How Long Does Settlement Really Take?
Most Australian property sales settle 30–90 days after the contract is signed, depending on what's negotiated.
1. Listing
Your agent lists the property, setting an asking price and getting it ready to go to market.
You: decide your asking price with your agent's input, sign the listing agreement.
Your agent: prepares marketing materials and gets the listing live.
2. Marketing
Your property is advertised through photography, online listings, and open homes to attract buyers.
You: approve photos and listing copy.
Your agent: arranges professional photography, online ads, and open homes.
3. Offers
Buyers submit offers, which you can accept, reject, or negotiate.
You: decide whether to accept, reject, or negotiate.
Your agent: presents offers and negotiates on your behalf.
4. Contract
Once you accept an offer, it becomes binding once any conditions (finance, building/pest inspection) are met — usually within 1–3 weeks.
You: sign the contract and arrange any conditions (e.g., finance).
Your agent: manages the paperwork and liaises with the buyer's side.
5. Settlement
Your conveyancer or settlement agent handles title checks and paperwork, funds transfer, and keys are handed over — ownership officially changes on settlement day.
You: hand over keys and vacate the property.
Your agent/conveyancer: handles the legal transfer, funds, and final paperwork.
Typical total: around 6–12 weeks from accepted offer to settlement, though it can move faster or slower depending on buyer finance and what's agreed in the contract.