Southern Highlands Conveyancing and Property Lawyers
Acreage, heritage homes and bushfire checks in Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale
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The Southern Highlands draws buyers from Sydney looking for acreage, weekenders and character homes in Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale. Rural land and older homes need more checking than a suburban house, and much of it has to happen before exchange.
Optimum Lawyers is a property law firm in Parramatta Square, led by principal solicitor Wisam Assi. We act on purchases, sales and transfers in every Australian state and territory.

Send us the contract before you exchange
We offer a free initial contract assessment. It is a brief first look at whether the contract appears ready for a full paid legal review. It is not the full review, and it is not free conveyancing.
Checks that are specific to the Southern Highlands
- Rural zoning. Check whether you can build, subdivide or add a second dwelling under the zoning, and what the minimum lot size is
- Water and services. Rural lots may rely on tanks, bores, dams and on-site wastewater systems rather than town services. Check approvals and licences
- Bushfire prone land. Much of the area is bushfire prone. New building work must meet the bushfire attack level for the site
- Heritage homes. Older homes in Bowral and Moss Vale may be heritage listed or in conservation areas, which limits changes
NSW contract basics
- The contract comes first. A NSW property cannot be advertised until the contract has been prepared, so it can be reviewed before you make an offer.
- Cooling-off. 5 business days on a private sale, ending at 5pm on the fifth business day. You forfeit 0.25% of the price if you withdraw. It is 10 business days for off-the-plan purchases.
- Waivers and auctions. A section 66W certificate removes the cooling-off period, so sign one only after the contract has been checked. There is no cooling-off at auction.
Selling in the Southern Highlands
The contract, with its prescribed documents including the title search and planning certificate, must be ready before the property is advertised. Every seller needs an ATO clearance certificate, or the buyer must withhold 15% of the price at settlement.
Transfers without a sale
We also act on transfers between partners, after a separation, from a deceased estate, and into or out of a trust or self-managed super fund. NSW duty can apply even where no money changes hands, so get advice before anything is signed. See stamp duty in NSW.
Lawyer or conveyancer?
A conveyancer can handle a simple purchase well. A property lawyer can also advise on the contract before you sign, negotiate its terms, and act for you if the sale is disputed.
What clients say
“Wisam has been an invaluable partner throughout both my property buying and selling journeys.”
Katrina Ong, Google review
Questions about conveyancing in the Southern Highlands
What should I check when buying acreage in the Southern Highlands?
Zoning, access, water, wastewater, fencing, bushfire status and any rights of way or easements.
Can I build a second home on my Southern Highlands block?
It depends on the zoning and lot size. Check the planning certificate before you buy.
How long is the cooling-off period in NSW?
Five business days on a private sale, ending at 5pm on the fifth business day. You forfeit 0.25% of the price if you withdraw. There is none at auction.
Do I need to come to your office?
No. Documents can be signed electronically and NSW settlements are completed electronically. You are welcome to meet us at Parramatta Square.
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