Ask for a written estimate of costs and the likely range of outcomes before anything is filed.

Write down what was said, by whom and when, then talk to a lawyer this week. An unfair dismissal claim has to be lodged within 21 days.

Send us the contract and the Section 32 before you sign. We’ll tell you which three clauses matter for your purchase.

List what you own and owe, together and apart, and keep copies of the statements before anyone moves out.

Gather the latest paperwork you can find, then call us before anyone divides up belongings or closes accounts.

Gather your lease, key contracts and staff agreements in one folder before you speak to a buyer or a broker.

Ask for the contract a day before you’re due to sign it, and have the restraint clause read before you accept the offer.

Note the deadline in the letter, keep every related document, and send it to us before you reply.

Don’t sign anything about the house, or stop paying the mortgage, until you’ve had property settlement advice.