Home buying checklist

Whether you’re buying or investing in land, purchasing property can be a complex process.

Our homebuyers’ checklist takes you through the main steps involved in buying land to make this exciting time even happier.

Step 1: Set your budget

Calculate how much you can afford

Choose your finance provider

Find the right kind of loan for you

Obtain pre-approval

Confirm other possible costs

  • Fees
  • Mortgage insurance
  • Stamp duty
  • Cash deposit
  • Conveyancing fees
  • Settlement agent fees
  • Property inspection costs
  • Shared rates
  • General Sales Tax (GST)

Investigate State and Federal government grants available

For more information, see Money Matters section.

Step 2: Select and secure your homesite

Identify the right area for you
Choose your land
Sign contract of sale
Exchange of contracts
Finalise any contract requirements
Transfer of land
Register of land title
Final settlement

For more information, see Planning.

Step 3: Build your ideal home

Choose a home design

  • Project home or
  • Custom-built home
Select an architect (for custom homes)
Select a builder or contractor
Review building guidelines
Start building
Monitor progress and results

For more information, see Building.

Step 4: Move in or rent out

Moving in:

Lodge a notification of change of address
Redirect mail with Australia Post
Select a removalist and move in!

Renting out:

Ensure a formal tenancy agreement is in place