Plan ahead
Property transaction calendar
A step-by-step guide to buying or selling property in QLD, NSW & VIC. Plan ahead and know what's coming at every stage.
1 – 3 weeks
1 – 3 weeks
Determine your budget
See your bank or mortgage broker to find out how much you can borrow.
Set a budget factoring in your salary, expenses, and estimated repayments.
Get loan pre-approval and note any expiry date (usually 3 – 6 months).
8 – 12 weeks
8 – 12 weeks
Find your property
Search listings in your preferred locations and price range.
Inspect the physical condition, location, and amenities carefully.
Compare similar properties and recent sales in the area.
1 – 2 days
1 – 2 days
Contact Atlas Lawyers
Engage Atlas Lawyers Conveyancing for a fixed-fee, lawyer-led service in QLD, NSW or VIC.
We review the contract before you sign and flag any risks or unfair terms.
1 – 2 days
1 – 2 days
Building & pest inspections
Arrange a building and pest inspection to check for structural issues, mould, and pests.
Review the report with your Atlas lawyer before committing to the purchase.
1 – 2 days
1 – 2 days
Make an offer
Submit your offer taking into account the contract review recommendations.
Negotiate special conditions — finance, building & pest, settlement date — with guidance from Atlas.
1 – 2 days
1 – 2 days
Sign & exchange contracts
Both buyer and seller sign — exchange is complete when all parties hold a signed copy.
Pay the deposit (typically 5 – 10% of the purchase price).
4 – 8 weeks
4 – 8 weeks
Atlas handles your conveyancing
We verify your identity and prepare all legal transfer documents.
We run title, council, and all required property searches.
We liaise with your bank, the seller's solicitor, and the real estate agent.
We adjust rates and outgoings between buyer and seller ahead of settlement.
4 – 8 weeks
4 – 8 weeks (parallel)
Organise your finances
Apply for formal finance approval and sign your loan documents.
Arrange building insurance — your lender requires proof before settlement.
Settlement day
Settlement day
Settlement & key handover
Atlas finalises all paperwork and coordinates digital settlement with all parties.
We notify the relevant government departments and lodge the transfer of title.
The property is officially yours — collect the keys!
1 – 3 weeks
1 – 3 weeks
Prepare to sell
Research current market conditions and comparable recent sales.
Complete any repairs or styling to maximise your sale price.
Choose a real estate agent and agree on a selling strategy (private treaty or auction).
1 – 2 days
1 – 2 days
Engage Atlas Lawyers early
Atlas prepares your contract of sale and all vendor disclosure documents.
In QLD we prepare the Seller Disclosure Statement; in VIC, your Section 32 Vendor Statement.
Engaging early avoids delays — contracts must be ready before you can legally market in some states.
4 – 8 weeks
4 – 8 weeks
Market your property
Arrange professional photography and list on major portals.
Hold open homes and private inspections.
Receive and review offers in consultation with your agent.
1 – 2 days
1 – 2 days
Accept an offer & exchange
Negotiate the sale price and any special conditions with the buyer.
Sign and exchange contracts — binding commitment from both parties.
Receive the deposit (usually 5 – 10%), held in trust until settlement.
4 – 8 weeks
4 – 8 weeks
Atlas manages the settlement period
We prepare all transfer documents and respond to any buyer requisitions.
We liaise with your bank to discharge any existing mortgage over the property.
We calculate rate adjustments and prepare the settlement statement.
Before settlement
Before settlement
Prepare to vacate
Arrange removalists and redirect your mail ahead of settlement day.
Notify utility providers — electricity, gas, internet — of your move-out date.
Leave the property in agreed condition for the buyer's pre-settlement inspection.
Settlement day
Settlement day
Settlement complete
Atlas coordinates digital settlement — funds and title transfer simultaneously.
Your mortgage is discharged and sale proceeds are released to you.
Hand over the keys — the sale is done!
Ready to get started? Our lawyers are available across QLD, NSW and VIC at a fixed fee — no surprises.
Get a quote from Atlas Lawyers