Conveyancing in Australia, explained simply
Buying or selling property anywhere in Australia? These independent guides walk you through the conveyancing process, what it costs, stamp duty, and the decisions you will face.
Based on Official Government Sources
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The buying and selling process, step by step
A conveyancer's involvement is highlighted below. Click any step for a one-line explanation, or switch between buying and selling.
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Loan pre-approval from your lender so you know your budget before you make an offer.
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Private treaty negotiation or a winning auction bid - either way, you have a deal.
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They review the contract and disclosure documents, ideally before you sign anything.
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Both parties sign and swap contracts; a deposit is paid. This is the point you are legally committed (subject to any cooling-off period).
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A short window to withdraw, if your state has one - length, cost, and exceptions vary by state.
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Your conveyancer runs searches, coordinates with your lender, and you arrange a pre-settlement inspection.
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Funds and title transfer between buyer and seller. You get the keys.
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Update rates, insurance and utilities, and move in.
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Engage a selling agent and start pulling together the documents your contract will need.
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They prepare the contract of sale and the disclosure documents your state requires before you can list.
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Private treaty or auction campaign, with the contract available to prospective buyers.
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You agree a price and terms with a buyer.
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Both parties sign and swap contracts; you receive a deposit.
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The buyer's right to withdraw, if your state has one - your conveyancer will tell you what applies.
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Your conveyancer arranges discharge of your existing mortgage (if any) and finalises rate and levy adjustments.
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Funds are received, title transfers to the buyer, and the sale is complete.
Choose your state
Conveyancing rules, costs and stamp duty differ in every state. Start with yours.
Tools & comparisons
Work out the numbers for your own purchase, or compare the rules across all 8 states and territories.
Start here
New to conveyancing? These guides apply no matter which state or territory you are in - pick your state above for the rules that are specific to you.
Recommended reading
A few of the site's deeper guides, if you want to keep reading.
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