Buying or Selling Property in 2026? Legal Issues to Consider in a Changing Market

Nagisa Kumagai | Associate & Conveyancing Practice Manager

Buying or selling property is a major decision at any time, but in a changing market, the legal details can become even more important. When prices shift, finance conditions tighten, buyer confidence changes or properties take longer to sell, both buyers and sellers may feel pressure to make quick decisions.


That pressure can lead to important legal issues being overlooked. A buyer may be tempted to sign a contract before finance is formally approved or before building and pest inspection concerns are resolved or before understanding the effect of special conditions. A seller may accept unusual conditions, a delayed settlement or a request for a price reduction without fully understanding the legal and practical consequences.


First home buyers may feel this pressure more strongly. Higher borrowing costs, changing government incentives, transfer duty concessions and broader cost-of-living pressures can make it harder to enter the market, and may lead some buyers to move quickly once they find a suitable property. Even in a competitive market, it is important to understand the contract terms, finance condition, building and pest conditions, any applicable cooling-off periods, special conditions and key dates before signing. This is why legal advice should be considered early in the transaction, not simply at the end before settlement. The contract, disclosure material, special conditions and key dates can all affect your rights, obligations and overall risk.


For buyers, the main issue is making sure the contract gives you the protection you need before you commit. Depending on the relevant State or Territory and the terms of the contract, this may include finance approval, building and pest inspections, settlement timing, inclusions and exclusions, special conditions and any disclosure documents that raise concerns. Depending on the State or Territory, buyers may also need to consider any applicable cooling-off rights, whether those rights apply, termination costs or penalties, title issues, easements, covenants, encumbrances, strata, body corporate or owner’s corporation information, transfer duty and available concessions. If these matters are not checked before signing, your options may become limited and important deadlines may be missed.


For sellers, the key issue is preparation. In a cautious or competitive market, missing documents, unresolved title issues, strata, body corporate or owner’s corporation matters, easements, unapproved structures, tenancy issues, pool safety requirements or incorrect information can create delay, renegotiation or disputes. Having the contract and disclosure material prepared before listing can help reduce these risks.


State-based requirements also need to be considered. Property rules differ across Australia, including cooling-off periods, disclosure obligations, contract requirements and settlement processes. This is particularly relevant for clients buying or selling across the border, or investors purchasing outside their usual location.


Recent legal changes have added another layer of risk. In Queensland, the seller disclosure scheme that commenced on 1 August 2025 generally requires sellers to give buyers prescribed disclosure material before a contract is signed, subject to exceptions. Non-compliance may give rise to buyer termination rights before settlement in some circumstances. In New South Wales, prescribed contract notices and warning statements, including cooling-off notices, should be checked to ensure the current form is used. These changes highlight why relying on outdated contracts, templates or assumptions can create unnecessary risk. Requirements in other States and Territories may also differ, so contracts and disclosure documents should be checked for the relevant jurisdiction.


Legal advice can also help during negotiation. In a changing market, buyers may seek more time, more protection or a lower price after inspections. Sellers may need to decide whether to accept those requests or negotiate different terms. A lawyer can help you understand what is reasonable, what may create delay or uncertainty and what should be addressed before the contract becomes binding.


At CJM Lawyers, our property team can help you identify and manage these issues from the beginning. We can review or prepare contracts, advise on disclosure obligations, explain special conditions, assist with conveyancing and assist with property transactions across Australia, including jurisdiction-specific advice and settlement coordination where required.


Our role is to help you understand what you are agreeing to, identify potential problems early and make informed decisions with confidence. Whether you are buying, selling or negotiating contract terms, early legal advice can help reduce the risk of delay, dispute or costly mistakes.


If you are planning to buy or sell property in 2026, contact CJM Lawyers to discuss how our property team can assist with your transaction.




Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.

