Introduction & Disclosure Law Changes
Buying a home in Queensland is more than just paying the listed price. From 1 August 2025, Queensland’s new seller disclosure regime, introduced under the Property Law Act 2023, adds an important legal layer. Sellers must now provide a completed Form 2 Seller Disclosure Statement and certain mandatory certificates before any contract is signed. This gives buyers more upfront transparency, but it also makes understanding your full costs even more crucial.
1. Upfront Costs
Deposit
Buyers typically need to pay a deposit of 5% to 10% of the purchase price when signing the contract. This amount is held in trust by the agent or seller’s solicitor until settlement.
Stamp Duty
Stamp duty still applies and can range significantly based on the property value and whether it is an investment or a principal place of residence. First home buyers purchasing a primary place of residence under $800,000.00 will still be eligible to the relevant stamp duty concession.
Conveyancing and Legal Fees
The professional fees for conveyancing typically range between $850.00 and $2,500.00, depending on the complexity of the transaction and the firm engaged.
In addition to professional fees, purchasers are also responsible for searches and outlays (known as disbursements). With the introduction of the new Seller Disclosure Regime under the Property Law Act 2023 (Qld) (effective from 1 August 2025), we anticipate that the cost of disbursements for purchasers will reduce - as the seller is providing more searches and disclosure upfront.
Building and Pest Inspection
Though not mandatory, independent building and pest inspections are strongly recommended. These typically cost between $500 and $800 and help uncover issues not disclosed by the seller.
2. Search and Disclosure-Related Costs
Title and Property Searches
Buyers should factor in costs for council, land tax, title and flood searches. These can amount to several hundred dollars and are a critical part of due diligence.
Seller Disclosure Documents (Form 2)
Under the new disclosure laws, the seller is legally required to provide Form 2 and all supporting certificates. Though it shouldn’t be necessary, if an unknown provider, vendor or agent has prepared the Form 2, we anticipate that the buyer’s solicitor will want to verify these for inaccuracies if the Form 2 is not prepared by a Seller Disclosure expert like SearchX.
Where SearchX Helps: SearchX streamlines the collection and delivery of these disclosure documents. It ensures reports are compliant, fast and accurate. This saves time, reduces legal risks and facilitates the smooth progression of deals.
3. Finance and Loan Costs
Loan Application and Valuation Fees
Banks typically charge for processing loan applications - though the costs are built into your loan costs. A property valuation may also be required and the costs are included in your loan.
Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)
If your deposit is less than 20%, most lenders will require lender's mortgage insurance (LMI). This protects the lender, not the buyer and can run into the thousands depending on the loan amount and deposit size.
4. Ongoing and Post-Settlement Costs
Council Rates and Utility Connections
Buyers must pay a pro-rata share of council rates and cover fees for water at settlement. Post-setttlement, th Buyers will have to connect and pay for electricity, internet, and other utility connections.
Home Insurance
Most lenders require proof of building insurance before releasing funds for settlement. It is important to obtain a quote before a buyer goes unconditional so that they know what costs are going to be incurred post-settlement.
Moving and Set-Up Costs
Do not forget the practical costs: removalists, cleaning services, furniture purchases, minor renovations and any initial repairs.
5. Avoiding Unexpected Costs
Even with the new disclosure regime, buyers should not assume everything will be flagged in the seller’s documents. Always:
Conduct your own searches and inspections;
Review all seller documents carefully; and
Seek legal and professional advice.
SearchX Tip: Use SearchX to cross-check seller disclosures, identify any red flags early, and access fast, verified property reports. It is a smart step for buyers who want to avoid delays and surprises.
Conclusion
Buying a property in Queensland is a multi-step process with multiple costs beyond the sale price. From legal fees and inspections to loan charges and moving expenses, planning can save money and stress.
The new disclosure rules empower buyers with knowledge but also increase the need for careful verification. With tools like SearchX and support from experienced professionals, buyers can buy with confidence, trusting that a SearchX Seller Disclosure report is accurate and avoid costly surprises.
