How to Plan for a Gold Coast Property Settlement Day?
To plan for a smooth Gold Coast property settlement day, confirm the date with your conveyancer and align your moving schedule. Pack early, prepare all documents, and settle any outstanding fees. Ensure that the included items stay and that personal belongings are removed. On settlement day, legal and financial transfers are completed, finalising the sale and handing possession to the buyer.
What Really Happens on a Gold Coast Property Settlement Day?
(And How to Get There Without Losing Sleep)
If you’re thinking about selling your home, there’s a good chance “settlement day” feels like something far off in the distance. Right now, it might be one of many things sitting in the too-hard basket.
But here’s the thing: settlement day is where everything becomes real. The keys change hands, the money hits your account, and you step into whatever comes next.
And whether that day runs smoothly or turns into a headache depends on the steps you take beforehand.
This page will help you understand what to expect, what to avoid, and how to prepare confidently, without feeling like you’ve missed something important.
What Exactly Is Settlement Day?
Settlement day is the official handover of the property from you (the seller) to the buyer. It’s the finish line, but also the point where delays or missteps can have real consequences.
It typically occurs approximately 30–45 days after the contract is signed, unless you and the buyer agree on a different timeframe.
On the day itself:
- The buyer’s bank pays your bank (and you) the purchase amount
- The title is transferred into the buyer’s name
- You hand over the keys, and the buyer gets legal ownership
- The agent releases your deposit (after any conditions are met)
Seems simple enough. However, as with any matter involving banks, solicitors, and tight timelines, it can become complicated if you’re not prepared.
Why Sellers Often Feel Stressed Around Settlement
Even if the contract’s been signed, sellers can get blindsided by:
- Last-minute delays from banks or buyers
- Confusion over who’s handling what
- Movers not turning up on time
- Final inspections raising last-minute issues
- Not knowing when the money will actually arrive
That’s why planning ahead (and knowing what not to leave until the last minute) makes such a big difference.
What You Can Do Now to Make Settlement Simple
Whether you’re weeks away or just starting to think about selling, here’s what helps:
1. Get Your Team Organised Early
Settlement involves your solicitor or conveyancer, the buyer’s legal team, banks, and your real estate agent.
Make sure:
- Everyone’s got each other’s contact details
- Your legal rep knows of any mortgages or caveats on the property
- You’ve chosen a settlement date that works with your moving plans
Need help with a reliable conveyancer? I’ve got local recommendations.
2. Start Packing Sooner Than You Think
Moving always takes longer than expected. Start with the stuff you rarely use and work backwards. That way, you’re not boxing up the kitchen at midnight the day before.
3. Prepare for the Final Inspection
Buyers are entitled to one final review, typically 24–48 hours before the settlement date. Make sure:
- Everything included in the contract is still in place
- The house is clean, empty, and in the same condition as when sold
- There are no surprises, like broken fittings or removed curtains
If anything is missing or damaged, the buyer can delay or request a repair.
4. Be Clear on the Money Side
Settlement doesn’t mean instant cash. Funds need to be processed and cleared. Check with your solicitor or bank to determine when you’ll actually have access to the money.
Avoiding Last-Minute Surprises
Here are a few things that can throw a spanner in the works:
- A missing signature or ID slows down the transfer
- You still owe body corporate fees or rates
- You’ve taken something the buyer thought was included (like a dishwasher)
- Your bank hasn’t finalised the loan discharge
Most of these issues are avoidable with a checklist.
You Don’t Need to Plan Everything at Once
If you’re still just thinking about selling, that’s okay. There’s no rush to plan every detail right now. But when you do decide to move forward, I’ll walk you through each step, including settlement, so nothing falls through the cracks.
THIS IS HOW YOUR JOURNEY TO A SUCCESSFUL GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE STARTS
My simplified guide below will take you through a 20-step process for selling your property anywhere on the Gold Coast;
I proudly sell homes across the entire coast.