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By September 2026 Edition 10 September 2026
Bought off-the-plan and the developer is trying to cancel your contract? Don’t assume it’s the end of the road. Buying property is exciting, but buying off the plan comes with a unique risk: you are committing to a home or investment before it has been built. If completion is delayed and the developer later tries to walk away from the contract, buyers can be left uncertain about their rights, their deposit and the property they hoped to secure. That issue was recently considered by the Queensland Supreme Court in a case involving Chevron One Apartments on the Gold Coast, Queensland. CJM Lawyers acted for one of the purchasers in successfully disputing the developer’s right to terminate. The Court declared the contracts valid and binding, reinforcing an important message for buyers: if you receive a termination notice, it is worth getting legal advice before assuming your contract is over. What Is an Off-the-Plan Property? An off-the-plan property is a property purchased before construction is complete. Instead of buying an existing apartment, townhouse or home, the buyer enters into a contract based on plans, specifications and development documents. This type of purchase can appeal to buyers who want to secure a property early, plan a future move, arrange finance over time or invest before a project is complete. However, because construction and registration can take months or even years, off-the-plan contracts often include strict timelines and conditions that buyers need to understand before settlement. What Is a Sunset Clause? A sunset clause sets a deadline for important steps in a development to be completed. In an off-the-plan contract, this may include registration of the plan, creation of title, completion of construction or settlement. If the deadline passes and the required steps have not happened, the contract may give one or both parties a right to end the contract. However, that right is not always automatic – especially where a developer is relying on the clause to cancel the contract. The wording of the contract, the reason for the delay and any relevant legal requirements all need to be carefully considered. A Recent Win for Property Buyers CJM Lawyers recently acted for one of the purchasers in Supreme Court proceedings concerning the Chevron One development on the Gold Coast. The purchasers had entered into off-the-plan contracts in 2021, with settlement to occur by dates set several years later. When those dates passed, the developer sought to end the contracts. The buyers refused to accept the terminations and took the matter to the Supreme Court. CJM Lawyers acted for one of the purchasers in successfully disputing the developer’s right to terminate. The Queensland Supreme Court declared the contracts valid and binding. Critically, the Court found no basis for allowing the developer to benefit from its own breach of contract. The developer's attempt to point to pandemic-related supply chain disruptions as justification for termination was also rejected. What Should Buyers Do If a Developer Tries to Terminate? If a developer sends you a sunset clause termination notice, do not assume your contract is over. Whether the termination is valid may depend on the wording of the contract, the reason for the delay, the timing of the notice and the steps taken by each party. You should seek legal advice as soon as possible if your development has experienced lengthy delays, you have received a termination notice, a developer is relying on a sunset clause, or you are unsure whether your contract is still binding. Getting advice early can help you understand your rights before you accept a refund, sign documents or make decisions that may affect your legal position. How CJM Lawyers Can Help CJM Lawyers can assist buyers with off-the-plan property disputes, sunset clause issues and proposed contract terminations. Our Litigation team can review your contract and supporting documents, assess whether a termination is likely to be valid, explain your options, negotiate with developers and represent you in court proceedings where necessary. If your developer is trying to cancel your off-the-plan contract, speak with CJM Lawyers before accepting a refund, signing further documents or walking away from a property you still want to secure. Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.
By September 2026 Edition 3 September 2026
Buying an aircraft can be an exciting milestone, whether it is for business, recreation or private use. But aircraft purchases are not like buying a car or boat. They involve technical records, regulatory requirements and airworthiness considerations that may not be obvious at first glance. Imagine purchasing an aircraft only to later discover it is not airworthy. If a buyer assumes the right checks have already been completed, they may be left facing unexpected costs, delays and legal uncertainty after settlement. It is an important reminder that what looks right on the surface may not always tell the full story. A well-presented aircraft is not necessarily compliant, airworthy or free from risk. Why a pre-purchase inspection matters A pre-purchase inspection can help identify issues with the aircraft’s condition, maintenance history and airworthiness before the buyer commits. It can also highlight questions that should be addressed in the sale agreement. The key is knowing what has been checked, what has not been checked, and what protections are in place if something is discovered later. Things to consider before purchasing an aircraft Arrange an independent inspection before committing