In this guide(7 sections)
"How long will this take?" is the question every buyer and seller asks first. The honest answer: most of it is set by the settlement period you agree in the contract — but knowing what happens at each stage (and what can hold it up) helps you plan and avoid the delays that cost money.
At a glance — the Victorian conveyancing timeline
| Stage | Typical timing |
|---|---|
| Pre-contract review (contract + Section 32) | 1–3 business days (24 hours for auctions) |
| Sign contract | Day 0 |
| Cooling-off (private sale only) | 3 clear business days after signing |
| Finance approval (unconditional) | Usually 14–21 days |
| Searches & certificates | Ordered early, returned over 1–3 weeks |
| Settlement period (contract to settlement) | Commonly 30, 60 or 90 days |
| Final inspection | Within ~1 week before settlement |
| Settlement (via PEXA) | On the agreed settlement date |
How long does conveyancing take in Victoria?
Conveyancing in Victoria usually takes around 30 to 90 days from signing the contract to settlement, because the settlement period is set in the contract itself — 30, 60 and 90 days are the most common. The legal work (reviewing the Section 32, ordering searches, adjustments and the PEXA settlement) fits inside that window; the date you settle is essentially the date written into your contract, not a separate legal delay.
A pre-contract review only takes 1–3 business days (or 24 hours for an auction), so getting your contract checked before you sign rarely holds anything up — it just protects you.
Get your contract reviewed free before you sign → | Call 03 4328 5084
What happens at each stage?
1. Before you sign (1–3 business days). Your lawyer reviews the contract of sale and Section 32 vendor statement — covenants, easements, overlays, owners corporation issues — so you know what you're buying. For auctions this is done in 24 hours because there's no cooling-off afterwards.
2. Signing and cooling-off (day 0 + 3 business days). Once you sign a private-sale contract you have 3 clear business days to cool off (a penalty applies). At auction there is no cooling-off period.
3. Finance to unconditional (about 14–21 days). Your lender formally approves the loan. Missing this deadline is the most common cause of stress — keep your broker moving early.
4. Searches and certificates (1–3 weeks). Your lawyer orders title, rates, water and owners corporation certificates and checks them against the Section 32.
5. Pre-settlement (the final week). A final inspection confirms the property is in the same condition, settlement figures and adjustments are agreed, and the PEXA settlement is booked.
6. Settlement day. Funds and title transfer simultaneously through PEXA, the mortgage is discharged, and the agent releases the keys.
What can delay conveyancing settlement?
The most common delays are finance approval running late, a bank being slow to discharge the seller's mortgage, errors or missing documents in the Section 32, and problems found at the final inspection. Title complications — caveats, a deceased estate, or a subdivision still being registered — can also extend the timeline.
Most of these are avoidable: getting the contract reviewed before you sign, keeping finance on track, and using a lawyer who orders searches early keeps settlement on the agreed date.
Can conveyancing be done faster (or slower)?
Yes. The settlement period is negotiable in the contract — a quick settlement can be 30 days (or shorter by agreement), while buyers needing time to sell another property might negotiate 90 to 120 days. Auctions still need the review done before the auction, since there's no cooling-off. If you need a short settlement, tell us early so searches and finance can be lined up.
Frequently asked questions
How long does conveyancing take in Victoria?
Usually around 30–90 days from contract to settlement, set by the settlement period in the contract (30, 60 and 90 days are most common). The legal work fits within that window.
How long does a contract/Section 32 review take before I sign?
1–3 business days for a private sale, and 24 hours (often same-day) for an auction. We offer a free first review.
What is the cooling-off period in Victoria?
3 clear business days from signing for a private sale, with a penalty if you withdraw. There is no cooling-off period for a property bought at auction.
Can I settle in less than 30 days?
Sometimes — settlement timing is negotiable in the contract. A short settlement needs finance, searches and the discharge organised quickly, so flag it with your lawyer and lender early.
What usually delays settlement?
Late finance approval, slow mortgage discharge by a bank, Section 32 defects, title complications, or issues found at the final inspection.
Does settlement happen in person?
No. Almost all Victorian property settles electronically through PEXA, so distance is no barrier — your lawyer attends online and confirms the title transfer.
Want a smooth, on-time settlement?
Send us your contract or Section 32 — the first review is free.
📧 info@fogartyoliverandrothschild.com.au
📍 84 Chapel Street, St Kilda VIC 3182
🌐 Request your free contract review →
Written and reviewed by Elisa Rothschild BA/LLB — Principal Lawyer, Fogarty Oliver Rothschild. Admitted to legal practice in Victoria. Conveyancing and property law in Melbourne since 2012.Last reviewed 26 June 2026.
This guide is general information about Victorian conveyancing, not legal advice for your specific situation. For advice on your matter, book a free 15-minute consultation.