Buying a Strata Title Property

Expert Strata Conveyancing for Apartments, Townhouses, and Units

Get in touch with a Strata Specialist Today!

When buying a strata title property, you aren’t just buying a home; you’re becoming part of a community scheme with its own financial obligations and shared rules. Our experienced team provides the thorough due diligence you need to ensure your investment is sound and your lifestyle is protected.

From reviewing complex strata by-laws to investigating the financial health of the Owners Corporation, we handle the legal heavy lifting so you can move into your new unit with confidence. Whether you’re eyeing a modern apartment in Blacktown or a townhouse in Penrith, we’ll protect your interests every step of the way.

Why choose us?

Our specialist team is trusted by Sydney buyers for our meticulous approach to strata title conveyancing.

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Affordable Fixed Fees

Transparent pricing for strata contract reviews and reports.

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Strata Expertise

We understand the nuances of the Strata Schemes Management Act and 2026 reforms.

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Local Knowledge

Expertise in Western Sydney developments from St Marys to Marsden Park.

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Proven Experience

Under the leadership of Christine Barnes, our team brings over 40 years of experience to every strata matter.

What our clients say about us

“The first off-the-plan property fell through but Christine made sure that everything proceeded smoothly including a stamp duty refund! … The team at Classic Conveyancing were extremely professional and efficient.”

Elin Beattie

    
 
 
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   Batman TheDarklord 
 
 
 
  They did a very good job for us. Highly recommended. We had some problems with the settlement date and delays with our bank and they went to great lengths to resolve the problem.
  
 
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   Alex Mullen 
 
 
 
  Christine and Taylor are awesome, I have always had a great experience with Classic Conveyancing. Their attention to detail and professionalism are always outstanding. I highly recommend their services.
  
 
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   Francis Ycasiano 
 
 
 
  Christine and team were always helpful throughout the whole process
  
 
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   Alyce Moussa 
 
 
 
  The second time I have worked with Christine from Classic Conveyancing and she just continues to set the bar. We had a very quick settlement and Christine worked tirelessly (whilst on her holiday mind you) to make sure everything worked seamlessly for us. I couldn’t be more grateful for the amazing work she has done for us.
  
 
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   Kaylie Jane 
 
 
 
  Thank you Christine for helping my partner and I with buying our first home! Communication is so important to me and Christine’s communication was great. I would send an email and she would ALWAYS respond so quickly and cleared up any questions I had as a first home buyer. She made the whole process simple and easy. I would highly recommend! Also, Christine and Clyde Gonsalvez from “better financial tomorrow” work so well together. Happy new year!
  
 
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   Elin Beattie 
 
 
 
  This is the third time in two years that I have used the services of Classic Conveyancing for both purchases and sale of my properties. Christine and her team provided excellent service and communication throughout each process and all my emails/concerns were always addressed promptly.
August 2022 property purchase had so many hassles as the first off-the -plan property fell through but Christine made sure that everything proceeded smoothly including a stamp duty refund!
January 2023 purchase had a few hassles but with sound advice and professional service from Christine, everything went smoothly.
November 2023. The team at Classic Conveyancing were extremely professional and efficient in the sale of our apartment. Christine and Taylor made the whole process of selling a property easy and were quick to respond to any queries especially involving non-resident client.
I would highly recommend the services of Classic Conveyancing and will continue to use them in the future.
Thank you, Christine and Taylor!
  
 
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   Alethea Mellon 
 
 
 
  We have bought and sold 5 properties with the help of Christine and her team. She has always helped out no matter how annying I am and we couldn't ask for a better conveyancer.
  
 
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   Bianca S 
 
 
 
  Could not praise Christine and Taylor enough. They are super efficient and professional. They got our house settled quickly despite massive hurdles and read all the fine print to ensure we were getting the best deal for us. We highly recommend choosing Classic Conveyancing Company particularly when buying your first property. Thanks so much for all your help!!!
  
 
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   Michelle Donovan 
 
 
 
  Christine has done several properties for me .She is very friendly and communicates every step of the way to settlement.She is very professional and I have no problem recommending her services to family and friends.

Our strata services include

Strata Report Analysis: We help you interpret the Strata Inspection Report, identifying “special levies,” building defects, or low capital works funds.
By-Law Reviews: We check the “fine print” on pet policies, renovation restrictions, and parking rights to ensure the building fits your lifestyle.
2026 Compliance Checks: We ensure the scheme meets the latest NSW requirements for building bond schemes and mandatory maintenance schedules.
Financial Due Diligence: Investigation into the sinking fund and administrative fund to ensure you aren’t inheriting the previous owner’s debts.
Liaising with Strata Managers: We coordinate with managers and stakeholders to ensure all Section 184 Certificates are accurate for settlement.
Off-the-Plan Strata: Specialised advice for buyers purchasing units in new estates, focusing on sunset clauses and schedule of finishes.

Get in touch with our Strata team

We provide expert strata advice for property owners, buyers, and committees, helping you navigate strata matters with confidence.

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Section 184 Certificate and why do I need it?

A Section 184 Certificate (previously known as a Section 109) is an official financial snapshot of the specific lot you are buying. It is a legal requirement in the conveyancing process because it confirms:

Any outstanding levies or interest owed by the current owner.
The current balance of the Administrative Fund and Capital Works Fund.
The names of the strata committee members and the managing agent.
The building’s insurance coverage details.
2026 Update: It now also discloses if the building is part of an “Embedded Network” (exclusive supply contracts for electricity or gas).

What is the difference between regular levies and "Special Levies"?

Administrative Levies: Cover day-to-day costs like cleaning, gardening, insurance, and small repairs.
Capital Works Levies (Sinking Fund): Long-term savings for major works like roof replacement or painting.
Special Levies: These are one-off, often urgent charges raised when there aren’t enough funds in the Capital Works account to cover an unexpected expense (e.g., major structural repairs or fire safety upgrades). We check the meeting minutes to see if any Special Levies are “on the horizon.”

Can the Strata Committee stop me from having a pet?

Under current NSW laws, an Owners Corporation cannot “unreasonably” refuse a pet. However, they can set by-laws regarding noise, mess, and how the pet travels through common areas (e.g., must be on a lead in the lobby). We always review the specific by-laws of the scheme before you exchange contracts to ensure your furry friend is welcome.

I want to renovate my apartment. Do I need permission?

Yes, usually. NSW law classifies renovations into three categories:

Cosmetic Work: (e.g., painting, laying carpet) – No approval needed.
Minor Renovations: (e.g., kitchen renovation, installing floorboards) – Requires a standard resolution at a committee meeting.
– 2026 Reform: If the committee doesn’t provide a written reason for refusal within 3 months, the work is now automatically approved.
Major Renovations: (e.g., structural changes, waterproofing) – Requires a special resolution at a General Meeting.

What is "Unit Entitlement" and how does it affect me?

Your Unit Entitlement (found on the Strata Plan) determines two main things:

Your Costs: How much you pay in levies compared to other owners.
Your Power: The weight of your vote on key decisions at meetings. A larger penthouse will typically have a higher unit entitlement (and higher fees) than a one-bedroom unit in the same building.

Are there extra protections for "Off-the-Plan" strata buyers?

Yes. In 2026, developers must provide more transparency than ever before. This includes:

Independent Review: For multi-storey buildings, an independent surveyor must certify that the developer’s initial levy estimates are realistic.
Standardised Maintenance: Developers must provide an Initial Maintenance Schedule in a government-standard form to ensure the building is looked after from Day 1
Sunset Clause Protection: Developers cannot rescind your contract due to delays without your written consent or a Supreme Court order.