Published by RG Settlements — property settlement services in Victoria Park, Perth and across Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
You’re going through settlement, you’ve looked at your statement, and there’s a “PEXA fee” sitting there. Naturally you’re wondering: what is it, why am I paying it, and would the old paper way have been cheaper? Let’s clear it up.
The short answer: in WA, most property settlements are now done electronically through PEXA rather than on paper, and electronic conveyancing has been mandatory for eligible transactions since 1 December 2018. Electronic settlement carries a set PEXA transaction fee; paper settlement avoids that particular fee but brings its own costs, such as bank cheques and manual handling — so the difference isn’t as simple as one being “cheaper.”
Key takeaways
PEXA (Property Exchange Australia) is the electronic lodgement network used for e-conveyancing — the online system where your settlement agent, the other party’s representative, the banks and Landgate (the WA land registry) complete settlement and lodge documents digitally. Settlement happens online at the agreed date and time, with funds transferred electronically.
Paper settlement is the traditional method: representatives physically meet to exchange documents and bank cheques, and paper documents are lodged with Landgate afterwards. It’s how WA property changed hands for well over a century — but it’s now the exception rather than the rule.
For most transactions, yes. Electronic conveyancing has been mandatory in WA for documents capable of being lodged electronically since 1 December 2018, under the framework administered by Landgate (and enabled by the Electronic Conveyancing Act 2014).
Landgate generally won’t accept paper lodgement for these “mandated” documents unless the transaction genuinely can’t be done electronically — and even then, a specific request explaining why must be submitted. Paper is still used for some cases, such as ineligible titles, certain complex dealings, or particular duty situations.
So for a typical Perth home sale or purchase, electronic settlement through PEXA is simply how it’s done now — not really a choice you actively make.
The difference comes down to the kind of costs each method involves.
With an electronic settlement, you’ll typically see:
In return, electronic settlement removes several older costs: there are no bank cheques to draw, no one has to physically attend a settlement meeting, and funds are transferred and documents lodged automatically at settlement.
A paper settlement avoids the PEXA fee, but tends to carry other costs:
So neither method is simply “free” or “expensive” — they just have different cost structures.
Sometimes, but we won’t promise it always does — it depends on your transaction. The PEXA fee is a visible line item that paper settlements don’t have, which is why people notice it. But electronic settlement often offsets that by removing bank cheque fees and the cost of manual attendance, and by transferring funds faster on the day.
The bigger practical benefits for most buyers and sellers are speed and certainty: funds and registration happen together, electronically, at the set time. If you’d like to understand how this works for your settlement, that’s exactly what we walk clients through during e-conveyancing.
Usually not, if your transaction is eligible for electronic settlement. Because e-conveyancing is mandatory for eligible WA transactions, paper is reserved for situations that can’t be handled electronically, and it needs Landgate’s acceptance. Your settlement agent will tell you which path applies to your matter — and for the large majority of residential purchases and sales, that’s electronic.
What is a PEXA fee on my WA settlement statement? It’s a set transaction fee for using the PEXA electronic settlement platform, often shared between the buyer and seller. It covers settling and lodging your transaction online with Landgate, rather than by paper.
Is electronic settlement mandatory in WA? For eligible transactions, yes. Electronic conveyancing has been mandatory in WA since 1 December 2018 for documents capable of electronic lodgement. Paper is used only where a transaction genuinely can’t be settled electronically, with Landgate’s acceptance.
Is PEXA settlement cheaper than paper? Not automatically. Electronic settlement adds a PEXA fee but removes costs like bank cheques and manual attendance, so the net difference depends on your transaction. For most buyers and sellers the bigger benefits are speed and certainty.
Can I use PEXA myself? No. Only registered subscribers — settlement agents, lawyers and financial institutions — can transact in PEXA. That’s one reason buyers and sellers engage a licensed settlement agent to handle settlement for them.
Whether your transaction settles electronically (as most now do) or needs a paper process, we manage it end to end and explain every line on your statement in plain English. We’re a licensed settlement agency in Victoria Park, looking after buyers and sellers across Perth and WA. To learn more, see our e-conveyancing page or get in touch.
Planning a property settlement in WA? Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements and speak with our Victoria Park team about your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements — property settlement services in Victoria Park, Perth and across Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
You’re buying or selling a home in Perth, someone’s told you to “get a settlement agent,” and you’re quietly wondering: what does a settlement agent actually do — and is that the same as a solicitor? It’s a fair question, and an important one to get right.
