Published 2026-01-06 · Updated 2026-01-06 · 6 min read
Buying a home or investment property is one of the largest financial commitments most people make. Before signing anything, it is generally worthwhile having a solicitor review the contract and carry out relevant checks, so that you understand what you are agreeing to.
Reviewing the contract of sale
A solicitor will generally review the contract for matters such as the accuracy of the title description, any special conditions, inclusions and exclusions, and clauses that may affect settlement or your obligations as purchaser. Special conditions can vary significantly between contracts, so a careful read is important rather than assuming a standard form applies.
Searches that may be relevant
- Title searches, to confirm ownership and any registered interests.
- Zoning and planning certificates, relevant to permitted use and future development.
- Building and pest inspection reports, generally arranged separately by the buyer.
- Council and drainage diagrams, which may reveal easements or other restrictions.
- Strata records, where applicable, for units or townhouses.
The cooling-off period
In many private treaty purchases, a cooling-off period generally applies, during which a purchaser may be able to withdraw from the contract subject to certain conditions. This period does not generally apply to properties purchased at auction, and its availability and length can depend on the circumstances of the sale, so it should not be assumed to apply universally.
Why early advice matters
Involving a solicitor before you exchange contracts, rather than after, generally allows more scope to negotiate terms or address concerns raised by the searches. Once contracts are exchanged, your options can become more limited, so early engagement is usually beneficial.