From 1 July 2026, significant changes to Australia’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) laws will affect the way many legal and property transactions are handled. While these reforms are aimed at preventing money laundering, terrorism financing and other financial crimes, they will also introduce some new steps for people

As settlement approaches, many buyers and sellers focus on the transfer of ownership and final paperwork. However, one of the most important financial aspects of settlement is often less understood: settlement adjustments. Settlement adjustments ensure that ongoing property expenses are fairly divided between the buyer and seller. Because costs such

For many buyers, location is one of the most important factors in choosing a property. Proximity to water, lifestyle amenities and natural surroundings can make certain areas particularly attractive. However, properties located in or near flood-prone areas come with additional considerations that should not be overlooked. Flood risk is not

When purchasing property, most buyers focus on visible risks such as location, condition and price. However, there are also legal risks that may not be apparent, even after standard searches and due diligence have been completed. Title insurance is a product designed to protect buyers against certain hidden risks associated

For many buyers, finance is one of the most important aspects of a property purchase. Before making an offer, it is common to obtain some form of loan approval from a lender. However, not all approvals are the same. Pre-approval and formal approval are often used interchangeably, but they represent

Newly built homes are often appealing to buyers. They offer modern finishes, updated layouts and the reassurance of a property that has not been lived in before. For many, the assumption is that a new home carries fewer risks than an established property. While this can be true in some