Insights

One of the most searched property questions in Australia is also one of the hardest to answer accurately: “How much is my property worth?” Whether you’re buying, selling, refinancing, or simply planning ahead, understanding your property’s true value is critical. But not all valuation methods are equal — and relying on the wrong one can cost you tens of thousands of dollars. This guide explains: How property values are determined Why online estimates often miss the mark When

When dealing with property, not every valuation is about today’s market value. In many tax, legal and compliance situations, what really matters is what a property was worth at a specific point in the past . That’s where retrospective valuations  come in. Retrospective (or backdated) valuations are a specialist service designed to determine a property’s market value as at a nominated historical date . They’re commonly used for Capital Gains Tax (CGT), deceased estates, family

Strata unit entitlements play a critical role in how owners corporations operate, how costs are shared, and how value is allocated between lots. When entitlements are incorrect or outdated, disputes, inequities, and legal issues often follow. A strata unit entitlement valuation  provides an independent, evidence‑based assessment to determine fair and appropriate unit entitlements for each lot within a strata scheme. What Is a Strata Unit Entitlement? Unit entitlement represen

If you’ve received a land tax assessment that feels too high, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of property owners are charged land tax based on government-issued land valuations that don’t reflect reality . The good news? You can  dispute a land valuation — but only if you do it properly. What Is a Land Tax Valuation? Land tax is calculated using the unimproved land value  assessed by the Valuer General (or equivalent authority) as at a specific date. This valuation: I

Property valuations aren’t always about curiosity or market timing. In many legal and financial situations, a formal, independent valuation report is mandatory  — and using an estimate or agent opinion can create serious legal, tax, or financial problems. Here are the key scenarios where a professional valuation isn’t optional — and why getting it right matters. 1. Estate Planning & Deceased Estates When a property owner passes away, a valuation is often required for: Probate

When planning a property development or construction project, understanding costs upfront is critical. This is where a QS Cost Report , prepared by a Quantity Surveyor (QS) , becomes one of the most valuable tools in the process. At Propti , we work closely with experienced quantity surveyors to help clients gain clarity, confidence, and control over their project finances from start to finish. What Is a QS Cost Report? A QS Cost Report  is a detailed financial assessment of

Property valuations are a critical component of many legal matters, from family law and estate planning to disputes and SMSF compliance. However, for clients, the valuation process can often feel confusing, time-consuming and stressful — particularly when property is already a sensitive issue. For solicitors, simplifying the valuation process isn’t just about efficiency. It’s about reducing friction, managing expectations and ensuring valuations are independent, defensible an

When property is involved in family law matters, obtaining an independent, accurate and defensible property valuation  is critical. Whether it’s for divorce, separation, mediation or court proceedings, the valuation process must be handled carefully to ensure fairness, transparency and compliance with legal obligations. At Propti , we specialise in coordinating family law property valuations  through our national panel of qualified valuers , supporting both clients and solici

When buying or transferring property, stamp duty (also known as transfer duty) is one of the largest upfront costs. What many people don’t realise is that stamp duty is not always calculated on the sale price  — in many cases, it’s assessed on the market value of the property . This is where a property valuation for stamp duty  becomes essential. This guide explains: what a stamp duty valuation is when it’s required how market value is determined whether a desktop valuation c

Desktop property valuations have become a popular option for property owners, investors, accountants, and advisers who need a fast, cost-effective valuation  without the need for a physical inspection. At Propti , desktop valuations start from $595 , making them an efficient solution for many common valuation scenarios — provided they’re used in the right context. This guide explains: what a desktop valuation is how it works where it can be used (including stamp duty) and whe

A commercial property valuation  is an independent assessment of a commercial asset’s market value, conducted by a Certified Practising Valuer (CPV) . It determines the value of property such as: office buildings retail shops and shopping centres industrial warehouses mixed-use developments specialised commercial assets The valuation reflects the property’s highest and best use , income potential, location, lease profile, and prevailing market conditions. Why Commercial Prope

Swimming pools are a valuable asset in Australian homes—but they also come with strict safety obligations . Whether you’re selling, leasing, or buying a property with a pool, a pool inspection report  plays a critical role in ensuring compliance, reducing risk, and avoiding costly surprises. Here’s what you need to know. What Is a Pool Inspection Report? A pool inspection report  is a formal assessment carried out by a licensed pool inspector or certifier. It confirms whether

Insurance valuations are one of the most overlooked — yet critical — responsibilities for strata committees and owners corporations. With construction costs rising, insurance markets tightening, and underinsurance becoming a growing risk, ensuring your building is insured for the correct replacement value  has never been more important. At Propti, we regularly see strata buildings exposed to unnecessary financial risk simply because their insurance valuation is outdated or in

When relationships break down, property valuation becomes a critical part of the family law process. A family law valuation  provides an independent and objective assessment of a property’s market value, helping ensure assets are divided fairly and disputes are minimised. In family law matters, accuracy, independence, and credibility are essential. That’s why courts, solicitors, and mediators rely on formal valuation reports prepared by qualified professionals. What Is a Fami

A valuation for capital gains tax (CGT) purposes  is an independent property valuation used to determine the market value of a property at a specific point in time  for calculating capital gains tax. It is commonly required when a property is sold, transferred, inherited, or changes use. In many CGT scenarios, the purchase price is not available or cannot be used — making an independent valuation essential for tax compliance. What Is a Valuation for Capital Gains Tax Purposes

A valuation for stamp duty  is an independent property valuation used to determine the market value of a property for stamp duty purposes . It is often required when the transaction is not at arm’s length , such as family transfers, SMSF transactions, or off-market dealings. State Revenue Offices rely on independent valuations to ensure stamp duty is calculated on the true market value , not just the contract price. What Is a Valuation for Stamp Duty? A valuation for stamp du

An investment property depreciation report  is a professionally prepared tax document that allows property investors to claim depreciation deductions on a rental or income-producing property. It calculates how the building and its eligible assets decline in value over time and translates that into legitimate tax deductions under Australian tax law. Prepared by a qualified quantity surveyor , an investment property depreciation report is relied upon by accountants to ensure de

A building depreciation report  is a specialised tax document that allows property investors to claim depreciation deductions on the structural components  of an investment property. It focuses on the decline in value of the building itself and its permanent improvements over time. Prepared by a qualified quantity surveyor , a building depreciation report is an essential part of a broader property or tax depreciation report , and is relied upon by accountants to calculate acc

A property depreciation report  is a professionally prepared document that allows property investors to claim depreciation deductions on an investment property. It outlines how much value the property and its assets lose over time and how those losses can be claimed as tax deductions under Australian tax law. Prepared by a qualified quantity surveyor , a property depreciation report is a key tool used by accountants to ensure depreciation claims are accurate, compliant, and f

A depreciation report schedule  is a detailed breakdown of all the depreciation deductions a property investor can legally claim on an investment property. Prepared by a qualified quantity surveyor, it forms the backbone of a tax depreciation report  and is relied on by accountants to complete accurate, ATO-compliant tax returns. Understanding what’s included in a depreciation report schedule helps investors maximise deductions and avoid missing legitimate claims. What Is a D