You will need a solicitor or conveyancer to handle the legal transfer of the property title and make the necessary searches. Legal fees can vary widely. You are entitled to a quote up front, and should always ask for one. The more complex the transaction, the higher the fee. But don’t be tempted to cut corners.

If there’s something you want to investigate about the property you are buying – compliance with development approvals, a heritage listing, potential flood levels, a shared driveway, proposed road corridors or rezoning (just to name a few) – this is your chance before your cooling-off period ends.