A Sydney first-home buyer could be left almost $40,000 out of pocket after discovering a promised developer contribution was not included in her property contract.
It is a timely reminder for anyone buying property in NSW:
If a promise affects your decision to buy, make sure it is properly documented before you sign.
What happened?
ABC reported in September 2026 that a buyer purchasing an off-the-plan apartment in Marsden Park for around $800,000 had been offered a 5% developer contribution at settlement.
That contribution was worth close to $40,000.
The offer had reportedly appeared in communications during the sale process, but it was not included in the signed contract.
After developer Bathla Group entered voluntary administration, the buyer was left uncertain about whether that contribution would still be honoured.
That is where a good deal can suddenly become a very different financial decision.
The lesson for NSW buyers
Property deals often come with extras.
You may be offered:
* A cash contribution
* A rebate or discount
* Free upgrades
* Appliances or inclusions
* Settlement incentives
* Special deposit arrangements
These offers can be valuable, especially for first-home buyers.
But the important question is not simply:
“What have I been promised?”
It is:
“Where is that promise written?”
Before you sign, check these 3 things
1. Is the incentive clearly documented?
Do not rely only on a brochure, email, message or sales conversation.
2. Who is responsible for providing it?
Know whether the promise comes from the developer, vendor or another party.
3. Has your own conveyancer or solicitor reviewed it?
NSW Government guidance recommends that buyers have off-the-plan contracts independently reviewed before committing.
This is especially important because off-the-plan purchases can involve long settlement periods, construction delays and changes in circumstances before the property is completed.
A simple rule worth remembering
If a $10,000, $20,000 or $40,000 incentive is part of the reason you are buying the property, treat it like part of the purchase price.
Do not assume it will “sort itself out later”.
Make sure you understand exactly how it works before you exchange contracts.
Thinking about buying property in Sydney?
The best property decisions usually come from asking the right questions early.
If you are considering buying or investing in Greater Sydney, speak with *RnJ Realty* about the property, the local market and the practical issues worth considering before you commit.
For contract or legal advice, always speak with an independent solicitor or licensed conveyancer.
Speak with RnJ Realty
General information only. This article does not constitute legal or financial advice.
