From the CEO: 24th January 2023

With the potential for severe weather occurring in parts of Queensland over coming days, a reminder that real estate professionals can access the REIQ Disaster Toolkit. The toolkit provides guidance and advice to sales agents and property managers when it comes to responding to issues surrounding properties affected by natural disasters. REIQ members are reminded they can get in touch with our Property Management Support Service or Agency Advisory Service if they need assistance.

The REIQ last week released its Residential Vacancy Rate Report for the December 2023 quarter. The sad reality is that the consistently low vacancy rates in most markets barely moved over 2023. Rental properties are still too thin on the ground to provide comfortable choice for Queensland’s sizeable rental population. Find out more about our views here. In relation to the rental crisis, the REIQ is calling for a crackdown on the appalling black market of ‘backyard campsites’ for rent emerging in Queensland. We’re disturbed to see reports that backyards, garages and storage spaces are being advertised for rent for people to reside in. We would like to see the full force of the law coming down on these opportunistic people who are either ignorant of the law or are blatantly thumbing their noses at it. Find out more here.

Our partners at Carter Newell Lawyers have written a great article reminding real estate principals of their obligations when it comes to employees versus contractors in agencies. It’s a timely reminder that principals who engage a contractor under circumstances similar to that of an employment agreement will be exposed to prosecution for engaging in a sham contracting arrangement. You can read the article here.

Read more from Antonia Mercorella: From the CEO: 10th January 2024.

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