What You Need to Know Before You Begin
Taking on the responsibility of managing someone else’s property is no small task — especially when it comes time to sell. Whether you’re acting as Power of Attorney for a parent, partner, or someone who can no longer manage their own affairs, the process can feel overwhelming.
That’s why this post — and the full guide that goes with it — exists: to give you clear, practical advice on how to approach a property sale under Power of Attorney in South Australia, with professionalism, sensitivity, and confidence.
Let’s break down what to expect and how to avoid unnecessary stress.
✅ What Does Power of Attorney Mean in Property Sales?
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows one person (the Attorney) to make decisions on behalf of another (the Principal). In the case of property, this may involve selling their home, managing legal paperwork, and signing contracts on their behalf.
It’s essential that your POA includes the authority to deal with property. If you’re unsure, a solicitor or conveyancer can help review the document and confirm whether you’re able to proceed.
🧠 Can You Sell a Home Under Power of Attorney?
Yes — as long as the Power of Attorney is valid and unrevoked, and includes the authority to deal with financial and property matters.
In South Australia, this often involves:
- Having a certified copy of the POA document
- Showing identification and documentation to your real estate agent
- Working with a conveyancer early in the process to avoid legal oversights
🛠 Preparing the Property for Sale
Before placing the property on the market, it’s important to ensure the home is presented well and any necessary repairs are addressed. This might include:
- Decluttering and removing personal items
- Minor touch-ups like paint, lighting, and garden care
- Safety checks — especially if the property has been unoccupied
- Ensuring any outdated fixtures are removed or refreshed
💡 If funds are tight, ask us about deferring payment for repairs and presentation services until settlement. We may be able to help through selected providers.
📣 Marketing a Property Sold Under Power of Attorney
When the decision to sell has been made, the right marketing strategy is crucial — and not just for attracting buyers, but for protecting your role and honouring the trust placed in you.
At Plaza Real Estate, we combine calm, personalised service with modern marketing tools to support Attorneys through the sale process. Our approach includes:
- AI-powered advertising to reach serious buyers
- Professionally produced photography, walkthroughs, and digital floorplans
- A choice of private sale or auction — depending on your preferences and the market
- Real-time updates so you’re never left in the dark
We understand that this isn’t a typical property sale. That’s why we ensure your responsibilities are respected, communication is clear, and your decisions are backed by local expertise.
✍️ What Happens at Settlement?
Once the contract is signed, your conveyancer will coordinate the legal side of things. You’ll need to:
- Sign documents in your capacity as the Attorney
- Ensure funds are disbursed to the correct account or trust
- Keep any involved parties (such as siblings or advisers) informed, if appropriate
Settlement is typically straightforward when handled correctly — but early communication is key.
🧭 Why Experience Matters
Selling under Power of Attorney often means juggling legal duties, family dynamics, and the emotional weight of acting on someone else’s behalf.
Having an experienced, calm, and well-respected agent by your side can make all the difference. We’ve helped many clients in similar roles — and we understand the sensitivity and structure required.
Our job isn’t to rush you or oversell. It’s to guide you — step by step — with clarity and care.
📘 Want the Full Guide?
We’ve put together a comprehensive, easy-to-read resource:
Selling a Home Under Power of Attorney – A Practical Step-by-Step Guide for South Australians
🟢 Click here to get your FREE copy now »
Inside, you’ll find:
- A checklist of what to do before listing the home
- Examples of how to deal with repairs and family conversations
- Guidance on documentation, settlement, and working with professionals
- Plus, real-world advice from local experience
💬 Still Have Questions?
We’re here to help.
Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already mid-process, we’re available for a quiet, no-pressure conversation.
Call Eriks at Plaza Real Estate
📞 (08) 8396 1100
📩 [email protected]
🌐 plazarealestate.com.au/books
Adelaide, South Australia
