Real Estate Agency Law in Queensland

The book "Real Estate Agency Law in Queensland" by W. D. Duncan (with contributions from Sharon Christensen) is a comprehensive legal guide focused on the regulations and practices governing real estate agencies in Queensland, Australia. Here is a detailed overview of the book:

Key Themes

1. Regulatory Framework:

   • The book extensively covers the Property Occupations Act 2014 and Agents Financial Administration Act 2014, which are crucial for understanding the legal environment of real estate agencies in Queensland.
   • It also delves into the amended Land Sales Act 1984 and the Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997, highlighting the disclosure regimes and obligations of real estate agents.

2. Statutory Updates:

   • The book includes a decade of updates on all statutes affecting agency practice, including the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 and amendments to the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994.

3. Case Law and Legal Developments:

   • It provides an updated analysis of relevant case law up to the date of publication, ensuring that readers have access to the most current legal interpretations and decisions.

4. Electronic Conveyancing:

   • The book introduces electronic conveyancing in Queensland, reflecting the evolving nature of real estate transactions.

5. Standard Contracts of Sale:

   • It includes a detailed explanation of the current standard REIQ Contracts of Sale for Residential Land, Community Title, and commercial real estate transactions.

6. Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act 1975:

   • The book introduces the new regime established by amendments to the Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act 1975, which affects foreign sellers in real estate transactions.

Plot Summary

The book is structured to provide a thorough understanding of the legal framework governing real estate agencies in Queensland. It begins with an historical background to Queensland property law and legal system, followed by detailed chapters on title to land and the legal system. The main body of the book focuses on the regulatory acts and statutes that impact real estate agency practice, including the Property Occupations Act and Agents Financial Administration Act. It also covers the obligations of real estate agents under various disclosure regimes and the implications of electronic conveyancing. The book concludes with an update on relevant case law and statutory changes up to its publication date.

Critical Reception

While specific reviews are not provided in the sources, the book is described as an essential resource for anyone involved in the real estate industry in Queensland. Its comprehensive coverage of significant legal issues affecting agency practice makes it a valuable tool for practitioners, agents, and legal professionals.

Editions and Availability

The book is available in both paperback and eBook formats. The fifth edition, co-authored by W. D. Duncan and Sharon Christensen, is the latest version, fully updated to reflect the latest legal developments.

In summary, "Real Estate Agency Law in Queensland" by W. D. Duncan is a definitive guide that captures all significant legal issues affecting real estate agency practice in Queensland. Its comprehensive coverage, updated statutory analysis, and inclusion of relevant case law make it an indispensable resource for the real estate industry in the region.