From Settlement to Moving In: Here’s What’s Involved
Moving to a new home within Brisbane is an exciting milestone, but the journey doesn’t end
at settlement. There are a few more steps to take before you can truly call your new house a
home. From finalising paperwork to organising logistics, in this guide we’ll take you through
what to expect after settlement and how to make your local move as seamless as possible.
Step 1: Understanding Settlement Day
Settlement day is when ownership officially transfers from the seller to the buyer. Your
conveyancer will ensure all legal and financial matters are finalised, including transferring the
title and coordinating with your lender if you have a mortgage. Once settlement is complete,
you will receive the keys to your new Brisbane home.
If you’re moving from an apartment to a house or downsizing within the city, your settlement
experience may differ slightly depending on the type of property and any strata obligations.
Step 2: Finalising Utility Connections
Before moving in, it’s important to update or transfer essential services like electricity, water,
gas, and internet. If you’re staying within Brisbane, you may be able to transfer accounts
with your current providers rather than setting up new ones. Contact them in advance to
ensure a smooth transition.
Additionally, if you’re moving to a suburb with different waste collection schedules, ensure
you know when your bin day is and update any council service subscriptions.
Step 3: Property Inspection & Insurance Check
While pre-settlement inspections are done before the transfer, it’s wise to do a quick check
of your new home after settlement. Ensure everything is as agreed upon in the contract, and
reconfirm that your home insurance is updated with your new address. Brisbane’s weather
can be unpredictable, so make sure your insurance covers local risks such as storms and
flooding.
If you’re moving closer to the Brisbane River, such as West End or Bulimba, consider
checking for flood risk updates and ensuring your policy includes adequate coverage for
potential weather events.
Step 4: Organising Your Move
The next step is planning your move. Booking professional Brisbane removalists can help
make the process smooth and stress-free. If you’re moving within the city, consider flexible
moving times to avoid peak-hour traffic and take advantage of local knowledge to streamline
logistics. If you have large furniture or fragile items, professional movers can help ensure
they arrive safely at your new home.
Brisbane traffic can be unpredictable, especially around major roads like Gympie Road or
Ipswich Motorway. If possible, schedule your move outside of peak traffic times to avoid
unnecessary delays.
Step 5: Updating Your Address
Once you’ve moved in, don’t forget to update your address with key organisations, including
your bank, employer, government agencies, and subscription services. Since you’re staying
in Brisbane, also consider updating your details with local services like Brisbane City
Council, toll road accounts, and parking permits if applicable.
If you frequently use the Gateway or Clem7 tunnels, updating your Linkt toll account should
be high on your priority list to ensure you don’t miss payments.
Step 6: Settling Into Your New Home
Finally, take the time to settle in and personalise your space. Unpacking strategically, setting
up security measures, and familiarising yourself with your new neighbourhood will help you
transition smoothly. If you’ve moved to a different suburb within Brisbane, explore your new
local amenities, cafes, parks, and transport links to get comfortable in your surroundings.
If you’ve relocated from the northside to the southside, you may need to adjust to new
commuting routes, local schools, and community hubs—checking out local Facebook groups
can be a great way to settle in faster.
Need Assistance with Conveyancing?
At Sunstate Conveyancing we’re here to guide you through every step of your property
journey. From contract review to settlement and beyond, our team ensures a hassle-free
experience so you can focus on enjoying your new Brisbane home.
If you have any questions about the settlement process or need professional assistance, get
in touch with us today.
This is general advice only.
