Appointing a property agent

A property agent—also called a residential letting agent or real estate agent—can manage your rental property on your behalf. But you must appoint them first.

Choosing an agent

Real estate agents must have a licence to work in Queensland. Always ask to see their real estate agent's licence before appointing them as your property manager.

When choosing your agent:

• read the appointment form carefully
• get a list of the services they'll do for you
• consider their commissions, fees and charges.

Seek independent legal advice if you're unclear about any part of the form or the fees you'll be charged.

Also ask them about their procedures for:

• doing maintenance or repairs, including issuing quotes and receipts
• handling complaints
• ending a tenancy, including evictions—find out how long rent can go unpaid before any action is taken.

How to appoint a property agent

To appoint a property agent, complete 1 of these forms:

• Residential agent appointment or reappointment (form 6)
• Commercial agent appointment or reappointment (form 6A).

The real estate agent should be able to give you a copy.

The form sets out:

• how much the real estate agent will charge for their services
• any other costs they could incur on your behalf (e.g. advertising)
• when your payments to the agent are due
• what services the agent will provide and how.

In most cases, you'll appoint them on a continuing basis—this type of appointment has no defined end date.

Remember to seek independent legal advice if you have any concerns.

Their responsibilities

A property manager must:

• respond quickly to requests for maintenance or repairs
• act in your best interests, including when getting quotes
• make sure any repairers—such as builders, carpenters or electricians—have relevant licences
• have a procedure for handling complaints and comply with it
• carry out inspections and make reports and inventories
• accompany and guide prospective tenants on their inspections (unless you tell them otherwise in writing).

Maintain regular contact with your agent and alert them to any issues.

Ending an appointment

You won't need to state an end date for a continuing appointment.

Either you or the agent can end an agreement by giving written notice to the other party. You must give them a minimum 30 days' notice—or less than 30 days if both parties agree.

If you enter into a new agreement with a new agent before your current appointment ends, you may be liable to pay either:

• commission under both appointments
• damages for breach of contract.

You should seek independent legal advice to make sure you end the appointment properly.