homes is there. This article covers internal renovations to a townhouse or unit and what you can and can’t do without body corporate approval.