Home Buyer Checklist: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Buying in Perth
From budgeting to key collection — every step of a WA property purchase, laid out clearly so nothing gets missed.
Download the Checklist Call 08 9525 0525Finance & Budget Preparation
Get these sorted before you make an offer.
Calculate your full budget
Include stamp duty, legal fees, inspections, Shire & Water rates, and moving costs — not just the purchase price.
Speak with your bank or broker
They’ll need a copy of your signed Offer and Acceptance contract before finance can proceed.
Check first home buyer grants
Research whether concessions apply — see our First Home Owner Rate guide for current thresholds.
Estimate your stamp duty
Use the WA Government’s transfer duty calculator to get a realistic figure.
The Settlement Process
What happens between signing and getting your keys.
Engage a settlement agent early
The earlier we’re involved, the smoother your settlement runs — deadlines and conditions start immediately.
Satisfy your finance condition
By the due date noted on your contract, with any building/pest inspections organised alongside it.
Sign, verify, and pay the deposit balance
Complete Verification of Identity checks, sign your documents, and ensure your deposit balance is paid on time.
Arrange insurance & utilities
Home insurance should be in place before settlement; gas, electricity and internet can be organised alongside it.
Settlement day & keys
Funds transfer and the title changes hands. If it’s the seller’s principal residence, keys are typically available from 12pm the next day.
“After finding our dream home, Byford Settlements made the final step easy. They worked in conjunction with our broker and agent, ensuring a smooth process.”
Common Questions
Straight answers to what first home buyers ask us most.
What’s the first thing I should do when buying in Perth?
Start by calculating your full budget — including stamp duty, legal fees, and inspections — then speak with your bank or broker and engage a settlement agent as early as possible.
When do I get the keys after settlement?
If the property is the seller’s principal place of residence, keys are generally available from 12pm the day after settlement, coordinated through your real estate agent.
Do I need a settlement agent if I have a mortgage broker?
Yes — your broker arranges finance, while a settlement agent handles the legal property transfer, title checks, and Landgate lodgement. The two roles work together.
How much does using a settlement agent cost?
Every purchase has different variables, so we provide a tailored quote with a clear breakdown rather than a flat-rate fee.
Ready to Start Your Purchase?
Talk to our Byford-based team today — no pressure, just clear advice.
Call 08 9525 0525 Email Us