The short answer: a settlement agent (also called a licensed conveyancer) manages the legal transfer of property ownership when you buy or sell. In WA, that means carrying out searches, preparing and checking documents, calculating financial adjustments, attending to transfer duty, liaising with your bank, and completing settlement. A solicitor can do this too — and also gives broader legal advice and handles disputes.
Key takeaways
Think of your settlement agent as the person who handles all the moving parts between signing the contract and getting the keys. For a typical Perth purchase or sale, that includes:
In short, we do the careful, behind-the-scenes work so your purchase or sale settles correctly and on time.
Yes — and this is worth knowing, because it’s part of what protects you. In Western Australia, settlement agents are licensed and overseen by Consumer Protection under the Settlement Agents Act 1981. To hold and keep a licence, an agent must:
Consumer Protection also maintains a fidelity guarantee scheme that can help reimburse clients in certain circumstances. And it’s actually an offence to call yourself a licensed settlement agent if you’re not one. The takeaway: when you use a licensed agent, you’re dealing with a regulated professional — not just anyone.
Both a licensed settlement agent and a solicitor can handle a property settlement in WA. The difference is scope.
|
Licensed settlement agent |
Solicitor |
|
|
Handles property settlement |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Specialises in conveyancing |
Usually their core focus |
One of many areas |
|
Gives broader legal advice |
No — refers you on |
Yes |
|
Acts in disputes or court |
No |
Yes |
|
Regulated under |
Settlement Agents Act 1981 (Consumer Protection) |
WA’s legal profession laws |
For most everyday residential transactions — buying or selling a home, or a straightforward transfer — a licensed settlement agent is who Western Australians typically use. It’s focused, practical work, and it’s what we do every day.
If your situation involves a legal dispute, the risk of litigation, unusual ownership structures, or complex questions about your legal rights, a solicitor is better placed to advise and, if needed, represent you. Some contested or complicated deceased estate matters can fall into this category too.
A good settlement agent knows where that line sits. If something in your matter calls for legal advice beyond the settlement itself, we’ll tell you — and make sure you get the right help, rather than press on regardless.
Here’s where we’re a little different from many settlement agencies. Our team includes Farris Faris, a senior lawyer and barrister. That means you get the focused, practical service of a licensed settlement agent, with the reassurance of serious legal experience close by if your matter ever calls for it.
We handle the settlement side from start to finish, keep you updated in plain English, and flag anything that needs a solicitor or accountant. You shouldn’t need a law degree to buy or sell your home — that’s our job, not yours.
What does a settlement agent do in WA? A settlement agent (licensed conveyancer) manages the transfer of property ownership: checking and preparing documents, carrying out searches, calculating adjustments, attending to transfer duty, liaising with your bank, and completing settlement. In WA, they’re licensed under the Settlement Agents Act 1981.
Do I need a settlement agent or a solicitor? For a standard residential purchase or sale, a licensed settlement agent is who most Western Australians use. If your matter involves a dispute, litigation or complex legal questions, a solicitor is the better fit — and a good settlement agent will tell you when that’s the case.
Are settlement agents regulated in WA? Yes. Settlement agents are licensed and overseen by Consumer Protection under the Settlement Agents Act 1981. They must hold a current licence and triennial certificate, carry professional indemnity and fidelity insurance, and complete ongoing professional development.
Can a settlement agent give me legal advice? A settlement agent handles the settlement transaction itself, not broader legal advice. If you need advice on a dispute, your legal rights in a complex situation, or court representation, that’s a solicitor’s role.
Does RG Settlements have a lawyer on the team? Yes. Alongside our settlement work, our team includes Farris Faris, a senior lawyer and barrister — a point of difference that means experienced legal know-how is close at hand when a matter calls for it.
If you’re buying or selling in Perth and want a clear, friendly explanation of how your settlement will work, we’re happy to help. We’re a licensed settlement agency in Victoria Park, looking after Western Australians through every step. Get in touch and we’ll walk you through it.
Planning a property settlement in WA? Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements and speak with our Victoria Park team about your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements — property settlement services in Victoria Park, Perth and across Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
The end of the financial year is creeping up, and if you’re buying or selling property in Perth you might be wondering whether 30 June is a date you need to worry about. Maybe your settlement is landing right around then, and you’re not sure whether the timing helps you or costs you.
