5 tips that can take the stress out of settlement day

You’ve picked out your dream home, your offer’s been given the thumbs up, and now there’s just one big step left – settlement day.

Settlement day is a mix of fun and formalities. As mortgage brokers, we’re here to make sure it all ticks along without a hitch. Read on for a lowdown on what settlement day involves and some handy hints to make sure it all goes off smoothly.


What’s settlement day all about?

Settlement day is the final step in your home-buying journey – it’s when the property is legally yours and you get those new keys. Your conveyancer and mortgage broker will sort out the complex stuff, ensuring you’re clear on every detail, from insurance to lender requirements. The actual settlement date is indicated in your contract.


What happens on settlement day?

On settlement day, it’s important that you’ve:

  • Conducted a final inspection of the property;
  • Arranged building insurance immediately after the contract is signed by the seller; and
  • Worked with your conveyancer to ensure all documents needed for the title transfer are ready.


On this big day, your home loan provider and conveyancer will meet with the seller’s representatives to:

  • Finalise the payment of the purchase price, including any applicable government fees and duties.
  • Complete and file all legal paperwork with the relevant authorities.
  • Officially transfer the title to your name, confirming your ownership of the property.

Once all documents are in order and the process is complete, the settlement is final. Congratulations! The home is officially yours, and you can collect the keys.


Getting ready for settlement day

1. Meet with your mortgage broker early

It’s smart to get advice from those in the know. Talk to us before you even start house hunting. We can help set up your home loan pre-approval and support you all the way through – from finding the right place to handling the paperwork, right up to the big day and after. Reach out to us if you need help with your conveyancer search. 


2. Choose a good conveyancer

A conveyancer knows all about property law and will guide you through your rights and what you need to do during the settlement. They handle all the legal bits and pieces and make sure the property title moves from the seller to you without a hitch.


3. Set a settlement date that fits your schedule

You may be able to choose a settlement date that works better for you, especially if you’re trying to coordinate moving out of your old place. You’ll usually have between 30 to 90 days after signing the contract to get everything in order. Loans, paperwork – there’s a bit to do, so let’s talk about what timeline works for your situation.


4. Stay sharp about the paperwork

We’ll take care of the loan application and make sure your pre-approval is on track. But you’ll need to fill out and return all your paperwork promptly to avoid any hiccups. It’s important to get it right. So, don’t hesitate to seek advice from legal experts.


5. Enjoy the journey

It’s normal to feel a bit nervous as settlement day gets close but try to enjoy it. With a good team behind you, we’re aiming for a smooth experience.


Get in touch early, and let’s make this happen together.


Source: Finance Focus

Can gambling impact your home loan application?

July 10, 2025
If you’re looking to buy a property, it’s important to remember that your gambling habits could be taken into account when you apply for a home loan. Your lender will look at any track record of gambling when assessing your financial situation and ability to repay the mortgage. Not only could gambling jeopardise your chances of being approved for a loan, but it could also impact your ability to refinance down the track. Understanding the process When you apply for a home loan, your lender will do an affordability assessment. As part of this, they’ll assess your income (from all sources) against your outgoings (your regular expenses). They’ll also likely check your credit score. If a lender sees evidence of regular gambling transactions as part of your expenses, it may be a red flag. They’ll look at how much money you’re gambling, how frequently you’re betting and what type of gambling you’re participating in. If it’s a small amount you’re gambling relatively infrequently for leisure, it probably won’t raise any alarm bells with the lender. The occasional Powerball ticket, for example, will be considered harmless. However, if it’s an ongoing habit that’s getting out of control, it could limit your ability to secure finance. How to turn things around There are steps you can take to try to maximise your chances of getting approved for a home loan if you do have a history of gambling. Domino your debts: Paying off your debts – whether it be credit card debt, car loan or personal loans – is a good place to start, as it shows you are able to manage your finances effectively. Budget and save: A strong track record of saving will go down well with lenders. Keep putting money aside regularly and grow your savings nest egg. Boost your credit score: You can access your credit score and credit report for free every few months. If you notice any errors in the report, contact the credit provider. The government’s moneysmart website offers tips on how to improve your credit score, such as lowering your credit card limit, paying your utility bills on time and keeping on top of credit card repayments. Stop gambling: If you think your gambling may jeopardise your home loan application, try to reduce or quit gambling. Seeking help There are many resources available to help you tackle a gambling addiction. GambleAware offers tools and support for those who are looking to stop gambling. The site includes a gambling assessment to see how the habit may be impacting your life, as well as research and links to gambling support groups. You can also get immediate support from Gambling Help Online on 1800 858 858. It’s free and confidential. Other options can be found on the Health Direct website . Like to talk through your finance options? If you’d like to know more about how your gambling habit may affect your home loan application, we’re here to answer your questions. Talk to us confidentially about your financial situation and we’ll help you work towards getting the finance you need.

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