to the purchase. Review key records , including logbooks, maintenance history and relevant compliance documents. Confirm the aircraft’s airworthiness status rather than relying on assumptions or verbal assurances. Use a written sale agreement that clearly sets out the terms, inclusions and inspection rights. Seek advice before signing , particularly if finance, insurance, ownership structures or regulatory issues are involved. What if problems are discovered after purchase? If issues are discovered after settlement, the buyer’s options will depend on the contract, what was represented before the sale and the nature of the defect. These matters can become complicated quickly, especially where technical aircraft records and regulatory requirements are involved. How CJM Lawyers can help At CJM Lawyers, our aviation law team assists with aircraft sale and purchase agreements, due diligence, ownership structures, finance and security arrangements, leasing, regulatory issues and disputes. If you are thinking about buying an aircraft, we can help you understand the legal considerations before you commit. If you have already purchased an aircraft and something has gone wrong, we can help determine your options and advise on the best way forward. Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.
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By September 2026 Edition 10 September 2026
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By September 2026 Edition 3 September 2026
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By September 2026 Edition 3 September 2026
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By September 2026 Edition 10 September 2026
Bought off-the-plan and the developer is trying to cancel your contract? Don’t assume it’s the end of the road. Buying property is exciting, but buying off the plan comes with a unique risk: you are committing to a home or investment before it has been built. If completion is delayed and the developer later tries to walk away from the contract, buyers can be left uncertain about their rights, their deposit and the property they hoped to secure. That issue was recently considered by the Queensland Supreme Court in a case involving Chevron One Apartments on the Gold Coast, Queensland. CJM Lawyers acted for one of the purchasers in successfully disputing the developer’s right to terminate. The Court declared the contracts valid and binding, reinforcing an important message for buyers: if you receive a termination notice, it is worth getting legal advice before assuming your contract is over. What Is an Off-the-Plan Property? An off-the-plan property is a property purchased before construction is complete. Instead of buying an existing apartment, townhouse or home, the buyer enters into a contract based on plans, specifications and development documents. This type of purchase can appeal to buyers who want to secure a property early, plan a future move, arrange finance over time or invest before a project is complete. However, because construction and registration can take months or even years, off-the-plan contracts often include strict timelines and conditions that buyers need to understand before settlement. What Is a Sunset Clause? A sunset clause sets a deadline for important steps in a development to be completed. In an off-the-plan contract, this may include registration of the plan, creation of title, completion of construction or settlement. If the deadline passes and the required steps have not happened, the contract may give one or both parties a right to end the contract. However, that right is not always automatic – especially where a developer is relying on the clause to cancel the contract. The wording of the contract, the reason for the delay and any relevant legal requirements all need to be carefully considered. A Recent Win for Property Buyers CJM Lawyers recently acted for one of the purchasers in Supreme Court proceedings concerning the Chevron One development on the Gold Coast. The purchasers had entered into off-the-plan contracts in 2021, with settlement to occur by dates set several years later. When those dates passed, the developer sought to end the contracts. The buyers refused to accept the terminations and took the matter to the Supreme Court. CJM Lawyers acted for one of the purchasers in successfully disputing the developer’s right to terminate. The Queensland Supreme Court declared the contracts valid and binding. Critically, the Court found no basis for allowing the developer to benefit from its own breach of contract. The developer's attempt to point to pandemic-related supply chain disruptions as justification for termination was also rejected. What Should Buyers Do If a Developer Tries to Terminate? If a developer sends you a sunset clause termination notice, do not assume your contract is over. Whether the termination is valid may depend on the wording of the contract, the reason for the delay, the timing of the notice and the steps taken by each party. You should seek legal advice as soon as possible if your development has experienced lengthy delays, you have received a termination notice, a developer is relying on a sunset clause, or you are unsure whether your contract is still binding. Getting advice early can help you understand your rights before you accept a refund, sign documents or make decisions that may affect your legal position. How CJM Lawyers Can Help CJM Lawyers can assist buyers with off-the-plan property disputes, sunset clause issues and proposed contract terminations. Our Litigation team can review your contract and supporting documents, assess whether a termination is likely to be valid, explain your options, negotiate with developers and represent you in court proceedings where necessary. If your developer is trying to cancel your off-the-plan contract, speak with CJM Lawyers before accepting a refund, signing further documents or walking away from a property you still want to secure. Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.
