TONYLAWSON
    Property Journal
    A South Australian property contract being signed
    Buyer guide
    7 minute read
    Property journal

    Stamp duty and buying in South Australia

    How transfer duty is calculated, the costs around it and the concessions worth checking before you buy.

    01
    Based on price or value
    02
    Usually due at settlement
    03
    Concessions may apply

    What stamp duty is

    Transfer duty, commonly called stamp duty, is a South Australian state tax charged when property changes hands. It is generally calculated on the purchase price or market value, whichever is higher.

    Because the amount can be substantial, it belongs in the buying budget before an offer is made, alongside conveyancing, inspections, finance costs and moving expenses.

    Keys handed over after a property purchase
    Budget for the whole transaction, not only the deposit.
    A clear sequence

    Before you make an offer

    01

    Calculate the duty

    Use the current RevenueSA calculator and confirm the result with your conveyancer.

    02

    Check concessions

    Eligibility and property requirements change. Check the rules that apply on the date of your transaction.

    03

    Allow for the extras

    Include inspections, conveyancing, lender fees, insurance and moving costs.

    Timing and settlement

    Your conveyancer will usually arrange payment as part of settlement. If funds are tight or another property must settle first, raise that early with your lender and conveyancer rather than relying on an estimate.

    Talk it through

    Advice for your property, not a generic market.

    Contact Tony Lawson to apply the evidence to your plans.