Navigating the Conveyancing Process: A Step-by-Step Guide for Home Sellers

Selling a home is a significant milestone, often accompanied by a mix of excitement and stress. One of the critical aspects of selling property is the conveyancing process. At Atlas Conveyancing, we understand that this process can seem daunting. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring you are well-prepared and confident in your journey from listing to closing the sale.

Step 1: Preparing Your Property for Sale

Street Appeal and Maintenance: First impressions matter. Enhance your property’s street appeal by tidying the garden, painting the front door, and ensuring the exterior looks inviting.

Repairs and Decluttering: Address minor repairs and declutter your home. A well-maintained and clutter-free home not only attracts buyers but also facilitates smoother inspections.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Professionals

Estate Agent: Select an experienced real estate agent who understands the local market and can effectively market your property.

Conveyancer: Engage a qualified conveyancer early in the process. Atlas Conveyancing provides expert services to manage your property sale, from drafting contracts to settlement.

Step 3: Legal Preparations

Section 32 Vendor Statement: Arrange the preparations of the Section 32 statement, also known as a vendor’s statement. This document provides buyers with essential information about the property, including title details, zoning, and any encumbrances. (Your conveyancer will prepare this)

Contract of Sale: Your conveyancer will draft the contract of sale, ensuring all terms and conditions are clearly outlined. When your Real Estate Agent has entered the terms of the sale (once a purchaser has placed an offer) we recommend you forward the completed contract to us for review before you sign which means we can ensure you understand any additional terms or conditions which have been included

Step 4: Marketing and Listing Your Property

Professional Photography: Invest in high-quality photos to make your property stand out online. A professional photographer can highlight the best features of your home. (Your real estate agent will usually arrange this)

Online Listings and Open Houses: Utilise multiple online platforms and hold open houses to reach a broader audience. Your estate agent will manage this aspect, attracting potential buyers.

Step 5: Negotiations and Offers

Reviewing Offers: When offers start coming in, if you make contact with your conveyancer, we will happily review them to ensure they meet your terms and are legally binding. This step is crucial to avoid any future disputes.

Negotiation: Be prepared for negotiations. Your estate agent will handle the discussions, but if you involve your conveyancer we will provide advice on any proposed changes to the contract.

Step 6: Inspections and Conditions

Building and Pest Inspections: Buyers will likely arrange for building and pest inspections. Ensure your property is accessible and address any minor issues beforehand to avoid complications.

Finance Approval: Many buyers will have a finance clause in the contract. Your conveyancer will liaise with the buyer’s lender to ensure all conditions are met within the stipulated timeframe.

Step 7: Settlement Day

Final Inspection: The buyer will conduct a final inspection to ensure the property’s condition hasn’t changed. This is usually done a few days (within 7 days leading up to settlement date) before settlement.

Settlement Process: On settlement day, your conveyancer will handle the transfer of funds and ensure all legal documents are correctly signed and lodged. This includes discharging any existing mortgages and updating the title. We will let you know as soon as settlement has been effected

Step 8: Post-Settlement Tasks

Handing Over Keys: Once settlement is complete, hand over the keys to the new owner (or the estate agent). Congratulations, you’ve successfully sold your home!

Record Keeping: Keep all documents related to the sale, including the contract, settlement statement, and any correspondence, for future reference.

Selling a home involves many steps, but with the right team by your side, it can be a smooth and rewarding process. At Atlas Conveyancing, we’re here to handle the contract intricacies, so you can focus on the exciting parts. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in your property sale.