Once you exchange contracts in NSW, you are legally bound, so the time to check the contract is before you sign or bid. We read the contract, the special conditions and the attached certificates, then call you to explain what they mean and what to ask the agent.
Many buyers think they can sign first and fix the details later. They cannot. Changing the buyer's name, adding a person or adjusting ownership after exchange can be slow and costly, and promises the agent made are not part of the contract unless they are written into it.
What we check
| Part of the contract | What we look for |
|---|---|
| Front page | Price, deposit, settlement date, inclusions and exclusions, buyer names |
| Special conditions | Clauses that change the standard terms, such as early release of deposit, penalties for late settlement or limits on your rights |
| Section 10.7 planning certificate | Zoning, flood, bushfire, heritage and road widening |
| Title search and plan | Easements, covenants, caveats and mortgages |
| Drainage diagram | Sewer lines that may affect building plans |
| Pool documents | Whether the pool is compliant |
| Strata documents | By-laws, plan and levies, for apartments and strata duplexes |
What you get
- A call from Marcelino explaining the contract in plain English
- A list of what we would want changed or clarified
- Advice on whether to exchange with cooling off, sign a section 66W certificate, or bid at auction
We also review contracts for other law firms and conveyancing practices, so we see a wide range of special conditions and know which ones matter.
For costs, see conveyancing fees in NSW.
Common questions
FAQs
Do I need a review before an auction?
Yes. There is no cooling off period at auction in NSW, so the contract must be checked beforehand.
Can you negotiate changes to the contract?
Yes. We can request changes to special conditions before exchange. Whether the seller agrees is up to them.
City Peak Conveyancing acts on NSW property only. This page is general information, not advice about your circumstances.