Costs shared across both states
Common costs include the deposit, conveyancing or legal work, building and pest inspections, registration, loan fees, insurance and possible lenders mortgage insurance. The valuation may also affect how much cash is required.
NSW rules and official checks
Transfer-duty concessions and first-home-buyer pathways are administered under NSW rules. Check Revenue NSW and the Australian Government Home Guarantee Scheme for current eligibility, price caps and application requirements before relying on a concession.
Victoria rules and official checks
Victorian transfer-duty concessions and grants are administered by the State Revenue Office Victoria. Thresholds, occupancy rules and property requirements can change, so confirm the current position before signing a contract.
Key points
- Buying costs sit outside the deposit
- Rules differ between NSW and Victoria
- Eligibility must be checked before relying on a concession
- Keep a settlement and post-purchase cash buffer
Frequently asked questions
Does this guide calculate stamp duty?
No. Use the current official calculator from Revenue NSW or the State Revenue Office Victoria for the property and buyer circumstances.
Can a government scheme guarantee approval?
No. The lender still assesses income, expenses, credit history, property and all scheme requirements.