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What to investigate before you bid on a rate-sale property in Australia. Buyers generally cannot inspect the interior of occupied properties — which is why doing your homework beforehand is essential.
Before you bid on any rate-sale property in Australia: order a title search to identify encumbrances; confirm legal access (some rural blocks are landlocked); check the zoning for your intended use; assess environmental risk (remediation obligations run with the land); contact the council about unapproved works or outstanding breaches; and set a firm maximum bid in advance — bidding on impulse is the most common mistake investors make.
Generally you cannot inspect occupied properties before you bid
Unlike a normal property purchase, rate-sale buyers generally have no right to enter or inspect occupied properties. Your due diligence is limited to external observation, public records, and satellite or aerial imagery. This risk should be reflected in your maximum bid.
Request the court file, or view it online where available. Order a current title search from the Land Titles Office to confirm ownership and encumbrances.
Contact the liquidator named in the notice directly. Check whether the notice bundles several lots with different titles.
Check the current rateable / land value from the council or Valuer-General. Confirm whether any prior encumbrances survive the sale.
Explore active rate-sale properties across the states and territories of Australia.