Investing? Buying's the Fun Part. But Plan For No-Fun Fees! 

Buying property can be very exciting, but the associated taxes, fees and charges can add thousands to the cost. Plan ahead to avoid unpleasant surprises or hardship. 

Lending
Nearly all lenders charge an establishment fee of between $600 and $1,000 on new home loans. Some will waive this fee to get your business (so you could pay in some other way, there being no such thing as a free lunch). Most banks also charge monthly or annual account fees. 

Inspections
Before purchase, it's wise to get inspections for the building and for pests. Building inspections cost from $250 for a small house or flat, to more than $1,000 for a large property. Pest inspections cost around $250. 

Stamp Duty
Stamp duty is payable on real property acquisitions AND on the contract of finance you have with the bank. For Queensland property, there are three rates: non-owner-occupied, owner-occupied and concessional. 

Legals
"Conveyancing" is the term for the legal transfer of ownership, and solicitors, professional conveyancers or estate agents generally do this, for a fee of $600-$800 for an average-priced home. 

You can do it yourself with a special kit, costing between $70 and $150, and available from ...

• The Law Consumers' Association, which you will need to join before you will be sent a kit; 
• Australian Property Law Kits. 

You will also need to pay for any disbursements.