The Fine Print Behind Big Moves

Big moves often start with big dreams — a new suburb, more space, better schools, or even a fresh chapter in a different city. But behind the excitement of packing boxes and house-hunting lies a maze of legalities, logistics, and paperwork that can quietly make or break your experience. It’s easy to get caught up in the emotional side of moving and overlook the fine print that sits just beneath the surface.

If you’re thinking, “Is now the right time to sell my house Campbelltown?” you’re probably already considering the practical steps ahead. But before that ‘For Sale’ sign goes up, or your dream home goes under offer, understanding the finer details is key to making confident, informed decisions. Because the small stuff? It matters — and often more than you’d think.

Here’s what to look out for (and how to stay ahead of it) when your next big move is on the horizon.

Contracts: More Than Just a Signature

The sale or purchase of property in Australia involves a legally binding contract — and it’s not something you should skim over. The contract of sale lays out everything from the deposit amount to inclusions, settlement date, and special conditions. Missing or misunderstanding even a small clause can have major consequences.

For sellers, you’ll need to:

• Disclose all relevant information about the property (including boundaries, zoning, and defects)

• Understand what fixtures and fittings are included in the sale

• Ensure the buyer’s deposit terms and timelines are clearly set

For buyers, always:

• Have the contract reviewed by a conveyancer or solicitor before signing

• Be aware of your cooling-off period (which varies by state)

• Know your obligations around finance approval and settlement dates

Contracts aren’t just formality — they’re protection. Make sure they’re reviewed by someone who knows exactly what to look for.

Pre-Sale Legal Requirements

If you’re selling your property, your legal obligations start before you even list. Depending on your state, you may be required to provide a vendor’s disclosure statement (also known as a Section 32 in Victoria or a Contract for Sale in NSW). This document discloses key information about the property, including:

• Title details and land zoning

• Easements and covenants

• Council rates and water supply info

• Any existing leases or tenancies

This paperwork must be accurate and up-to-date. If it’s not, you could risk the buyer pulling out of the sale — even at the last minute. A good conveyancer will help you gather and double-check all necessary documents so that nothing gets missed.

Understanding Hidden Costs

Budgeting for a move goes beyond sale prices and deposits. There are plenty of costs that can sneak up if you’re not watching closely. Here’s a breakdown of often-overlooked expenses:

For sellers:

• Agent commission and marketing fees

• Conveyancing or legal fees

• Mortgage discharge fees

• Moving and cleaning costs

• Capital gains tax (in rare cases, like investment properties)

For buyers:

• Stamp duty (a big one — and it varies significantly depending on location and price)

• Building and pest inspections

• Loan application and bank fees

• Transfer and registration charges

• Settlement adjustments for council rates or utilities

The total can add up quickly, so make sure you build a buffer into your moving budget.

Finance Isn’t Always Straightforward

If you’re buying another property while selling your current one, things can get tricky. You might need bridging finance — a short-term loan to cover the gap between buying and selling. These loans can help you avoid rushed sales or temporary renting, but they also come with higher interest rates and require careful management.

Some key questions to consider:

• Can you realistically service two mortgages temporarily?

• What’s your backup plan if your home takes longer to sell?

• Have you spoken to your broker about conditional loan approvals?

Speak to a mortgage broker early in the process so you know your limits and avoid being caught out mid-move.

Building and Pest Inspections Matter (Even When Everything Looks Fine)

For buyers, ordering a building and pest inspection can feel like a formality — especially if the house looks well maintained. But appearances can be deceiving, and skipping this step can be a costly mistake.

These reports check for:

• Structural issues like cracks, roof damage or drainage problems

• Termite activity and conditions that encourage infestation

• Mould, leaks, or rising damp

• Illegal renovations or extensions

If you’re buying a property with any history — even minor — you’ll want to be armed with the facts. And if issues are uncovered, you’ll be in a stronger position to negotiate the price or request repairs before settlement.

Settlement Day Surprises

Settlement day is when ownership officially transfers and the balance of payment is made. It should be a celebration — but sometimes it’s where things go sideways.

Common hiccups include:

• Delays in transferring funds

• Last-minute disagreements over included items (like appliances or fixtures)

• Buyer or seller not fulfilling legal obligations in time

• Utility connections not being organised in advance

To avoid this, make sure:

• Your legal representative has all signed documents and identification ready

• You’ve confirmed key handover logistics with your agent

• You’ve organised home and contents insurance to start from settlement

• Utilities (gas, water, electricity, internet) are booked in advance

Preparation is your best defence against a stressful settlement day.

Selling with Tenants In Place

If you’re selling an investment property, you’ll need to work within the rules around tenant rights. Depending on the lease terms, you may have to:

• Provide adequate notice before inspections

• Respect privacy and access times

• Honour the existing lease (the buyer inherits the tenant until the end of the fixed-term agreement)

Some buyers will appreciate a ready-made investment. Others may want vacant possession, which can complicate the sale. The key is to work with your property manager and agent early to plan around the lease.

Knowing What You’re Signing Up For

The emotional energy that comes with buying or selling can sometimes cloud judgement. That’s why slowing down and reading the fine print is so important. Whether it’s understanding how your new strata fees work, what’s included in your property settlement, or what to do if the buyer pulls out — having the details in writing means you’re never left guessing.

Even something as simple as a typo in your name on a title deed can cause delays if not spotted early. Attention to detail matters at every step.

Big moves are exciting — they represent fresh starts and bold decisions. But behind every successful move is someone who took the time to ask questions, check the paperwork, and understand the finer points before diving in. With the right advice, a good team, and a clear grasp of what’s involved, you can move forward confidently — knowing the little details are all working in your favour.