By September 2026 Edition 3 September 2026
Buying an aircraft can be an exciting milestone, whether it is for business, recreation or private use. But aircraft purchases are not like buying a car or boat. They involve technical records, regulatory requirements and airworthiness considerations that may not be obvious at first glance. Imagine purchasing an aircraft only to later discover it is not airworthy. If a buyer assumes the right checks have already been completed, they may be left facing unexpected costs, delays and legal uncertainty after settlement. It is an important reminder that what looks right on the surface may not always tell the full story. A well-presented aircraft is not necessarily compliant, airworthy or free from risk. Why a pre-purchase inspection matters A pre-purchase inspection can help identify issues with the aircraft’s condition, maintenance history and airworthiness before the buyer commits. It can also highlight questions that should be addressed in the sale agreement. The key is knowing what has been checked, what has not been checked, and what protections are in place if something is discovered later. Things to consider before purchasing an aircraft Arrange an independent inspection before committing to the purchase. Review key records , including logbooks, maintenance history and relevant compliance documents. Confirm the aircraft’s airworthiness status rather than relying on assumptions or verbal assurances. Use a written sale agreement that clearly sets out the terms, inclusions and inspection rights. Seek advice before signing , particularly if finance, insurance, ownership structures or regulatory issues are involved. What if problems are discovered after purchase? If issues are discovered after settlement, the buyer’s options will depend on the contract, what was represented before the sale and the nature of the defect. These matters can become complicated quickly, especially where technical aircraft records and regulatory requirements are involved. How CJM Lawyers can help At CJM Lawyers, our aviation law team assists with aircraft sale and purchase agreements, due diligence, ownership structures, finance and security arrangements, leasing, regulatory issues and disputes. If you are thinking about buying an aircraft, we can help you understand the legal considerations before you commit. If you have already purchased an aircraft and something has gone wrong, we can help determine your options and advise on the best way forward. Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.
By September 2026 Edition 3 September 2026
September is a timely reminder to pause and ask a simple but important question: does your Will still reflect your life today? For many people, making a Will is one of those important jobs that sits on the “I’ll get to it one day” list. Others may have a Will in place, but it was prepared years ago and has not been reviewed since. The challenge is that life rarely stays the same. Relationships change, families grow, property is bought or sold, businesses evolve, and financial arrangements can become more complex over time. Why reviewing your Will matters A Will is not just a document for later in life. It is an important part of planning ahead and making sure your wishes are clearly recorded. It allows you to decide who should receive your assets, who should administer your estate, and how you would like important personal matters handled. Having a valid and up-to-date Will can also make things much clearer for your loved ones at an already difficult time. It can reduce the risk of confusion about who should make decisions, who should benefit from your estate, and how your wishes should be carried out. When should you review your Will? It may be time to review your Will if you have recently: married, separated or divorced welcomed children or grandchildren bought or sold property started or sold a business moved into a blended family arrangement experienced a significant change in your finances It is also worth checking whether your superannuation nominations, enduring power of attorney and other estate planning documents still work together with your Will. What your Will may not automatically cover One common misconception is that a Will automatically covers everything you own. In reality, assets such as superannuation, jointly owned property, trusts, company interests and life insurance may need separate consideration. Without the right planning, there can be uncertainty, delays, disputes or outcomes that do not reflect what you intended. How CJM Lawyers can help At CJM Lawyers, our Wills and Estates team can help you prepare a new Will, review an existing Will, update your estate planning documents, and consider how your broader arrangements fit together. Whether your circumstances are simple or more complex, we can provide clear, practical guidance to help you plan ahead with confidence and give your loved ones greater peace of mind. Contact our Wills and Estates team today to get started. Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. The information may not apply to your circumstances and should not be relied on as a substitute for tailored legal advice. If you need advice, please contact CJM Lawyers to speak with one of our legal professionals.
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