Introduction & Disclosure Law Changes
Buying a home in Queensland is more than just paying the listed price. From 1 August 2025, Queensland’s new seller disclosure regime, introduced under the Property Law Act 2023, adds an important legal layer. Sellers must now provide a completed Form 2 Seller Disclosure Statement and certain mandatory certificates before any contract is signed. This gives buyers more upfront transparency, but it also makes understanding your full costs even more crucial.
1. Upfront Costs
Deposit
Buyers typically need to pay a deposit of 5% to 10% of the purchase price when signing the contract. This amount is held in trust by the agent or seller’s solicitor until settlement.
Stamp Duty
Stamp duty still applies and can range significantly based on the property value and whether it is an investment or a principal place of residence. First home buyers purchasing a primary place of residence under $800,000.00 will still be eligible to the relevant stamp duty concession.
Conveyancing and Legal Fees
The professional fees for conveyancing typically range between $850.00 and $2,500.00, depending on the complexity of the transaction and the firm engaged.
In addition to professional fees, purchasers are also responsible for searches and outlays (known as disbursements). With the introduction of the new Seller Disclosure Regime under the Property Law Act 2023 (Qld) (effective from 1 August 2025), we anticipate that the cost of disbursements for purchasers will reduce - as the seller is providing more searches and disclosure upfront.
Building and Pest Inspection
Though not mandatory, independent building and pest inspections are strongly recommended. These typically cost between $500 and $800 and help uncover issues not disclosed by the seller.
2. Search and Disclosure-Related Costs
Title and Property Searches
Buyers should factor in costs for council, land tax, title and flood searches. These can amount to several hundred dollars and are a critical part of due diligence.
Seller Disclosure Documents (Form 2)
Under the new disclosure laws, the seller is legally required to provide Form 2 and all supporting certificates. Though it shouldn’t be necessary, if an unknown provider, vendor or agent has prepared the Form 2, we anticipate that the buyer’s solicitor will want to verify these for inaccuracies if the Form 2 is not prepared by a Seller Disclosure expert like SearchX.
Where SearchX Helps: SearchX streamlines the collection and delivery of these disclosure documents. It ensures reports are compliant, fast and accurate. This saves time, reduces legal risks and facilitates the smooth progression of deals.
3. Finance and Loan Costs
Loan Application and Valuation Fees
Banks typically charge for processing loan applications - though the costs are built into your loan costs. A property valuation may also be required and the costs are included in your loan.
Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)
If your deposit is less than 20%, most lenders will require lender's mortgage insurance (LMI). This protects the lender, not the buyer and can run into the thousands depending on the loan amount and deposit size.
4. Ongoing and Post-Settlement Costs
Council Rates and Utility Connections
Buyers must pay a pro-rata share of council rates and cover fees for water at settlement. Post-setttlement, th Buyers will have to connect and pay for electricity, internet, and other utility connections.
Home Insurance
Most lenders require proof of building insurance before releasing funds for settlement. It is important to obtain a quote before a buyer goes unconditional so that they know what costs are going to be incurred post-settlement.
Moving and Set-Up Costs
Do not forget the practical costs: removalists, cleaning services, furniture purchases, minor renovations and any initial repairs.
5. Avoiding Unexpected Costs
Even with the new disclosure regime, buyers should not assume everything will be flagged in the seller’s documents. Always:
Conduct your own searches and inspections;
Review all seller documents carefully; and
Seek legal and professional advice.
SearchX Tip: Use SearchX to cross-check seller disclosures, identify any red flags early, and access fast, verified property reports. It is a smart step for buyers who want to avoid delays and surprises.
Conclusion
Buying a property in Queensland is a multi-step process with multiple costs beyond the sale price. From legal fees and inspections to loan charges and moving expenses, planning can save money and stress.
The new disclosure rules empower buyers with knowledge but also increase the need for careful verification. With tools like SearchX and support from experienced professionals, buyers can buy with confidence, trusting that a SearchX Seller Disclosure report is accurate and avoid costly surprises.
