What to discuss at the first meeting
Tell the adviser whether you are buying or selling, whether a contract is signed and the proposed completion date. Explain finance, ownership and any linked sale before requesting a quote.
Ask what happens if the transaction is delayed, unusual or becomes disputed.
Working with a firm in Melbourne CBD
A Melbourne CBD search can be useful for comparing teams with different specialisations. Ask who will do the work and who will supervise it, especially when a firm has several practice departments.
For property & conveyancing, ask which parts of the work the firm handles itself and whether it has relevant VIC experience. Let the lawyer know if a property, employer, other party or existing proceeding is outside Melbourne CBD. Your home address alone does not determine the applicable process.
How the engagement may progress
- 01
Provide the address, parties and current contract or notice. Explain whether anything has been signed and identify every agreed date.
- 02
Ask which terms, searches and ownership questions will be reviewed. Explain finance, proposed use and any linked transaction.
- 03
Agree who communicates with agents, lenders and the other side. Confirm how documents are approved and what happens if the matter is delayed or disputed.
Fees and the scope of work
Separate legal fees from searches, registration, taxes and third-party expenses. Complex ownership, negotiations or a dispute may fall outside an advertised conveyancing price.
Ask for a written scope identifying the work you are authorising, the person responsible and when costs will be reviewed. If you only want advice on one step, say so before the firm begins wider work.
Dates to raise at first contact
Seek review before signing where possible. Ask about the actual dates in your documents; cooling-off and completion arrangements differ across states and transactions.
Questions to ask a property & conveyancing adviser
- What review and searches are included?
