Question 1

What does a settlement agent do in Western Australia?

Accepted Answer

A settlement agent manages the legal and administrative processes required to transfer property ownership. This includes preparing and lodging documents, conducting title and property searches, coordinating with financial institutions, and facilitating settlement through PEXA where applicable.
Their role is to ensure the transaction completes accurately, on time, and in compliance with WA property regulations

Question 2

What is the difference between a conveyancer and a settlement agent?

Accepted Answer

In Western Australia, the terms are often used interchangeably. A settlement agent is the licensed professional responsible for managing property settlements, while “conveyancer” is a broader term commonly used by the public to describe professionals handling property transfers.

Both refer to specialists who coordinate the property settlement process.

Question 3

How long does settlement typically take in Perth?

Accepted Answer

Settlement timeframes vary depending on the contract terms and transaction type. Standard residential property settlements in Perth often range between 30 and 60 days, although shorter or longer periods may apply.
Factors such as finance approval, documentation readiness, and special contract conditions can influence settlement timing.

Question 4

Can I choose my own settlement agent when buying property?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Buyers and sellers are generally free to nominate their preferred settlement agent. While real estate agents or representatives may suggest professionals, the final decision rests with the parties involved in the transaction.
Choosing an experienced Perth settlement agent can help minimise delays and reduce settlement risks.

Question 5

What happens on settlement day?

Accepted Answer

Settlement day is when legal ownership of the property is transferred and financial adjustments are completed. Funds are exchanged, documents are lodged, and title registration is processed electronically via PEXA in most modern transactions.
Once settlement is complete and registration is confirmed, the buyer becomes the registered owner of the property.

Question 6

Are electronic settlements via PEXA mandatory in WA?

Accepted Answer

Most property settlements are now conducted electronically through PEXA, which provides a secure and efficient settlement environment. While limited exceptions may exist, electronic settlements have become the standard approach across Western Australia.
Electronic processing improves accuracy, reduces paperwork, and helps streamline the settlement process.

Question 7

What searches are required during conveyancing?

Accepted Answer

Settlement agents conduct various searches to verify property details and protect clients. These may include:

• Title searches
 • Local authority enquiries
 • Landgate checks 
• Water and council rate adjustments 
• Strata information (where applicable)

Searches help identify potential issues before settlement and ensure compliance with WA property requirements.

Question 8

How much are settlement agent fees in Perth?

Accepted Answer

Settlement costs vary depending on transaction complexity, property type, and required searches. Many Perth settlement agencies, including Hartfield Conveyancing, offer fixed-fee pricing so clients understand professional costs upfront. Government charges such as transfer duty (stamp duty), PEXA fees, and registration costs are separate from professional fees.

For a detailed breakdown of settlement agent fees in Perth, view our Conveyancing Fees page.

Question 9

What is transfer duty (stamp duty) and who pays it?

Accepted Answer

Transfer duty (commonly known as stamp duty) is a government charge payable when property ownership is transferred. In most cases, the buyer is responsible for paying transfer duty. The amount payable depends on the purchase price, property type, and eligibility for concessions such as first home buyer grants or exemptions.

Question 10

Do I need a conveyancer for a private sale?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Private or off-market transactions still require proper documentation, compliance checks, and settlement coordination. A settlement agent ensures legal transfer requirements and financial arrangements are handled correctly. Private sales particularly benefit from professional oversight to minimise risks and prevent errors.

Question 11

Who pays adjustments at settlement?

Accepted Answer

Settlement adjustments are calculated between buyer and seller based on rates, taxes, and other property-related costs such as council and water rates. The exact allocation depends on contract terms and settlement conditions. Your settlement agent prepares a final adjustment statement to ensure accuracy prior to settlement.

Question 12

What risks can delay settlement?

Accepted Answer

Common causes of settlement delays include:

• Incomplete documentation 
• Finance approval issues 
• Outstanding contract conditions 
• Unresolved compliance matters 
• Delays in lender coordination

Early preparation and proactive communication significantly reduce settlement risks.

Question 13

Is conveyancing required for related-party transfers?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Even when transferring property between family members or related parties, legal transfer procedures and documentation requirements still apply. A settlement agent ensures compliance with WA regulations, prepares required documentation, and manages transfer duty obligations where relevant.

Question 14

Do first home buyers need a settlement agent?

Accepted Answer

Yes. First home buyers benefit from professional settlement guidance to ensure contracts, deadlines, finance conditions, and compliance requirements are managed correctly.

An experienced settlement agent helps simplify the legal and administrative aspects of purchasing your first property.

Conveyancing & Settlement FAQs