Blog
Transparency in Estate Planning
Family dynamics can be intricate, and sadly, disputes sometimes arise when it comes to estate planning. A lack of transparency regarding a loved one’s Will can intensify these situations and often lead to Will challenges. This blog post emphasises the critical importance of fostering open communication and transparency amongst family members to help minimise the … Read more
Vacant Residential Land Tax in Victoria
What is vacant residential land tax? Vacant residential land tax (VRLT) is a tax imposed on residential properties that are vacant for more than six months in a calendar year. It is assessed on the capital improved value of the property and applies at a progressive rate based on the number of consecutive years the … Read more
Timely Lodging of a Grant
We sometimes get calls from clients who are concerned they need to engage our services to start working on the estate within a couple of days of their loved one’s passing. We generally advise these clients that there is no rush and that there is not much we can do until the Death Certificate has … Read more
EPA & AMTDMs for Young Adults: Why It Matters Now
While estate planning often focuses on older individuals, young adults also benefit significantly from having a plan in place. Two crucial aspects of this plan for young adults are an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) and an Appointment of Medical Treatment Decision Maker (AMTDM). While these terms sound complex, understanding their purpose and importance will … Read more
Wills for Young Adults: Why It Matters Now
While estate planning often conjures up images of retirement homes and wealth, the truth is, it’s equally important for young adults to consider taking control of their future. Despite not having vast fortunes, young adults often possess valuable assets, from cherished family heirlooms to growing investment portfolios and superannuation. More importantly, they might have loved … Read more
Understanding Enduring Powers of Attorney
Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) In the journey of life, we encounter various uncertainties and challenges. It’s essential to plan for the future, not only for our well-being but also to ensure that our wishes are respected and upheld, especially when unforeseen circumstances arise. One powerful tool for such planning is the Enduring Power of … Read more
Tips for first time homebuyers
First Home Owner Tips Embarking on the journey of purchasing your first home is an exciting and significant milestone. For first-time homebuyers in Victoria, understanding the intricacies of the conveyancing process is key to a successful and stress-free property transaction. In this blog post, we’ll provide valuable tips to guide you through the conveyancing journey … Read more
What if I don’t want to be an executor?
Someone you know has died and you find out that you have been appointed as an Executor of their Will. As an Executor, you will need to prove their Will to the Probate Office and then administer the estate. You might not have known they had appointed you and you don’t want to or don’t … Read more
Who Can Witness Your Documents
A question we get asked a lot is ‘who can witness my estate planning documents?’ In this post we aim to outline in clear terms who can witness your documents. Wills For your Will to be valid, it needs to be signed in front of two (2) witnesses. These witnesses need to be over … Read more
Where Is Your Original Will
It is important to know where you have stored your original documents, including your Powers of Attorney, Wills and even Certificates of Title. It is also important to let your close family members and Executors know where such documents are kept, they do not need to know the contents of the documents but should know … Read more