You’ve decided to sell your house in Victoria—exciting! But before the open homes, offers, and that final handshake, one thing can make or break your sale: paperwork. The truth is, selling a property isn’t just about location and price—it’s also about proving that your home is ready, compliant, and good to go.
Think of documents as your “passport to sell.” Without the right ones, the journey can be full of delays, buyer doubts, or even cancelled contracts. With them, you’ll confidently move through the process and keep buyers on your side.
In this guide, we’ll unpack the documents to sell a house in Victoria, so you know exactly what’s needed for a smooth, stress-free sale.
Why Documentation Matters When Selling a Home
A good deal depends on paperwork, which may not be the most thrilling aspect of selling. Buyers seek guarantees that the property is compliant and free of any unpleasant surprises. However, everything in order helps sellers avoid future conflicts and settlement delays.
Early property sale documentation preparation in Victoria will:
- Increase sales speed
- Show buyers your sincerity and transparency
- Reduce deal failure risk
- Reduce stress near settlement.
Your Essential Selling a House Paperwork Checklist
Here’s a breakdown of the key conveyancing documents for sellers you’ll need before listing your property:
1. Section 32 Vendor Statement Victoria
Also known as the Vendor’s Statement, Section 32 is one of the most important documents in Victorian property sales. It must be given to any potential buyer before they sign the Contract of Sale in Victoria.
It discloses crucial information about the property, including:
- Title details and property boundaries
- Mortgages, caveats, or easements
- Zoning and planning restrictions
- Rates, taxes, and other charges
- Services connected to the property (water, electricity, gas, etc.)
- Building approvals and compliance certificates
If the Section 32 Vendor Statement Victoria is missing or incorrect, buyers may be able to cancel the contract after signing.
2. Contract of Sale in Victoria
This document is the formal agreement between the buyer and seller. It outlines the terms and conditions of the property transfer, including:
- Purchase price and deposit
- Settlement date
- Inclusions (fixtures, fittings, appliances, etc.)
- Special conditions agreed upon by both parties
The Contract of Sale in Victoria should be properly drafted and customised for your property. Errors could cause problems later on or slow down the sale.
3. Certificate of Title and Property Certificates
The Certificate of Title proves Victorian property ownership. Details include:
- Name of owner
- Lot and plan numbers
- Mortgages or property restrictions
In addition, sellers must provide property certificates in Victoria, which often include:
- Council rates and planning certificates
- Water and drainage statements
- Land tax certificate
- Owners’ corporation (body corporate) details, if applicable
These certificates ensure buyers understand the property’s financial obligations or restrictions.
4. Building Permits and Compliance Certificates
If you’ve renovated, extended, or made major changes to your property, you must show evidence that the work meets Australian building standards. Common documents to sell a house in Victoria include:
- Building permits
- Certificates of occupancy
- Final inspection reports
- Compliance certificates from licensed trades (plumbing, electrical, etc.)
Providing these documents upfront avoids buyer concerns about unsafe works.
5. Owners Corporation Documents (if applicable)
Apartments, townhouses, and subdivision units require owners’ corporation certificates. These documents describe:
- Body corporate costs
- Insurance plans
- Ongoing maintenance or disputes
- Special taxes may apply
Buyers rely on this information to understand their future obligations as part of the community.
6. Mortgage and Financial Statements
If you still have a mortgage, your lender will issue a discharge of the mortgage statement so the loan can be paid out at settlement. Other financial documents that may be required include:
- Land tax certificate
- Council and water rate statements
- Body corporate fee statements
These documents ensure that all outstanding charges are accounted for and fairly split between buyer and seller at settlement.
7. Tax and Compliance Documents
Additional paperwork may be required, such as:
- ATO clearance certificate showing exempt from foreign tax residency.
- Investment property capital gains tax records
- Commercial property GST information
Although not necessary for every seller, these are sometimes necessary.
How to Stay Organised with Property Sale Documentation
Handling all this paperwork can feel like a full-time job. Here are a some practical tips to stay on track:
- Start early: Order property certificates and prepare Section 32 well before listing. Some documents can take weeks to arrive.
- Double-check details: Small errors in ownership names, lot numbers, or mortgage information can cause major delays.
- Work with professionals: A conveyancer can prepare and review documents to ensure they’re accurate and compliant.
- Keep copies handy: Always keep both digital and printed versions of your documents for quick reference.
Need Expert Help with Your Documents?
Selling your house is one of life’s biggest financial moves, and paperwork shouldn’t hold you back. Professional guidance from an expert conveyancer in Melbourne can make the process much easier if you’re unsure about preparing a Section 32 Vendor Statement Victoria or pulling together your selling a house paperwork checklist.
Consult with Eagle Peak Conveyancing today and let us simplify the entire documentation process so you can confidently focus on selling.
Final Thoughts
Finally, when it comes to selling a home in Victoria, documents are just as important as the property itself. Each form ensures a smooth, stress-free transaction from the Contract of Sale in Victoria to building permits and financial statements.
Being organised with your property sale documentation requirements in Victoria helps you meet regulatory obligations and builds trust with buyers. And with the right support, you can navigate the process with confidence and peace of mind.
FAQs
What happens if I don't provide a Section 32 Vendor Statement?
A buyer may be able to back out of the deal if they sign a contract without first acquiring a Section 32. It’s one of the most crucial documents for selling a house in Victoria.
Do I need to update my Certificate of Title before selling?
Yes, your Certificate of Title should be current. It must be corrected before settlement if it shows outdated details, such as an old name or mortgage.
Who organises the property certificates for the sale?
Usually, your conveyancer organises property certificates (rates, water, land tax, etc.) from the relevant authorities. They ensure all details are accurate and ready for Section 32.
