Navigating Queensland Property Law is a complex journey, particularly with recent legislative reforms. While “cheap” DIY kits promise to save you a few hundred dollars, they often overlook critical legal protections required for a safe property settlement in QLD.
Your home is likely the biggest financial investment of your life. Is it really the right time for a “Do It Yourself” project? At Bennett Carroll, we’ve seen how a DIY approach can quickly shift from a bargain into a financial nightmare.
Why DIY Kits are a Legal Minefield:
- The Complexity Gap: Property law isn’t just about filling out forms. It’s about identifying title encumbrances, understanding complex easements, and navigating strict “time is of the essence” deadlines. Its about knowing when you are at risk and having personalised support, guidance and advice behind you.
- Liability & Risk: When you use a kit, the risk is 100% yours. When you engage a law firm, you are protected by professional oversight and management of your contract to minimise your risk.
- The “Back-up” Illusion: Having “back-up” is not the same as having a dedicated solicitor managing your file from start to finish. By the time you realise you need help, the financial impact could be greater than the cost of engaging with professionals from the outset.
Convenience Without the Risk
At Bennett Carroll Solicitors, we aim to make your experience as straight forward as possible while protecting your legal rights and financial interests. We believe in making law accessible and modern. You can handle your side of the process entirely remotely, no office visits required but with the absolute certainty that qualified Queensland solicitors are protecting your interests every step of the way.
Our work is performed by experts with years of experience and training in conveyancing and your Contract will be overseen by our experienced senior legal team.
FAQ: Buying & Selling Property Safely in Queensland
Q: Is DIY conveyancing legal in Queensland?
A: While it is technically legal to handle your own property transaction, Queensland law is unique. Unlike other states, conveyancing work here must be performed by or overseen by a qualified solicitor. Using a DIY kit means you forfeit professional indemnity insurance, leaving you 100% personally liable for any legal errors or missed deadlines.
Q: What is the biggest risk of using a “cheap” DIY conveyancing kit?
A: The “Complexity Gap.” In Queensland, “time is of the essence” for almost all contract dates. A DIY kit cannot provide the real-time legal advice needed if a building and pest issue arises or if a financier delays approval. One missed minute on a deadline could result in the loss of your entire deposit and a breached contract.
Q: How does the Property Law Act 2023 affect my property move?
A: As of August 2025, Queensland has moved to a Mandatory Seller Disclosure regime. Sellers must now provide a Form 2 Disclosure Statement before a contract is signed. DIY kits often rely on outdated “Buyer Beware” templates that may not comply with these new laws, potentially giving the buyer a legal right to terminate the contract.
Q: Can I manage my conveyancing entirely remotely?
A: Yes. At Bennett Carroll Solicitors, we have modernised the legal process so you never need to visit an office. We use secure e-conveyancing platforms like PEXA to handle your settlement digitally, providing the convenience of a “DIY” approach with the absolute protection of a senior legal team.
Q: Should I get a contract review before I sign?
A: Absolutely. A DIY kit only helps you after you’ve already committed. We recommend sending your contract to our office for a professional review before you sign. This allows us to identify hidden encumbrances, complex easements, or unfavourable conditions that a template simply wouldn’t flag.
Protect Your Investment
Don’t gamble your deposit on a template. Get the facts on how to buy and sell your property safely.
If you have not yet signed a contract we recommend that you send it to our office for review and discussion with you first. Reduce your liability, contact our office today for a friendly consultation.