The short answer: for most people, EOFY and property in WA comes down to a few specific things — chiefly land tax, which is worked out based on who owns the land at midnight on 30 June, plus some tax-timing matters worth raising with your accountant. It’s rarely a crisis, but a little awareness can save you money and stress. Here’s what actually matters.
Key takeaways
For your everyday home, usually not much. If the property is your principal place of residence (the home you live in), it’s generally exempt from WA land tax, so the 30 June date doesn’t change a great deal for owner-occupiers.
Where EOFY and property in WA start to matter is with investment properties, vacant land, deceased estates, and settlements that happen to fall right around 30 June. That’s where timing can genuinely affect your costs.
Land tax is an annual WA state tax (administered by RevenueWA) on land you own that isn’t your principal place of residence — think investment properties and vacant land. Your own home is generally exempt.
Here’s the key part: land tax is assessed on the land you own at midnight on 30 June, for the following financial year. A few things follow from that:
Because ownership is tested at midnight on 30 June, your settlement date can matter. Broadly, if your sale settles on or before 30 June, you’re no longer the owner at that midnight cut-off — which affects who carries the land tax for the next assessment year. If it settles just after, you may still be the owner at 30 June.
We’re not tax advisers, so we won’t tell you to rush or delay a settlement. But if you’re selling an investment property close to 30 June, it’s worth understanding how your settlement date interacts with land tax. We can talk you through the settlement side when we handle your property sale.
If you’re buying an investment property or vacant land, you’re stepping into the land tax system for that property going forward. At settlement, land tax — along with council rates and water rates — is usually adjusted between buyer and seller so each pays for their share of the period. That’s something we sort out as part of a residential purchase.
EOFY is a busy stretch. A few practical things help:
This is where we hand the baton to your accountant or tax agent, because these are federal tax questions rather than settlement matters. They’re still worth knowing to ask about before 30 June:
We mention these only so you know what to ask — for advice on your numbers, your accountant is the right person.
Stamp duty (transfer duty) isn’t tied to the financial year, so 30 June doesn’t create a duty deadline. It’s worth knowing, though, that WA’s duty settings for first home buyers and off-the-plan purchases have been changing through 2026, so the amount payable depends on your circumstances and timing. Our stamp duty calculator is a handy place to start for an estimate.
Do I pay land tax on my own home in WA? Generally no. Your principal place of residence is usually exempt. Land tax mainly applies to investment properties, vacant land and other non-exempt land you own at midnight on 30 June.
Does settling before 30 June save me money? It depends on your situation. For land tax, ownership is tested at midnight on 30 June, so your settlement date can affect who carries the liability — but it isn’t a blanket “settle early and save.” It’s best to check how it applies to your specific sale or purchase.
Is the CGT date my settlement date? For most property sales, the capital gains tax event is generally linked to the contract date rather than settlement. The detail matters, so confirm with your accountant.
Is a settlement agent the same as an accountant or solicitor? No. A licensed settlement agent (conveyancer) handles the property settlement itself. An accountant advises on tax, and a solicitor provides broader legal advice. For your settlement, we’re the people in your corner — and we’ll point you to the right professional for anything outside that.
If your settlement is landing near EOFY, or you just want to understand how 30 June affects your purchase or sale, we’re happy to help. We’re a Victoria Park settlement agency who guide Western Australians through this every day, in plain English. Get in touch and we’ll walk you through your situation.
Planning a property settlement in WA? Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements and speak with our Victoria Park team about your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements — property settlement services in Victoria Park, Perth and across Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
If you’re buying or selling property in Western Australia, there’s one key professional who helps everything run smoothly behind the scenes — your settlement agent. But what exactly does a settlement agent do, and why is their role so crucial to a successful property transaction?
In simple terms, a settlement agent is responsible for managing the legal and administrative aspects of transferring property from one party to another. Whether you’re a buyer or a seller, your agent ensures that the right documents are signed, funds are transferred securely, and all conditions of the contract are met before settlement day.
For buyers, this means coordinating with your lender, verifying the certificate of title, calculating rates and fees, preparing transfer documents, and ensuring everything is lodged correctly with Landgate and the Office of State Revenue. For sellers, the settlement agent helps discharge your mortgage, clears any outstanding property charges, and makes sure you receive your funds promptly.
One of the biggest advantages of working with a local Perth settlement agent like RG Settlements is our deep understanding of WA property laws and industry practices. We’re not just ticking boxes — we’re proactively managing deadlines, avoiding delays, and keeping you informed every step of the way.
