- Clean documents and a fair price sell property faster than anything else.
- Verify every buyer and accept payment only through traceable channels.
- Use a lawyer for the sale agreement and the transfer of title.
The Short Answer
Properties with clean documents, a fair price and a prepared seller sell faster and with fewer disputes. Do the paperwork before you advertise, use your own lawyer and accept payment only through channels you can trace. This guide is general information, not legal advice, and steps differ by state.
Step 1: Get Your Documents in Order
Gather your title documents, survey plan, receipts, previous agreements and any approvals. Check that the names match your identification. If anything is missing, ask your lawyer how to fix it before you list the property, because buyers and their lawyers will check. Our guide on verifying land documents shows what buyers look for.
Step 2: Price It Fairly
Look at recent sale prices of similar properties nearby, not only asking prices. Consider size, condition, access, power, water and security. A price far above the market scares serious buyers, while a very low price can cost you money. You can ask a licensed valuer for an opinion on larger deals.
Step 3: Prepare and Present
Clean, repair and photograph the property in good light. For land, clear the boundary and mark it, so buyers can find it. Write a short, honest description with the location, size, document type and price.
Step 4: Choose Your Agent Carefully
If you use an agent, check their reputation and agree the commission and duties in writing. Read our guide to estate agent fees and commissions before you sign.
Step 5: Vet the Buyer and Get Paid Safely
Ask for identification and confirm that the buyer is who they say. Accept payment by bank transfer into an account in your name, and confirm that the money has cleared before you release any documents or keys. Be careful with offers to overpay and refund the difference, with fake payment alerts and with people who rush you.
Step 6: Sign and Transfer Properly
Have your lawyer prepare the sale agreement and the deed. Both parties should sign with witnesses, and the buyer should register the transfer where required. Keep copies of everything, including receipts and proof of payment. Check any tax or fee you may owe with a qualified professional.
Action Checklist
- Gather title documents, survey plan and receipts
- Fix missing or mismatched documents with your lawyer
- Research recent sale prices nearby
- Clean, repair and photograph the property
- Agree agent fees and duties in writing
- Verify the buyer and confirm payment has cleared
- Have your lawyer prepare and register the transfer
