Contracts are exchanged, the deposit collected and you now have about 30-45 days before settlement when you receive final payment then hand over the keys to the new owner. So it’s time to get organised.

Getting ready to vacate
Ensure you:

• Clean the property.
• Remove all furniture and rubbish from the property that was not part of the sale.
• Leave all the fixtures and fittings that were part of the sale e.g. TV antenna, alarm system etc.
• Gather any warranty particulars on your electrical and household devices to pass on to the buyer.
• Inform your mortgage company that you will be paying off the balance of your loan.
• Disconnect phone, electricity, gas internet and payTV.
• Settle any outstanding bills.
• Cancel your house and contents insurance from the date of settlement, and take out a new policy for your new property.
• Consider a garage sale for any surplus items.
• Inform everyone you’re moving.
• Book your removalist.
• Conduct a final check in all the cupboards before you leave.
• Turn off power at the switchboard and secure doors and windows.
• Take five minutes to stroll around the property for one final check.

Final property inspection
One day prior to settlement, the buyer will visit the property for a final property inspection to make sure it is clean and the property is in order.

Tip: A nice gesture for the new owner is leaving behind a note saying “Congratulations and welcome to your new home”, or a gift of flowers or wine.

CONTINUE TO STEP 10