Property Transfer Checklist

When It Applies

Not For

• Replacing conveyancer advice on title conditions, suspensive conditions, defects, VAT, or transfer duty exemptions.
• Litigation about a failed sale or disputed property rights.

Documents

• Offer to purchase
• ID and proof of address
• Marriage certificate or antenuptial contract
• Tax number
• Bond approval
• Proof of deposit and source of funds
• Rates and levy figures
• Compliance certificates
• Company or trust documents if applicable

Timeline

• Before signature: check offer terms and suspensive conditions.
• After signature: submit FICA, bond, rates, levy, and compliance documents.
• Before lodgement: confirm transfer duty/VAT, guarantees, and signed documents.
• On registration: complete handover and save final statements.

Tips

• Reply quickly to conveyancer document requests; transfer delays often follow missing FICA, rates, bond, or compliance items.
• Ask whether the seller is VAT-registered before assuming transfer duty applies.
• Do not release keys before the conveyancer confirms the agreed trigger.
• Keep proof of every payment and request a final account.

Warning Signs

• A suspensive condition deadline is close.
• Transfer duty, VAT, rates clearance, or levy clearance is unclear.
• The property description or seller details do not match title records.
• There is a dispute about defects, occupation, guarantees, or cancellation penalties.