1. PREPARING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY FOR SALE + SOME OF THE LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
- Tidying gardens and decluttering everything inside and out.
- All homes for sale, are legally required to have hardwired photoelectric, interconnected smoke alarms.
Non-removable 10-year battery smoke alarms can be installed as an alternative.
- By law, you are required to complete a pre-contractual seller’s disclosure statement: generally related to limitations, restraints, or defects in the property title, such as easements, covenants, leasing, zoning, etc.
- A pool safety certificate is also required if you have a swimming pool or if the property has a shared swimming pool (Body Corporate).
2. COMPARATIVE MARKET ANALYSIS REPORT FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
After showing me around your property, I will provide you with a Comparative Market Analysis (CMA) report. This is a detailed, legally required analysis of your home’s market value.
The CMA is based on recently sold and for-sale properties similar to yours in the immediate area. I will need to view your home to prepare this report.
3. SETTING A MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST HOME
The third step in selling your home is to create a marketing budget.
By law, this must be based on actual costs.
There are various marketing options to consider, such as:
– Internal, External and Drone Photography.
– Property and House Plans show potential buyers the exact layout of your home and property.
– Internet Advertising on platforms such as RealEstate.com.au, Domain.com.au, Facebook.com, Instagram.com, etc.
– For Sale Sign on the street is still essential to attracting potential buyers. Even though many buyers start their search online, they often drive around neighbourhoods to see what’s available.
A simple fact: Not having a For Sale sign can significantly reduce the number of people who see your property and may be interested in buying it.
4. PREPARING AND APPROVING THE FORM 6 AGREEMENT WHEN SELLING A GOLD COAST PROPERTY
A Form 6 Agreement is a document provided by the Queensland State Government. It outlines all relevant details of the property sale, including the marketing budget.
Our administration team will prepare this form for you and send it for your review and approval.
5. PAYING THE MARKETING BUDGET FOR YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY
Once you have approved the Form 6 Agreement, the next step is to pay for the marketing budget that you have chosen.
6. STARTING THE ADVERTISING PROCESS
Once your payment is received, the advertising campaign will commence.
Advertising strategies will align with the choices you made within your marketing budget.
7. MONITORING MARKET RESPONSE
If your property hasn’t received offers within 30 days, don’t assume there’s no interest.
It often means the price isn’t aligned with what buyers are willing to pay at this time.
This is your signal to review and adjust your pricing strategy so your home remains competitive and receives the attention it deserves.
8. ARRANGING BUYER VIEWINGS
When buyers express interest in your property, viewings will be arranged to allow them to see your home in person; you need to be away from the property during these viewings.
This helps potential buyers feel relaxed and visualise themselves as the new owners, thereby forming a deeper connection with your property.
9. CONSIDERING A BUYER’S OFFER
When you receive an offer on your home, it means a buyer is serious and ready to move forward at a certain price.
This is a key moment in your selling journey. Take the time to go over the offer carefully.
Look beyond the price; check the terms, conditions, and settlement timeframes. Make sure it works for you before accepting, countering, or declining.
10. ACCEPT, COUNTER, REJECT
When an offer is presented, you will need to respond by accepting, countering, or rejecting it.
Accepting locks in the agreed-upon price and terms.
Countering proposes changes and initiates further negotiations. If countering, present revised terms clearly; open, respectful communication is key for a smooth sale.
Rejecting means the offer is unacceptable; in this case, respond promptly and professionally, explaining your reasoning for the decision.
11. YOUR LEGALITIES
When you finally accept an offer, you will engage your conveyancer or solicitor to facilitate the legal requirements to complete the sale.
If you are part of a Body Corporate, you will need to provide a Disclosure Statement from them.
Your solicitor will use PEXA to settle your property. Part of the process requires Verification of Identity. Also, anyone selling a property must complete an ATO Clearance Certificate.
