Good Legal handles residential and commercial property transactions. We were an early adopter of PEXA, the national electronic settlement network, and are a PEXA member. Almost all NSW property settlements now happen electronically.
Buying a property
- Before you sign. Send us the contract before you sign or bid. We review the title, zoning certificate, drainage diagram and special conditions, and tell you what to check.
- Exchange and cooling-off. For most residential purchases by private treaty you have a five business day cooling-off period after exchange. If you withdraw during that period, you forfeit 0.25% of the price. There is no cooling-off period at auction, or where you sign a section 66W certificate waiving it.
- Searches, finance and inquiries. We carry out searches, raise requisitions and work with your lender towards settlement.
- Transfer duty. Transfer duty is usually payable to Revenue NSW within three months after the contract, or on settlement if that is earlier. First home buyers may be eligible for an exemption or concession.
- Settlement. We settle electronically, arrange for the balance of the price to be paid and for the transfer to be registered in your name.
Selling a property
A NSW contract for sale must have certain documents attached before it goes to market, including a title search, a zoning (planning) certificate and a drainage diagram. Missing documents can give a buyer the right to rescind. We prepare the contract, deal with the buyer’s solicitor, discharge your mortgage at settlement and account to you for the proceeds.
Other property work
Leases
We act for landlords and tenants in retail and commercial leases. Retail shop leases are regulated by the Retail Leases Act 1994 (NSW), which requires a disclosure statement before the lease is entered into.
Family transfers
Transfers or gifts of property between family members and related parties. We explain the duty, tax and other consequences before you proceed.
Development and subdivision
Advice on subdividing or developing land, including easements, restrictions on use and council requirements.
Caveats
We lodge caveats to protect an interest in land, and act in applications to remove caveats that should not be there.
Agents’ commission
Disputes with real estate agents, including over commission claims.
Building disputes
Claims about defective work and breaches of building contracts.
What happened to my certificate of title?
Paper certificates of title were abolished in NSW on 11 October 2021. You no longer need one to sell or mortgage your property. Read more.
Frequently asked questions
When should I contact a conveyancer?
Before you sign anything. For a purchase, send us the contract before you exchange or bid at auction. For a sale, contact us before your agent starts marketing so the contract is ready.
How long does settlement take?
The usual settlement period in a NSW residential contract is 42 days after exchange, but the parties can agree on a different period.
Who will look after my matter?
Our practice manager, Amy Lagopodis, has extensive conveyancing experience and will guide you through each step.