Buying property is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make—whether it's your first home, an investment, or a dream retirement spot. In South Australia, the property purchase process involves several legal steps, and that’s where a conveyancer becomes your most valuable partner.

If you're buying property in SA, here’s what your conveyancer needs to know to help ensure a smooth, stress-free transaction.

1. Your Personal and Property Details

Before anything else, your conveyancer will need your full legal name (as it appears on your ID), contact details, and your relationship to any co-buyers. If you're buying with a partner, family member, or business associate, this must be disclosed early.

They’ll also need key details of the property you're buying, including:

1. The property address

2. Type of property (house, unit, land, off-the-plan, etc.)

3. Sale price

4. Copy of the signed contract of sale (if already available)

Having this information upfront helps your conveyancer prepare and lodge the correct documents with relevant authorities on your behalf.

2. The Source of Funds

Your conveyancer must know how you're financing the purchase:

1. Are you taking out a home loan?

2. Will it be a cash purchase?

3. Is the deposit being gifted by a family member?

If you’re using a mortgage broker or bank, your conveyancer will likely need to coordinate with them to ensure all financial arrangements align for settlement. For example, they’ll confirm when funds will be available, and they’ll communicate with the lender to arrange the payout on settlement day.

3. First Home Buyer Status

If you're a first home buyer, you're likely eligible for government grants or stamp duty concessions in South Australia. Your conveyancer needs to know this so they can:

1. Apply for the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) on your behalf

2. Ensure any eligible stamp duty exemptions or discounts are processed correctly

It's important to let your conveyancer know early in the process so no opportunities are missed.

4. Special Conditions in the Contract

Conveyancers are trained to spot potential red flags or unusual clauses in your contract. If your offer includes special conditions, such as:

1. Subject to finance approval

2. Subject to a building or pest inspection

3. Extended settlement date

… your conveyancer needs to review and confirm they are worded correctly and protect your legal interests.

They’ll also negotiate or clarify contract terms with the seller’s representative if needed.

5. Adjustments and Rates

One key responsibility of your conveyancer is calculating the adjustments on the property. These include:

1. Council rates

2. Water usage

3. Strata fees (if buying a unit)

They’ll ensure the seller pays their portion up to settlement, and you only take over from the settlement date. This avoids any surprises later on with outstanding bills.

6. Title Searches and Encumbrances

In South Australia, all property transactions are registered through Land Services SA. Your conveyancer will conduct searches to check:

1. Who currently owns the property

2. Whether there are any encumbrances, like easements, caveats, or mortgages

3. Zoning information and development restrictions

This ensures you know exactly what you're buying and whether any third party has a legal interest in the land.

7. Form 1 – The Vendor Disclosure Statement

The Form 1 is a critical document in SA conveyancing. It's provided by the seller and outlines important information about the property, including:

1. Title details

2. Outstanding rates or charges

3. Zoning and planning information

Your conveyancer will review the Form 1 thoroughly and advise you if there’s anything concerning. You have a cooling-off period after receiving this document, which gives you time to reconsider your purchase.

8. Settlement Process

On settlement day, your conveyancer will:

1. Finalise financial adjustments

2. Coordinate with your lender and the seller’s conveyancer

3. Transfer the property title into your name

4. Lodge all necessary documents with Land Services SA

They'll also notify you once the property officially becomes yours!

Final Thoughts

A great conveyancer doesn’t just process paperwork—they protect your interests, reduce your risk, and make the entire home-buying journey much smoother.

If you’re buying property in South Australia, make sure you choose a qualified, experienced conveyancer who understands the local laws, deadlines, and documentation required. Keeping them informed every step of the way ensures a hassle-free experience and helps you focus on the exciting part—moving into your new home!