Document Top Tips

Our document top tips are:

1. READ THE DOCUMENT CAREFULLY

This means EVERYTHING – including the fine print

Make sure any names and figures are correct.

If any corrections are needed, advise your representative and make sure they are made before you sign.

2. ASK QUESTIONS – MAKE SURE YOU UNDERSTAND

Do not put your signature to any document unless you fully understand it and have had any questions you might have answered.

You cannot later say “I didn’t understand” – in general, by putting your signature to a document you are deemed to have read and understood it.

Make sure you use your representative and ask questions about anything you don’t understand.

3. DON’T BE PRESSURED TO SIGN

If you are being pressured by anyone to sign a Contract (unless buying at auction) – DON’T SIGN

Take the document to your representative and advise the agent/broker that you will only sign after having the benefit of legal advice.

This is especially important when purchasing at auction – you must make sure you get advice on the document before the auction.

You will need to deal with all documents in a timely manner to keep things moving once you have signed a Contract – but don’t sign the Contract if you have any outstanding queries.

Our document top tips os to be prepared to walk away from the deal if necessary.

It is normal to feel a bit anxious as purchasing your first home is a big deal – however undue pressure should not be placed on you.

Only sign the Contract to buy if you feel that all your questions have been answered.

4. WRITE IN ANY SPECIAL ITEMS AGREED

Make sure the Contract includes any special agreements or items that have been agreed between you and the Vendor and which are not covered in the printed form document.

These could be about some work the Vendor will do before completion or items the Vendor is leaving as part of the deal, cleaning, rubbish removal and the like.

Don’t rely on a handshake agreement – make sure any such items are written into the document to ensure that your representative can enforce the obligation.

If you need to obtain finance to complete the purchase – make sure the Contract is subject to unconditional finance approval.