A smooth settlement doesn’t happen by chance. It requires communication, attention to detail, and experience — especially when multiple parties are involved. That’s where we come in.
At RG Settlements, we act as your trusted liaison between real estate agents, banks, government departments, and the other party. You focus on preparing for your move — we’ll handle the paperwork.
Planning a property settlement in WA? Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements and speak with our Victoria Park team about your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements — property settlement services in Victoria Park, Perth and across Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
Property transactions have come a long way from stacks of paperwork and face-to-face meetings. Today, electronic conveyancing — or e-conveyancing — is streamlining the settlement process for buyers, sellers, banks, and settlement agents across Western Australia.
E-conveyancing is a fully digital way to complete property settlements. Instead of relying on printed documents and in-person lodgements, everything from signing contracts to transferring funds and lodging titles is done online. In Perth, this is commonly carried out through platforms like PEXA (Property Exchange Australia), which RG Settlements is fully equipped to use.
So, what are the real-world benefits?
For starters, speed. E-conveyancing dramatically reduces the time needed to complete a settlement. Documents are signed and lodged instantly, and funds clear faster — meaning you can get your keys sooner.
There’s also a significant boost in security. Sensitive information is encrypted and stored digitally, and the system provides real-time tracking of every step in the process. This minimises risks like settlement delays, errors, or missing paperwork.
Convenience is another game-changer. With electronic signatures and digital document sharing, clients no longer need to visit an office or print, scan, and post anything. Everything can be handled from home — or even from your phone.
Here’s why more Perth buyers and sellers are choosing e-conveyancing:
✅ Faster settlements and fewer delays
✅ Secure, real-time document exchange
✅ No paperwork or manual lodgement
✅ Convenient digital signing
✅ Full compliance with WA property laws
At RG Settlements, we embrace the latest technology to make your property journey smoother, safer, and more efficient.
Planning a property settlement in WA? Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements and speak with our Victoria Park team about your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements — property settlement services in Victoria Park, Perth and across Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
Whether you’re buying or selling property in Perth, understanding the property settlement process in Western Australia is crucial. A smooth property transaction depends on accurate paperwork, legal compliance, and clear communication between all parties involved. At RG Settlements, we specialise in simplifying this process for our clients.
In this guide, we break down the step-by-step process of property settlement in Perth, helping you feel informed and confident from start to finish.
Property settlement is the legal process of transferring ownership of real estate from the seller to the buyer. In Western Australia (WA), this is typically handled by a licensed settlement agent or conveyancer, such as the experienced team at RG Settlements.
Once both parties sign the Offer and Acceptance (O&A) contract, the terms become legally binding. This includes the purchase price, finance clauses, building inspections, and settlement date.
✅ Tip: Engage a settlement agent early to review contract terms and flag potential issues.
If your contract is subject to conditions (e.g. finance approval or building inspection), these must be met within the specified timeframe. Failing to do so can result in the contract becoming void.
Your settlement agent will conduct a title search to confirm legal ownership, ensure no encumbrances exist, and verify property boundaries.
If you’re financing the property, your conveyancer will liaise with your lender to arrange funds and ensure the mortgage is registered correctly.
All legal documents required for transfer of land and payment of stamp duty (transfer duty) are prepared. These must be signed, verified, and submitted before settlement can proceed.
Your settlement agent will calculate adjustments for council rates, water usage, and other applicable costs, ensuring both parties pay only their share.
Buyers are entitled to a final inspection of the property to ensure it’s in the agreed condition prior to settlement.
On the agreed settlement date, your agent will exchange funds and lodge the required documents with Landgate to formally transfer ownership.
✅ After successful settlement, you or your agent will be notified, and you can collect the keys to your new property.
✅ Licensed & Experienced Conveyancers
✅ Clear Communication Throughout
✅ Competitive, Transparent Fees
✅ Fast Turnaround & Compliance Focused
At RG Settlements, we understand how stressful buying or selling property can be. Our goal is to simplify the process, protect your interests, and ensure a seamless property transfer in accordance with WA laws.
Contact RG Settlements today for a free consultation with one of our experienced settlement agents in Perth. We’ll guide you through the entire process — professionally, efficiently, and with your best interest in mind.
