Check up on both the builder and developer

Before committing to an off-the-plan contract, it’s important to find out who is behind the project. Review the developer’s previous projects, assess the standard of their past work, and where possible, speak with others who have bought from them before. Their track record with defects, build delays, and quality of finishes can reveal a lot. Older developments may also show whether problems surfaced after handover. Be aware that the developer listed in the contract may not be the one who finishes the job. Many developers have the right to change the builder or assign the project to another company. Just because one of their past builds went well does not mean the same team or standards will apply here.

Make sure the price is right

Off-the-plan homes can be listed above market value. Instead of relying on promotional material, compare similar properties in the area. Consider price per square metre, inclusions, and long-term growth potential. If the valuation seems unclear, getting an independent opinion can provide a better benchmark.

How are you going to pay the purchase price on settlement?

Once the contract is signed and the cooling-off period has ended, you’re locked in. If finance cannot be arranged, you may still be legally obliged to proceed. Many lenders only offer unconditional finance once the development is nearly completed or registered. Changes to your employment, lending policy updates, delays in the build, or unexpected valuations can all affect your ability to obtain funding.

Sales brochures may highlight premium inclusions, but unless they’re written into the contract, they have no legal weight. If you expect certain appliances or finishes, make sure those are listed specifically by brand and model. Phrases like “top-end fittings” or “premium features” mean very little if not backed by precise terms.

Expertise

Buying Off-The-Plan

OFF-THE-PLAN CONVEYANCING SPECIALISTS SHELLHARBOUR

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Fixed Fee Conveyancing

We offer fixed pricing for all conveyancing matters, giving you cost certainty from the outset. Whether you are purchasing or selling, our team handles the legal work with precision and clarity. Our aim is to keep the process streamlined and to help you avoid unnecessary setbacks.

Dedicated Team

Your property matter will be managed by a team that includes a NSW Law Society Accredited Specialist in Property Law, supported by licensed conveyancers and skilled solicitors. We apply a collaborative approach to each matter and keep you informed with regular communication as your transaction progresses.

Extensive Experience

Our team manages a wide variety of transactions, from first home purchases to sales of investment properties, commercial premises, and off-the-plan agreements. No matter the scale or complexity, we draw on years of experience to keep your matter moving and help you reach a settlement without added stress.

Here To Help

Looking at purchasing an off-the-plan property in Shellharbour? These agreements often differ from regular property sales. Delays in completion, changes to the build, and terms that favour the developer are all common. Understanding exactly what you're signing up for is essential before moving forward.

Our conveyancing team works with buyers throughout Shellharbour to examine contracts carefully, highlight possible issues, and explain your rights in plain terms. We help simplify what can be a complex process so you can proceed with more certainty.

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Conveyancing

Area of Expertise

How Can Our Shellharbour Off-The-Plan Conveyancing Experts Help?

Off-the-plan properties are often promoted with lower entry prices and longer settlement timeframes. However, the contracts are usually detailed and can be slanted toward the developer’s interests.

We assess each section of the agreement, reviewing settlement schedules, clauses around design variations, fixture lists, and deposit conditions. If anything in the document could present a risk or create complications later, we will flag it and explain how it may affect your purchase.

Our objective is to give you a clearer picture of the contract so you can move ahead with confidence. Whether you're purchasing a unit, duplex, or house and land package in Shellharbour, we focus on protecting your interests and supporting your decisions with sound legal analysis.

Check up on both the builder and developer

Before committing to an off-the-plan contract, it’s important to find out who is behind the project. Review the developer’s previous projects, assess the standard of their past work, and where possible, speak with others who have bought from them before. Their track record with defects, build delays, and quality of finishes can reveal a lot. Older developments may also show whether problems surfaced after handover.

Be aware that the developer listed in the contract may not be the one who finishes the job. Many developers have the right to change the builder or assign the project to another company. Just because one of their past builds went well does not mean the same team or standards will apply here.
Make sure the price is right

Off-the-plan homes can be listed above market value. Instead of relying on promotional material, compare similar properties in the area. Consider price per square metre, inclusions, and long-term growth potential. If the valuation seems unclear, getting an independent opinion can provide a better benchmark.
How are you going to pay the purchase price on settlement?

Once the contract is signed and the cooling-off period has ended, you’re locked in. If finance cannot be arranged, you may still be legally obliged to proceed. Many lenders only offer unconditional finance once the development is nearly completed or registered.

Changes to your employment, lending policy updates, delays in the build, or unexpected valuations can all affect your ability to obtain funding.
What are you buying?

Sales brochures may highlight premium inclusions, but unless they’re written into the contract, they have no legal weight. If you expect certain appliances or finishes, make sure those are listed specifically by brand and model. Phrases like “top-end fittings” or “premium features” mean very little if not backed by precise terms.

Variations

Most off-the-plan agreements let the developer make certain changes before settlement. These could be changes in layout, materials, or adjustments due to council requirements. Some contracts place limits on this, others do not.

Try to negotiate terms that allow you to exit the contract if the changes affect key aspects. For instance, a reduction in lot size over 5 per cent or any non-essential change may give you grounds to withdraw.
Warranty insurance

Residential projects that exceed a certain value usually need Home Warranty Insurance. However, this is not always the case. Developments over three storeys or those managed by owner-builders may fall outside the requirement. Check the policy details, especially for larger projects, to confirm whether protection applies and what cover is included.
Defects

Some contracts allow settlement to proceed even when defects are present. You may only get a short window to report faults once you’ve moved in. Keep in mind that some issues may only show up later.

Seek a defect period that gives you enough time to identify problems. Avoid contracts that only allow one inspection or that set tight limits on your right to claim.
Dispute resolution

Disagreements about changes or material substitutions are not uncommon. A clear dispute resolution process, such as mediation or expert assessment, can help resolve matters without heading straight to court.

Other considerations

Pay close attention to clauses about GST, strata by-laws, service easements, and developer conditions. Even small details can affect how you use the property or increase costs over time.

Off-the-plan transactions involve risk. Our team can assess your contract, highlight the details that matter, and help you make well-informed decisions before committing. If you’re considering a purchase before the build is complete, we are available to assist you through every step.