Introduction & Disclosure Law Changes
Buying a home in Queensland is more than just paying the listed price. From 1 August 2025, Queensland’s new seller disclosure regime, introduced under the Property Law Act 2023, adds an important legal layer. Sellers must now provide a completed Form 2 Seller Disclosure Statement and certain mandatory certificates before any contract is signed. This gives buyers more upfront transparency, but it also makes understanding your full costs even more crucial.
1. Upfront Costs
Deposit
Buyers typically need to pay a deposit of 5% to 10% of the purchase price when signing the contract. This amount is held in trust by the agent or seller’s solicitor until settlement.
Stamp Duty
Stamp duty still applies and can range significantly based on the property value and whether it is an investment or a principal place of residence. First home buyers purchasing a primary place of residence under $800,000.00 will still be eligible to the relevant stamp duty concession.
Conveyancing and Legal Fees
The professional fees for conveyancing typically range between $850.00 and $2,500.00, depending on the complexity of the transaction and the firm engaged.
In addition to professional fees, purchasers are also responsible for searches and outlays (known as disbursements). With the introduction of the new Seller Disclosure Regime under the Property Law Act 2023 (Qld) (effective from 1 August 2025), we anticipate that the cost of disbursements for purchasers will reduce - as the seller is providing more searches and disclosure upfront.
Building and Pest Inspection
Though not mandatory, independent building and pest inspections are strongly recommended. These typically cost between $500 and $800 and help uncover issues not disclosed by the seller.
2. Search and Disclosure-Related Costs
Title and Property Searches
Buyers should factor in costs for council, land tax, title and flood searches. These can amount to several hundred dollars and are a critical part of due diligence.
Seller Disclosure Documents (Form 2)
Under the new disclosure laws, the seller is legally required to provide Form 2 and all supporting certificates. Though it shouldn’t be necessary, if an unknown provider, vendor or agent has prepared the Form 2, we anticipate that the buyer’s solicitor will want to verify these for inaccuracies if the Form 2 is not prepared by a Seller Disclosure expert like SearchX.
Where SearchX Helps: SearchX streamlines the collection and delivery of these disclosure documents. It ensures reports are compliant, fast and accurate. This saves time, reduces legal risks and facilitates the smooth progression of deals.
3. Finance and Loan Costs
Loan Application and Valuation Fees
Banks typically charge for processing loan applications - though the costs are built into your loan costs. A property valuation may also be required and the costs are included in your loan.
Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)
If your deposit is less than 20%, most lenders will require lender's mortgage insurance (LMI). This protects the lender, not the buyer and can run into the thousands depending on the loan amount and deposit size.
4. Ongoing and Post-Settlement Costs
Council Rates and Utility Connections
Buyers must pay a pro-rata share of council rates and cover fees for water at settlement. Post-setttlement, th Buyers will have to connect and pay for electricity, internet, and other utility connections.
Home Insurance
Most lenders require proof of building insurance before releasing funds for settlement. It is important to obtain a quote before a buyer goes unconditional so that they know what costs are going to be incurred post-settlement.
Moving and Set-Up Costs
Do not forget the practical costs: removalists, cleaning services, furniture purchases, minor renovations and any initial repairs.
5. Avoiding Unexpected Costs
Even with the new disclosure regime, buyers should not assume everything will be flagged in the seller’s documents. Always:
Conduct your own searches and inspections;
Review all seller documents carefully; and
Seek legal and professional advice.
SearchX Tip: Use SearchX to cross-check seller disclosures, identify any red flags early, and access fast, verified property reports. It is a smart step for buyers who want to avoid delays and surprises.
Conclusion
Buying a property in Queensland is a multi-step process with multiple costs beyond the sale price. From legal fees and inspections to loan charges and moving expenses, planning can save money and stress.
The new disclosure rules empower buyers with knowledge but also increase the need for careful verification. With tools like SearchX and support from experienced professionals, buyers can buy with confidence, trusting that a SearchX Seller Disclosure report is accurate and avoid costly surprises.
