Anti-Money Laundering Requirements
Before we start legal work for our clients, we are required to carry out Anti-Money Laundering and Countering Financing of Terrorism (“AML and CFT”) checks. We understand this can seem like an unnecessary and invasive step in engaging a lawyer. So why do we do this? Law firms are now required to complete these checks because they are significant targets for criminals to try to launder money through for the funding of terrorism and other illegal activities. How do we do this?
Purchasing a House? We have your pre-settlement checklist
The pre-settlement inspection is to ensure that the purchaser can inspect and be satisfied with the condition of the property before it formally transfers hands. Give at least two days before settlement date for a pre-settlement inspection to be completed. This is normally done via contacting the real estate agent or vendor. It is often helpful to bring a copy of the sale and purchase agreement with you to the inspection so you can refer to any conditions that might make a di
Fences - Who's Responsible?
We are in the middle of a construction boom, there are many new subdivisions being opened up and, well, as a rural land owner you often have quite extensive boundaries. Fencing them can be expensive. What are the actual legal requirements for a fence? Who contributes? Generally, if you want to build a fence on a common boundary with your neighbour, or upgrade an existing one, you can expect the neighbour to go halves on the bill for an "adequate" fence. That is, one that is
First Home Buyers
Buying your first home? No idea where to start? Sometimes we wish there was a hand to hold, or a map to read to get to our final destination- in this instance- the relief and satisfaction of having moved all your belongings into your very own home. We are here to help make that journey as smooth as possible (without physically holding your hand, sorry). Your first step is a financial process, working out what is going to be affordable for you. Talking to a mortgage broker
What does “vacant possession” really mean?
A vendor is required to sell a property with vacant possession unless the particulars of the tenancy are included in the agreement for sale and purchase. Vacant possession includes: Giving title to the property free from any tenancy or right of occupation; and Giving physical vacant possession. Except in the case of a fixed term tenancy, where a vendor agrees to sell a tenanted property with vacant possession, the vendor is legally required to give the tenant at least 42 days