Purchasing of a property is an important event and requires adherence to a structured process. Below are outlined key guidelines. 

• In consideration of the purchase of a property, the Presbytery needs to be consulted to assess the missional impact of the purchase.
• A copy of the application form is to be forwarded to both Presbytery and Synod.
• The parties to a purchase are The Uniting Church in Australia Property Trust (NSW) and the Vendor (e.g. the party selling the property).
• A valuation is required from a registered Valuer to determine the current value of the property. The Valuer is to advise whether GST is included or not.
• The dollar value of the purchase project determines whether the approval comes from Synod or Presbytery. Projects less than $1,000,000 can be approved by Presbytery. Projects in excess of $1,000,000 must be approved by Synod.
• Where borrowing of funds is required the applicant must include financial and three year forward cash flow statements.
• For additional loan assistance, Synod can possibly provide funding by means of a Self Help Fund, Schofield Fund, Woolnough Sites Fund, and/or a Uniting Church (NSW) Trust Association loan.
• If you intend to use sales proceeds, this must be identified in the application form.
• For the purchase of a minister’s residence, refer to the policy [insert link] for building or buying a minister’s residence.
• Where the purchase relates to Aged Care, Child Care or Education, approval must also be received from the relevant Board.
• It is recommended that a solicitor is appointed.
• All legal documents must be submitted to the Property Trust for execution.
• A Certificate of Correctness must accompany all legal documentation.
• Prior to settlement, arrangement must be made with Property Services to insure the property.
• Following settlement, all documents including original certificate of title, survey, drainage diagrams, zoning certificates are to be forwarded to Property Services for safe keeping.