Keeping the purchase in step with the loan.
Send us the contract before your client signs. We tell you the finance approval date and keep you informed through to settlement.
A purchase with a loan
An example of how a purchase with a loan runs with us.
Before signing
We receive the contract before your client signs. We check the finance condition and approval date suit the loan you are arranging, and email you the date.
The valuation
If the valuation comes in low, let us know and we explain your client’s options under the contract.
Approval delayed
If formal approval has not come through, we ask the vendor’s lawyer for an extension in writing before the date passes.
Approval date
If finance is approved, we let you know the contract is unconditional. If it is not, your client has 2 clear business days to end the contract and needs written evidence from the lender to do so.
Booking
We invite the lender’s settlement team into the electronic settlement and send them the settlement figures.
How we work with you
01 The approval date, in writing
We confirm the finance approval date in writing to your client and, with their consent, to you.
02 Extensions asked for early
If approval is running late, we ask the vendor for an extension before the date passes.
03 Progress updates
With your client’s consent, we email you when a lawyer is assigned, when the contract is signed, when it becomes unconditional, when settlement is booked and when it settles.
04 Mortgage discharges
On a sale or refinance, we ask the client to lodge the discharge authority straight away. Lenders often need 10 business days or more.
05 Identity checks
We verify your client at the start of the matter.
Who does what
You arrange the loan. We look after the contract that depends on it.
| Task | You | Lender | W Legal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loan application and approval | Yes | Yes | Not involved |
| Approval date and any extension | Tells us | Not involved | Yes |
| A valuation shortfall | Loan options | Not involved | Contract rights |
| Guarantor advice and certificate | Not involved | Requires it | Yes |
| Electronic settlement and figures | Not involved | Joins | Yes |
From contract to keys
Purchases
We review the contract before your client signs and take the purchase through to settlement.
- Contract and Section 32 reviews
- The loan condition and other special conditions explained before signing
- Electronic settlement
Refinances and mortgages
Changing lenders involves legal work too. Formal approval does not last indefinitely, so we book settlement with the lender’s deadline in mind.
- Refinances and discharges
- New mortgages and loan documents explained
Guarantors
Lenders often need a guarantor to receive independent legal advice before they sign.
- Independent advice to guarantors
- Solicitor’s certificates for lenders
First home buyers
No stamp duty up to $600,000 and reduced duty up to $750,000 for eligible first home buyers in Victoria, and a $10,000 grant for new homes up to $750,000. We check eligibility before the contract is signed.
Trusts and super funds
Some purchases need the right buying entity before the contract is signed.
- Purchases by trusts, companies and self-managed super funds
- Transfers between family members and related entities
Identity checks
Since 1 July 2026, law firms acting on property purchases must verify who their clients are under the anti-money laundering laws. We do it at the start of the matter.
Common questions
What if finance is not approved in time?
We ask for an extension before the date passes. If your client has to end the contract, they must give written notice with the lender’s written evidence within 2 clear business days of the approval date.
Can the approval date be changed?
Before signing, often yes, by negotiating with the vendor. After signing, only if the vendor agrees.
Do you give guarantor certificates?
Yes. We give the guarantor independent advice and sign the lender’s certificate confirming it was given.
Will you keep me updated?
Yes, where your client agrees. They are our client, and our advice goes to them.
Do you handle refinances with no sale?
Yes. We handle the discharge, the new mortgage and the settlement with both lenders.
How referrals work
1. Introduce your client
Call or email us with your client’s name and what they need, with their permission, or ask them to contact us.
2. We contact your client
We explain what is involved and confirm the scope and fee with your client directly.
3. You stay in the loop
With your client’s consent, we let you know when the key milestones are reached.
A few words from our clients
Read all 526 reviews on Google“The best in business! We received full support and transparency from start to finish. Mavis, Sarah and the whole team from W Legal thank you for your support! Super highly recommended”
“Very professional and helpful will definitely be using them again”
“Mavis was nothing short of brilliant. She is articulate, precise and knows exactly what she is talking about. We felt in very safe hands with her advice and knowledge. Everything went smoothly with the sale of our place - we would recommend her highly to anyone looking for a strong lawyer who knows her stuff.”
“Very happy with the prompt accurate information and financial transactions from W Legal. Will be using their services again for sure.”