Buying Property in Melbourne? Understand the Process Before You Sign

Clear, step-by-step conveyancing guidance from experienced Melbourne professionals. We handle the legal complexity so you can focus on your new home.

What Is Conveyancing?

Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring property ownership from one person to another. When you buy a home in Victoria, a licensed conveyancer reviews the contract, conducts searches, manages settlement, and ensures everything is legally sound — so you’re protected every step of the way.

Due Diligence

Thorough property searches to uncover any risks before you commit.

Legal Protection

Expert contract review to protect your interests and avoid costly mistakes.

Smooth Settlement

We coordinate with all parties to ensure a stress-free settlement day.

How Conveyancing Works

Your conveyancer handles the legal side of buying property. Here’s what’s involved:

The Buying Process: Step by Step

Here’s what happens from the moment you find a property to getting the keys.

1Step 1: You Find a Property

Once you’ve found a property you’d like to buy, get in touch with us before you sign anything. We’ll review the Contract of Sale and the Section 32 Vendor Statement to make sure there are no hidden issues.

We carefully examine the contract terms and Section 32 statement, checking for any red flags, special conditions, or risks. We’ll explain everything in plain English and advise whether it’s safe to proceed. 

Once you’re happy to go ahead, you sign the contract. In Victoria, you typically have a 3-business-day cooling-off period for private sales. At auction, there is no cooling-off period. 

We perform essential property searches — including title searches, planning certificates, water and council rates — to confirm there are no encumbrances, debts, or planning issues affecting the property. 

If your contract is subject to finance, we track your approval timeline and ensure conditions are met on time. We also liaise with your bank or mortgage broker to prepare for settlement. 

Before settlement, we calculate rate adjustments (council, water, owners corporation fees) and prepare the final settlement statement. We ensure all figures are accurate and fair. 

On settlement day, ownership officially transfers to you. We coordinate with all parties — the vendor’s representative, your lender, and the land registry — to make sure everything goes smoothly. You get the keys! 

What Haitch Conveyancing Does for You

We take the stress out of buying property. Here’s what you get when you work with us:

Who Does What?

A clear breakdown of responsibilities during the property buying process.

Task

Haitch

You

Bank

Review Contract of Sale & Section 32

Conduct property title searches

Explain contract terms in plain English

Arrange finance / mortgage approval

Organise building & pest inspections

Calculate settlement adjustments

Coordinate settlement day

Transfer property ownership

Pay stamp duty

The Buying Process: Step by Step

Here’s what happens from the moment you find a property to getting the keys.

How much does conveyancing cost?

We offer fixed-fee pricing so you know exactly what you’ll pay upfront. Our fees are competitive and transparent — no hidden charges. Contact us for a personalised quote.

Absolutely. At auction, there’s no cooling-off period, so you need your contract reviewed before auction day. We’ll review the Section 32 and contract in advance so you can bid with confidence. 

Both can handle property transfers in Victoria. Licensed conveyancers specialise exclusively in property transactions, which often means faster, more focused service at a competitive price. 

Typically 30 to 90 days from signing the contract to settlement, depending on the terms agreed. We keep you updated throughout the entire process. 

As early as possible — ideally before you sign anything. If you’re attending an auction, get the contract reviewed at least a few days beforehand. 

A Section 32 (Vendor Statement) is a legal document the seller must provide before a property is sold. It contains important details about the property including title, planning, and any restrictions. 

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you’re buying your first home or your next investment property, Haitch Conveyancing is here to make the process simple, transparent, and stress-free. Get in touch today.