12. BUYER’S DEPOSIT
The buyer’s deposit is a crucial step in the property purchase process; it will be held in the agency’s Trust account.
This is a tangible expression of the buyer’s commitment to purchase your property.
13. BUILDING AND PEST INSPECTIONS
Typically, a buyer will arrange for a building and pest inspection report to be completed, usually within 14 days of the contract date.
Additionally, they may have the contract subject to finance, which is generally applicable for 21 days from the contract date.
14. COMPLETING YOUR GOLD COAST PROPERTY SALE
Based on the outcome of the building and pest inspection report, as well as any finance being sought, the buyer will proceed with their offer or withdraw it.
At this point, the sale either falls through or becomes unconditional.
15. LOOKING FOR YOUR NEW PROPERTY
If the sale becomes unconditional, it is time to start looking for a new property. Remember, there is no need to rush.
It is essential that you take your time, as this needs to be a very considered purchase.
Your new home is of substantial value and can be costly if you change your mind. Something you may want to investigate is Short-Term Bridging Loans.
16. ALTERNATIVES YOU SHOULD CONSIDER
An alternative to seriously consider when deciding where to live between selling and buying is renting while you look for a new property.
Renting for a short period gives you breathing room; it allows you time to clear your head, make a confident, considered decision, and ultimately buy where you truly want to live, with no pressure or panic.
17. TIME FOR YOU TO MOVE
Leaving your home opens doors to a new chapter full of new beginnings. Embrace the excitement of a fresh start and cherish the memories you’ve made.
Every box you pack brings you one step closer to a new adventure full of possibilities that lie ahead.
18. YOUR SALE CONCLUDES
The culmination of the property sale is settlement; it marks the transfer of the property to the new buyer.
As the final chapter concludes, this marks a sense of achievement: your property has now SOLD.
19. YOUR FUTURE OPTIONS
If you have chosen to rent, you will continue to look for and eventually purchase a property, apartment, or perhaps even buy land and build; now there’s something to consider.
20. TIME TO UNWIND AND MAKE YOUR NEW HOME YOUR OWN
As you unpack and furnish your new home, embrace the gradual process of creating your haven.
Enjoy the transformation, one room at a time.
Relax in the tranquillity of your surroundings and immerse yourself in the gentle sounds of your new neighbourhood.
Explore the nearby parks and cafes; enjoy the unique charm of your new community.
Remember, settling in is a journey in itself; it’s not a race. Embrace the process of creating a home that reflects your unique style and personality.
Whether you’re downsizing, relocating or just ready to move on, I’ll guide you through every step of selling your Gold Coast home with confidence and ease.
Navigating the intricacies of selling your property can be complex, but it doesn’t have to be.
My 20-step guide provides a simplified general overview; as you would naturally expect, your steps may vary.
Author – Craig Douglas
Are you ready for a conversation about selling your Gold Coast home?
Let’s get you Selling
LET’S GET YOU SOLD
Craig Douglas 0418 189 963
Professional | Knowledgeable | Experienced
You can find me working at a Boutique Real Estate Agency
These are just some of the suburbs that I proudly sell homes in:
Highland Park
Please Note: The information contained in this document is for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The laws and regulations governing the sale of property in Queensland are complex and constantly changing. It is important to seek the advice of a qualified property lawyer or conveyancer before making any decisions about the sale of your property. This document does not take into account your individual circumstances and may not apply to your situation. By reading this document you agree that you have not relied on the information contained herein and that you will seek independent legal advice before taking any action.
This page was proudly created by Craig Douglas, your local independent Gold Coast real estate agent, working for a Boutique Real Estate Agency. Selling residential and commercial properties, from those that are awe-inspiring, through to a diamond-in-the-rough, otherwise known as a “renovator’s delight“.
I negotiate and sell on behalf of property owners who want to get the best possible price, with the least amount of hassle. Let’s talk about the process of selling your property over a coffee to get you started – 0418 189 963
