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NSW13 January 2026Market Analysis

NSW Property Settlement Guide 2026: Complete Process Explained

Complete guide to NSW property settlement process. Understand timelines, costs, documents, and what happens on settlement day.

Property settlement in NSW is the legal process where ownership transfers from seller to buyer. Understanding the 30-60 day settlement process, required documents, and costs ensures a smooth transfer with no surprises.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every step of NSW property settlement, from contract exchange to receiving your keys.

NSW Settlement Process

  1. Day 1: Contract exchange; cooling-off period begins (5 business days for private sales)
  2. Days 1-14: Building/pest inspections, finance approval, conveyancer engaged
  3. Days 14-28: Loan formally approved, final contract review, adjustments calculated
  4. Days 28-35: Pre-settlement inspection, funds transferred to settlement agent
  5. Settlement Day: Ownership transfers, keys released, registration at Land Registry
  6. Post-Settlement: Certificate of title issued (digital), rates/utilities transferred

Typical Settlement Period

Standard: 30-42 days, Quick: 14-21 days, Extended: 60-90 days

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Settlement Costs Breakdown

Cost ItemAmountWho Pays
Stamp Duty$17,990-$65,490Buyer
Conveyancing$1,200-2,500Both
Transfer Registration$150-250Buyer
Mortgage Registration$150Buyer
Title Search$50-150Buyer
Pest/Building Inspection$400-800Buyer
Lender Valuation$200-400Buyer
Total (approx)$20,000-70,000-

Settlement Day Checklist

1 Week Before

  • Confirm settlement time and location with conveyancer
  • Arrange final loan draw-down and transfers
  • Book removalists and utilities connections
  • Complete pre-settlement inspection

Settlement Day

  • Conveyancers exchange documents and funds
  • Bank releases funds to seller
  • Ownership transfers at Land Registry
  • Agent releases keys to buyer

After Settlement

  • Transfer utilities (electricity, gas, water)
  • Update address with banks, government, employers
  • Arrange home insurance
  • Keep settlement statement for tax records

NSW property settlement is straightforward with proper planning and expert guidance. Understanding the process and preparing documents early ensures a smooth settlement day.

Approaching settlement? Book a consultation to review your settlement timeline and costs.