Changes to property regulations are beginning to reshape how buyers and sellers operate across several states. While each reform targets a specific issue, together they point to a broader shift towards transparency and accountability.

In New South Wales, sellers will soon be required to provide a price or price guide when listing a property. This move is aimed at reducing underquoting, a practice that has long frustrated buyers.

Penalties are also being strengthened. Fines for underquoting will increase from $22,000 to $110,000, or three times the agent’s commission, depending on which is greater. That level of enforcement is designed to deter misleading pricing strategies.

There are also tougher penalties for dummy bidding at auctions, another area where buyer confidence has been tested in the past.

Victoria is taking a different approach. Proposed changes would require vendors to pay for building and pest inspections before listing their property. In addition, final sale prices will need to be publicly disclosed once transactions become unconditional.

These changes are designed to give buyers better access to information. With clearer data upfront, buyers can make more informed decisions and reduce the risk of unexpected issues.

Western Australia has expanded its stamp duty concessions, particularly for off the plan and under construction properties. By including smaller developments such as duplexes, the scheme becomes accessible to a wider range of buyers.

Tasmania has joined the Federal Help to Buy scheme, allowing eligible buyers to enter the market with as little as a 2% deposit. This type of initiative lowers the barrier to entry, particularly for first home buyers.

For buyers, these changes can improve transparency and reduce uncertainty. For sellers, they introduce new compliance requirements and expectations.

The broader trend is clear. Property markets are becoming more regulated, with a stronger focus on fairness and clarity. Staying informed is esse