Planning a property settlement in WA? Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements and speak with our Victoria Park team about your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements. Our Victoria Park team provides property settlement and conveyancing services for buyers, sellers and property owners across Perth and Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
Property law in Western Australia (WA) has its own unique characteristics, much like its coffee — distinct and worth understanding before entering the market. If you’re buying or selling property in Perth, you’ll notice several key differences compared to Sydney, Melbourne, or Brisbane. Let’s break them down:
WA primarily operates through private treaty sales, often using REIWA’s standard contracts for seamless transactions. In contrast, auctions dominate on the East Coast — and once the hammer falls, there’s no cooling-off period!
Cooling-off rules differ by state. In Victoria, eligible private residential and small rural sales generally have three clear business days, subject to exceptions including auction-related sales. In NSW, residential buyers generally have five business days after exchange; off-the-plan purchases generally have ten, and exceptions or waivers may apply. WA has no general statutory cooling-off period for ordinary residential property purchases, so review the contract before signing.
Cooling-off correction, 7 September 2026: The earlier statement that Victoria has five days has been corrected. See Consumer Affairs Victoria and NSW Government contract guidance.
WA relies on REIWA-standard contracts, which are balanced, consistent, and regularly updated to protect both parties. On the East Coast, contracts tend to be seller-friendly and are often drafted by solicitors, making it crucial for buyers to scrutinize the fine print.
Perth boasts strong rental yields and low vacancy rates, making it an attractive investment destination. For example:
Understanding these nuances ensures you navigate the WA property market confidently, whether you’re buying, selling, or investing. While WA may lack a Harbour Bridge, it compensates with affordable properties, high rental yields, and a thriving real estate market. ☕
At RG Settlements, our legal and conveyancing experts are here to guide you through WA’s unique property landscape.
Get in touch today for professional property law advice tailored to your needs!
Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements for your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements. Our Victoria Park team provides property settlement and conveyancing services for buyers, sellers and property owners across Perth and Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
Sub-dividing property in Western Australia is an excellent way to maximize your investment, but it requires thorough planning and adherence to regulations. At RG Settlements, we provide expert guidance to help property owners navigate the complexities of subdivision seamlessly.
Freehold and survey-strata subdivision applications are made to the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC). The proposal is referred to the local government and relevant servicing agencies for comment. Council planning requirements and clearance of conditions remain important; separate development approval may also be needed for proposed building works.
Accurate land measurement and planning are critical. A professional surveyor will:
Ensuring that all new lots have access to essential services is a key part of the process. This includes:
Understanding zoning laws, title changes, and legal obligations is crucial for a smooth subdivision process. Key areas include:
Navigating the subdivision process can be complex, but our team at RG Settlements offers:
Whether you’re looking to develop residential lots or create new investment opportunities, our experts are here to assist you every step of the way.
Contact RG Settlements today for professional guidance on property subdivision in WA.
Subdivision approval pathway corrected 7 September 2026. Source: City of Wanneroo — the subdivision process.
Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements for your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements. Our Victoria Park team provides property settlement and conveyancing services for buyers, sellers and property owners across Perth and Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
Looking for seamless property settlement solutions? At RG Settlements, we provide expert legal assistance for all types of property transactions, ensuring a smooth and efficient settlement process.
Whether you’re buying or selling a home, our team handles everything from contract reviews to final handovers. We ensure a stress-free experience in the Perth metro area and beyond, making your homeownership dreams a reality.
Struggling to understand strata title complexities? We specialize in by-laws, unit entitlements, and compliance matters, providing professional guidance to navigate the unique challenges of strata properties.
Commercial property settlements require expert legal oversight. We manage:
Maximize the potential of your land investments with our expert subdivision services. Whether you’re planning a large-scale development or a small land split, we handle all legal aspects, ensuring your project runs smoothly.
Looking for expert property settlement services? Contact RG Settlements today to ensure a seamless transaction.
Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements for your purchase, sale or property transfer.
Published by RG Settlements. Our Victoria Park team provides property settlement and conveyancing services for buyers, sellers and property owners across Perth and Western Australia.
Archive note: This article was originally published on the date shown. Rules, eligibility criteria and market conditions may have changed; confirm current requirements before acting.
Settlement delays can be frustrating for buyers and sellers alike. Understanding the legal and financial consequences of these delays is essential to navigating the process smoothly. At RG Settlements, we provide expert legal guidance to help you manage settlement issues effectively.
At RG Settlements, we specialize in resolving settlement delays and disputes, ensuring that property transactions proceed smoothly and efficiently.
Facing a settlement delay? Contact RG Settlements today for expert legal support.
Get a settlement quote from RG Settlements for your purchase, sale or property transfer.
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