Introduction & Disclosure Law Changes
Buying a home in Queensland is more than just paying the listed price. From 1 August 2025, Queensland’s new seller disclosure regime, introduced under the Property Law Act 2023, adds an important legal layer. Sellers must now provide a completed Form 2 Seller Disclosure Statement and certain mandatory certificates before any contract is signed. This gives buyers more upfront transparency, but it also makes understanding your full costs even more crucial.
1. Upfront Costs
Deposit
Buyers typically need to pay a deposit of 5% to 10% of the purchase price when signing the contract. This amount is held in trust by the agent or seller’s solicitor until settlement.
Stamp Duty
Stamp duty still applies and can range significantly based on the property value and whether it is an investment or a principal place of residence. First home buyers purchasing a primary place of residence under $800,000.00 will still be eligible to the relevant stamp duty concession.
Conveyancing and Legal Fees
The professional fees for conveyancing typically range between $850.00 and $2,500.00, depending on the complexity of the transaction and the firm engaged.
In addition to professional fees, purchasers are also responsible for searches and outlays (known as disbursements). With the introduction of the new Seller Disclosure Regime under the Property Law Act 2023 (Qld) (effective from 1 August 2025), we anticipate that the cost of disbursements for purchasers will reduce - as the seller is providing more searches and disclosure upfront.
Building and Pest Inspection
Though not mandatory, independent building and pest inspections are strongly recommended. These typically cost between $500 and $800 and help uncover issues not disclosed by the seller.
2. Search and Disclosure-Related Costs
Title and Property Searches
Buyers should factor in costs for council, land tax, title and flood searches. These can amount to several hundred dollars and are a critical part of due diligence.
Seller Disclosure Documents (Form 2)
Under the new disclosure laws, the seller is legally required to provide Form 2 and all supporting certificates. Though it shouldn’t be necessary, if an unknown provider, vendor or agent has prepared the Form 2, we anticipate that the buyer’s solicitor will want to verify these for inaccuracies if the Form 2 is not prepared by a Seller Disclosure expert like SearchX.
Where SearchX Helps: SearchX streamlines the collection and delivery of these disclosure documents. It ensures reports are compliant, fast and accurate. This saves time, reduces legal risks and facilitates the smooth progression of deals.
3. Finance and Loan Costs
Loan Application and Valuation Fees
Banks typically charge for processing loan applications - though the costs are built into your loan costs. A property valuation may also be required and the costs are included in your loan.
Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI)
If your deposit is less than 20%, most lenders will require lender's mortgage insurance (LMI). This protects the lender, not the buyer and can run into the thousands depending on the loan amount and deposit size.
4. Ongoing and Post-Settlement Costs
Council Rates and Utility Connections
Buyers must pay a pro-rata share of council rates and cover fees for water at settlement. Post-setttlement, th Buyers will have to connect and pay for electricity, internet, and other utility connections.
Home Insurance
Most lenders require proof of building insurance before releasing funds for settlement. It is important to obtain a quote before a buyer goes unconditional so that they know what costs are going to be incurred post-settlement.
Moving and Set-Up Costs
Do not forget the practical costs: removalists, cleaning services, furniture purchases, minor renovations and any initial repairs.
5. Avoiding Unexpected Costs
Even with the new disclosure regime, buyers should not assume everything will be flagged in the seller’s documents. Always:
Conduct your own searches and inspections;
Review all seller documents carefully; and
Seek legal and professional advice.
SearchX Tip: Use SearchX to cross-check seller disclosures, identify any red flags early, and access fast, verified property reports. It is a smart step for buyers who want to avoid delays and surprises.
Conclusion
Buying a property in Queensland is a multi-step process with multiple costs beyond the sale price. From legal fees and inspections to loan charges and moving expenses, planning can save money and stress.
The new disclosure rules empower buyers with knowledge but also increase the need for careful verification. With tools like SearchX and support from experienced professionals, buyers can buy with confidence, trusting that a SearchX Seller Disclosure report is accurate and avoid costly surprises.