As a side note, JacM, as a tenant…

I absolutely prefer the inbuilt cooktops and under-bench oven

It looks so much nicer and gives a more modern feel.

Perhaps if it would help I could post pictures of how our new kitchen looks (also a 2 bedroom apartment) and how it makes the place look much better?

ALF1 is completely correct with his summary of consideration and withdrawing.

Consideration is 1 part of what indicates that a contract has been established.

1. Offer – a good or a service needs to be offered.
2. Acceptance – the buyer must be willing to have what is being offered
3. Consideration – as mentioned above (usually in this case would be a deposit, but could also be something else like title to land or something, depends on the nature of the agreement).

Note that acceptance doesn't always have to be a written/signed agreement – sometimes verbal can be just as good – but I believe in Queensland (atleast) it is required for Land deals. My contract Law is a bit rusty!

At the end of the day, if you are worried about your legal obligations consult a legal professional!!

good luck, hope it works out for you

Good read.

Congratulations on your success Nathan!

I have turned 21 this year and am starting my road to purchasing my first investment property! Your success is a beacon of hope for younger people looking to get started in controlling their own financial future!

As per Scott No Mates – if you wanted to avoid a long legal process doing what you did was the right choice… that and that whole morality/ethical thing?

As a side note – if I was the other person I would
a) find myself a new solicitor; and
b) read up about my rights when it comes to being represented. The Legal Practitioner associations don’t really look too lightly on professional negligence!

You did the right thing – and the solicitors screwed up bad.