Conveyancing & Property Lawyers Newcastle
Whether you are buying your first property, building an investment portfolio, selling the family home, or getting involved in a development project, our property and conveyancing lawyers in Newcastle can help you make informed decisions to ensure that the transaction runs as smoothly as possible.
Buying and selling residential property
Buying and selling property usually involves one of the largest financial decisions a person ever makes. It is essential to understand your legal rights and the implications of entering a binding contract for the sale of land.
A written contract containing the terms and conditions of sale with prescribed disclosure documents must be available before selling a residential property in New South Wales. The vendor must also give certain warranties about the property. Purchasers, however, still need to make their own enquiries to ensure that the property meets their needs and that any potential defects or adverse interests are uncovered.
Our clients benefit from the combined knowledge of our experienced property and conveyancing team. If you are selling, we can prepare a compliant contract that meets the prescribed regulations but is also tailored to your individual property and needs. If you are buying, we can step you through the contract, negotiate conditions to help protect your interests and recommend investigations to ensure you know what you are buying. We will liaise with relevant parties and attend to the various steps required to ensure that your property transaction is completed in accordance with the contract terms and your expectations.
Completing your property transaction using e-conveyancing
Traditionally, property settlements involved the physical meeting of lawyers and bankers to check and swap documents and bank cheques. Documents were then lodged with government authorities to transfer the title and change ownership details of the property.
E-conveyancing has transformed this process through an electronic platform which enables lawyers, conveyancers, and financial institutions to transact online. Online settlements remove the location and time barriers of physical settlements and provide faster access to sales funds. Each stage of a transaction can be visually tracked, and documents lodged online with land registries.
The online property exchange known as Property Exchange Australia (PEXA), operates nationally to provide a standardised platform for the completion of online property transactions. We conduct numerous conveyancing and property related matters for a range of clients and are conversant with all aspects of e-conveyancing.
Buying off the plan
Buying a property ‘off the plan’ involves arrangements to buy property that has not yet been registered as a single lot with the relevant land titles registry. The transaction may involve the purchase of vacant land forming part of a subdivision or a ‘house and land package’ for the construction of a new house or unit to be built on that land.
Contracts for off-the-plan purchases are generally more complex than contracts for the sale of an existing dwelling. They are usually lengthy and contain various conditions and variables, and flexible completion dates providing a buffer to allow developers additional time to finish the project and complete the contract. The contract usually also provides a right for the vendor/developer to make variances in the design, size, and finishes, subject to permissible limits.
To deal with the uncertainty in timelines, purchasers buying off the plan should have a contingency plan. They will also need to carefully monitor their financial circumstances – with most loan approvals only lasting a few months, they will need to ensure that their lender is kept informed of progress and finance will still be available when it is time to complete the transaction.
Buying or selling at auction
An auction occurs when interested purchasers register to bid publicly for a property. The person or entity with the highest bid, subject to a reserve price, becomes the purchaser on the day of the auction. Contracts are immediately binding (there are no cooling-off rights), and the deposit is payable.
Auctions are regulated by legislation and the agent conducting the auction must maintain specific records and conduct the auction in accordance with the regulations.
If you propose bidding at an auction, it is important to have the contract reviewed and carry out any due diligence well before the auction date.
Commercial and retail leasing
A commercial lease governs the relationship between a landlord and tenant regarding the tenant’s right to occupy premises owned by the landlord. Commercial leasing disputes usually arise because of poorly drafted, ambiguous, or non-existent lease agreements, and/or the failure of the parties to properly understand their obligations under the lease.
Retail leases are commercial leases regulated by specific legislation which typically applies to premises within shopping centres or that are used wholly or predominantly for conducting a retail business. Retail leasing legislation aims to enhance consumer protection by stipulating minimum terms and conditions and limiting certain provisions deemed unreasonable for a tenant. The legislation also imposes certain disclosure obligations upon a landlord.
Speak to a Property and Conveyancing Lawyer
Landlords and tenants should obtain appropriate advice to ensure their negotiations are properly reflected in a lease agreement, and the provisions comply with relevant legislation.
If you need assistance, contact one of our lawyers at [email protected] or call (02) 4987 3344 for expert legal advice.
FAQs
What is conveyancing?
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. It involves preparing, verifying, and lodging legal documents, ensuring compliance with local property laws, and coordinating settlement to finalise the transaction.
Do I need a lawyer for conveyancing?
While you’re not legally required to hire a lawyer, engaging a property law expert ensures that your transaction is legally sound and free of risks. A lawyer can identify potential issues, negotiate contract terms, and provide peace of mind throughout the process.
What are the costs involved in conveyancing?
The costs of conveyancing typically include legal fees, search fees, and government charges (such as stamp duty and registration costs). Our team provides a clear, upfront breakdown of fees, so you know what to expect.
What’s the difference between buying property privately and at auction?
When buying privately, you can negotiate terms and include conditions like a building and pest inspection. Buying at auction, however, is unconditional, meaning you should have finance pre-approved and conduct inspections beforehand.
How long does the conveyancing process take?
For a standard residential property, the conveyancing process usually takes 4–6 weeks, depending on factors such as contract terms, loan approvals, and settlement readiness. Our team will keep you informed at every stage.
What is a cooling-off period, and does it apply to all property purchases?
A cooling-off period allows buyers to withdraw from the contract within a specific timeframe, typically 5 business days in New South Wales. This does not apply to properties purchased at auction or if waived by the buyer.
What property searches are conducted during conveyancing?
Property searches include title searches, council and zoning certificates, land tax clearance, and checks for any easements, restrictions, or disputes. These searches ensure there are no hidden issues affecting the property.
Can you assist with commercial property transactions?
Yes, our experienced property lawyers can guide you through buying, leasing, or selling commercial properties, ensuring compliance with all legal and regulatory requirements.
What is stamp duty, and who pays it?
Stamp duty is a government tax on property transactions, typically paid by the buyer. The amount depends on the property’s value and whether exemptions or concessions apply, such as for first-home buyers.
How can Cunningham Adam Lawyers help with property disputes?
We provide practical advice and representation in property disputes, including boundary issues, ownership claims, or breaches of contract. Our team is dedicated to finding efficient and cost-effective resolutions.
Can you help with off-the-plan property purchases?
Yes, our team can review contracts for off-the-plan purchases, ensuring your rights are protected and that you understand the risks, timelines, and responsibilities involved.
What should I do if there’s a delay in settlement?
Delays in settlement can occur for various reasons, such as financing issues or missing documents. We work proactively to resolve these issues and, if necessary, advise you on your legal options.
How do I get started with your conveyancing services?
Simply contact us via phone or email, and one of our friendly team members will guide you through the initial steps. We’ll provide a no-obligation quote and answer any questions you may have.