Buying guide

What happens on settlement day?

What to expect.

Hannah Hilliam
Last updated: 28 May 2026 | 2 min read
AI

AI summary

Settlement day is the final step in the home buying process. On this day, your lawyer pays the balance of the purchase price, the property title is officially transferred into your name, and you collect the keys.

Beforehand, it's crucial to complete a pre-settlement inspection to ensure the property's condition is as agreed. While you can move in immediately, it's often wise to plan your move for the following day to avoid stress from potential bank or legal delays.

Your settlement day checklist

1. The balance is paid.

2. The key handover

3. The document handover

Your lawyer will have an important role to play on settlement day.

Is settlement date the day you move in?

What could go wrong on settlement day?

Author

Hannah Hilliam Hannah Hilliam
Content Writer