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Buying & Selling

How a Property Transfer Works

Understand the main stages between a sale agreement and registration.

Start with the sale agreement

The agreement sets out the transaction, including the price, conditions and occupation arrangements. The transferring attorney is usually appointed by the seller. If finance is required, the bank appoints a bond attorney. These roles can be carried out by different firms.

Prepare the documents and costs

Your attorney will tell you which documents, signatures and payments are needed. Answer requests promptly and ask for an explanation before signing anything you do not understand. Keep a list of outstanding requirements and contact your conveyancing team if a condition or deadline in the agreement is approaching.

Lodgement and registration

Once the transaction is ready, the relevant attorneys lodge the documents for examination at the Deeds Office. Registration follows when the documents meet the requirements. Your attorney can confirm the stage of your particular matter; a general timeline is not a fixed completion date.

Occupation and registration are separate issues. Check the agreed occupation date and any occupational rent in the sale agreement before arranging a move.


General information. Contact WDS for advice about your circumstances.

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