Property Buying Guides
Expert guides to help you understand your Contract of Sale and Section 32
Showing 24 of 111 guides.
First Home Buyer Schemes in Victoria 2026: Every Stamp Duty Concession, Grant, and Loan Program
The complete list of stamp duty exemptions, grants, and federal programs available to Victorian first home buyers in 2026 — eligibility, stacking rules, and what affects each program in your Section 32.
The 10 Most Expensive First Home Buyer Mistakes in Victoria (and How to Avoid Each One)
The 10 contract-level mistakes that cost Victorian first home buyers the most money — with dollar impact ranges and the specific Section 32 check that prevents each.
First Home Buyer Timeline in Victoria: Week-by-Week, From Pre-Approval to Keys
The Victorian first home buyer journey mapped phase by phase — pre-approval, inspections, contract signing, cooling-off, conditions period, settlement on PEXA, and post-settlement.
Victoria's Public Selective Schools: A Buyer's Guide to Areas, Commute, and Property
Where Victoria's four selective entry high schools are, what makes their property markets distinctive, and the Section 32 considerations specific to each surrounding suburb.
APS Schools in Victoria: Property Implications of Buying Near Melbourne's Associated Public Schools
The 11 APS schools, the suburbs they operate in, and the Heritage Overlay, owners corporation, and tax considerations that come with property in those precincts.
What is a Section 32? A Plain English Guide for Victorian Property Buyers
Everything you need to know about the Vendor's Statement — what it contains, why it matters, and what to look for before you sign.
5 Red Flags in Vendor's Statements That Could Cost You Thousands
These are the issues most buyers miss — and most solicitors charge hundreds to find. Learn what to look for before your next open inspection.
First Home Buyer's Guide to Section 32 and Contracts of Sale
Buying your first property in Victoria? Here's everything you need to understand about the paperwork — explained without the legal jargon.
What is a Contract of Sale? Understanding Your Property Purchase Agreement
The contract of sale is what you actually sign when buying property. Here's what every section means and what to watch out for.
The Hidden Costs of Buying Property in Victoria (Beyond the Purchase Price)
Stamp duty is just the beginning. OC fees, special levies, building inspections — here's the full breakdown of what buying really costs.
Owner's Corporation Fees Explained: What Every Apartment Buyer Needs to Know
OC fees, special levies, sinking funds — what they mean, how much they cost, and the red flags to watch for in the OC certificate.
Cooling-Off Period in Victoria: Your Rights After Signing a Contract
You have 3 business days to change your mind — but there are exceptions. Here's exactly how the cooling-off period works and when it doesn't apply.
Victorian Stamp Duty: How Much Will You Pay? (2025 Rates & Calculator)
A complete guide to land transfer duty in Victoria — current rates, first home buyer exemptions, and how to calculate exactly what you'll owe.
12 Questions to Ask Your Solicitor Before Buying Property
Don't go into your solicitor meeting unprepared. These are the questions experienced buyers ask — and the answers you need to hear.
Buying at Auction in Victoria: What You Need to Know (and Do Before Bidding)
No cooling-off period, no subject-to-finance — auction rules are different. Here's how to prepare so you don't get caught out.
The Complete Due Diligence Checklist for Victorian Property Buyers
Consumer Affairs Victoria requires this checklist for every property sale. Here's every item you should check — and how to actually do each one.
The Settlement Process in Victoria: A Step-by-Step Timeline
From signing the contract to getting the keys — here's exactly what happens during settlement, who does what, and what can go wrong.
Easements, Covenants, and Restrictions on Title: What They Mean for Your Property
Your title search shows an easement or restrictive covenant. Should you worry? Here's what each type means and how it affects what you can do with the property.
Do You Need a Building Inspection Before Buying? What It Covers and What It Costs
A building inspection can save you from a money pit — but it can also be a waste if you don't know what to look for in the report.
Special Conditions in a Contract of Sale: What to Add, What to Watch For
Subject to finance, subject to building inspection, sunset clauses — special conditions can protect you or trap you. Here's how to get them right.
Planning Zones and Overlays in Victoria: How They Affect Your Property
Heritage overlay? Bushfire zone? Flood overlay? What your planning certificate means for renovations, development, and insurance costs.
Buying Off the Plan in Victoria: Risks, Rights, and Red Flags
No cooling-off period after 3 days, sunset clauses that let developers walk away, and deposits at risk — what you need to know before committing.
Conveyancer vs Solicitor: Which Do You Need When Buying Property in Victoria?
Both can handle your property settlement — but they're not the same. Here's when you need a solicitor, when a conveyancer is enough, and what each costs.
What is PEXA? How Electronic Settlement Works in Victoria
Most Victorian settlements now happen on PEXA — not in a room with lawyers swapping cheques. Here's how the digital process works and what it means for you.
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