New permit system bars property investors from going regional

As of 21 August, property investors will no longer be able to cross over from Greater Sydney into regional NSW to inspect a property.

According to a statement issued by the government, “any person” inspecting real estate in the regions must now genuinely need a home to live in — no investment properties. This means that even those looking to set up a permanent home in the regions will need to apply for a permit before venturing out to view a property.

“We’ve had to tighten the current public health orders because of the minority who exploited them,” said Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott.

Those who breach the new rules risk a $3,000 on-the-spot fine.

“The increased fines and heightened police presence are about ensuring people who are doing the wrong thing are caught and punished appropriately,” NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian explained.

While scoping out potential property isn’t allowed under the current rules, property investors are allowed to apply for a permit if they need to travel to a second home located in regional NSW, but only to use it as work accommodation or if the home requires urgent maintenance and repairs. Even then, only one person is allowed to make the trip.

The implications of this new requirement on real estate agents and other property professionals are not immediately apparent.

What is apparent is that the government could be imposing these new rules at the expense of investors.

As things currently stand, within Greater Sydney, property investors are able to schedule private property inspections, but only a single buyer and a single agent are allowed per appointment.

Asked how the Property Council of Australia expects the new permit to impact the market, NSW executive director Luke Achterstraat expressed hope the permit system will be simple and straightforward.

Speaking to Smart Property Investment, he said that “this is especially important for those construction workers who have only just now been given a lifeline through vaccination to return to work after an extended forced break”.