Selling Your Home? Here’s Why a Good Settlement Agent Matters
Once you’ve accepted an offer on your home, the next critical step in the process is settlement — and that’s where your settlement agent comes in.
If you’ve never sold a property before (or haven’t in a while), you might be wondering:
“Why do I need a settlement agent?”
Here’s a clear breakdown of what they do, why they matter, and how to choose the right one.
What Does a Settlement Agent Do?
A settlement agent — also known as a conveyancer — handles the legal and administrative side of transferring ownership of your property to the buyer.
In WA, their job includes:
✅ Preparing and lodging legal documents
✅ Managing the title search and checking for encumbrances
✅ Coordinating with banks, brokers, and the buyer’s settlement agent
✅ Calculating rates, taxes, and adjustments
✅ Ensuring the contract conditions are met
✅ Organising the transfer of funds at settlement
✅ Making sure ownership is legally transferred to the buyer
In short: they keep the sale legally compliant, financially accurate, and running on time.
Can’t My Real Estate Agent Handle This?
Your agent (that’s us) is here to negotiate the best price, manage the marketing, and guide you through the sale — but we’re not legally allowed to handle the settlement itself.
A settlement agent is an independent, licensed professional who specialises in the legal side. We’ll work closely with them throughout the process, but you need both parties working together to get from offer to “sold.”
What Happens If You Don’t Choose the Right One?
Delays, miscommunication, and legal errors can hold up your sale — or cost you money. Can you do it yourself? Legally yes, but I would strongly recommend against it.
That’s why it’s worth working with someone experienced, responsive, and based in WA. If they don’t understand the local process or aren’t proactive, it can create major headaches for both you and the buyer.
How to Choose a Good Settlement Agent
- ✅ WA-based and experienced in residential settlements
- ✅ Responsive and communicates clearly
- ✅ Transparent with fees and services
- ✅ Recommended by agents you trust (we work with a few excellent ones)
Want a Trusted Recommendation?
We work with several excellent settlement agents across Perth and are happy to point you in the right direction.
📞 Call Rob Walker
📩 Email Rob Walker
🔍 [Click here to instantly find the value of your home]