🏡 [Buyer’s Guide] Overview of the Property Conveyancing Process in South Australia

Buying or selling a property is one of the biggest events many people experience only a few times in their lives.

For first‑time buyers especially, it’s common to feel unsure about where to start or what needs to be done at each stage of the process.

This article provides a simple and clear overview of how property transactions work in South Australia (SA).

By understanding the overall flow, you’ll be able to move forward with confidence and peace of mind.

1. Before the Contract: Finding a Property and Making an Offer

Once you find a property you like, you submit an offer.

If the seller accepts it, the contract preparation begins.

2. Reviewing the Contract and Form 1 (Vendor’s Statement)

In South Australia, the seller is legally required to provide the buyer with a Form 1 (Vendor’s Statement). This document includes important information about the land, such as restrictions, encumbrances, and other matters that may affect the property. It is essentially a background profile of the land.

Assuming the contract has already been executed, the cooling‑off period begins on the day the buyer receives the Form 1. During this period, the buyer may cancel the contract without giving any reason.

In most cases, the building and pest inspection is arranged to take place within this cooling‑off period.

It’s a good idea to engage a conveyancer during the cooling-off period so they can review the documents and provide you with helpful comments.

3. The Role of a Conveyancer

A conveyancer ensures the entire transaction proceeds smoothly and legally.

Key responsibilities include:

• Reviewing the contract and Form 1

• Ordering and checking government searches

• Preparing the settlement statement, including adjustments

• Preparing for settlement

• Coordinating with agents, banks, and clients

Engaging a conveyancer early helps avoid delays and unexpected issues.

4. Steps Leading to Settlement

After the contract is executed and the cooling-off period ends, the process typically includes:

• Loan approval

• Receiving settlement statement, including adjustments

• Preparing settlement funds

• Arrangin a removalist

• Arranging connection of utilities

• Final checks

• Settlement

• Moving in

Once settlement is complete, the keys will be handed over and ownership will officially transfer to the buyer.

5. Summary

Understanding the overall process helps reduce stress and gives you confidence throughout your property transaction.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact me.

I’m here to support you through every step of your conveyancing journey in South Australia.

Rits from Rits Conveyancing

contact@tatewaki.net | 0411 769 153