Imagine celebrating Christmas around the barbecue in your own backyard or welcoming the new year with friends by the pool. If you’re dreaming of creating holiday memories in a new home, the countdown is on. With the end of the year fast approaching, you’ll need a clear plan to make sure you can settle and move in before the festive season rush.
Here’s a week-by-week timeline to help you hit those deadlines.
Step 1: Get Finance Ready (Week 1)
The first step is to make sure your finance is in order.
- Book in with your broker to check your borrowing power.
- Gather documents like pay slips, tax returns, and bank statements.
- Secure pre-approval so you can make confident, fast offers when you find the right property.
Step 2: Hunt with Purpose (Weeks 2-4)
Spring and early summer are busy in the property market, so focus your search.
- Shortlist suburbs and property types that fit your lifestyle.
- Attend inspections quickly and be prepared to make strong offers.
- Stay realistic—time is limited, so don’t get bogged down in endless “maybes.”
Step 3: Contracts and Checks (Week 4)
Once you’ve found “the one,” things move quickly.
- Have a solicitor or conveyancer lined up to review contracts straight away.
- Organise building and pest inspections promptly.
- Exchange contracts and pay your deposit once everything checks out.
Step 4: Finalise Settlement (Weeks 4–10)
This is where your broker and solicitor do the heavy lifting.
- Get formal loan approval and prepare for settlement.
- Set up home insurance from the date of exchange.
- Book settlement—most run 4–6 weeks from exchange.
Step 5: Plan the Move (Weeks 10–12)
Don’t leave the logistics until the last minute.
- Book removalists early, as the holiday season fills up quickly.
- Redirect utilities and mail a couple of weeks before settlement.
- Do your final inspection to make sure the property is as agreed.
Key Dates to Remember
- Mid-October: Finance pre-approval in place.
- Early November: Offer accepted and contracts exchanged.
- Mid-December: Settlement complete—ready to move in before the holidays.
Final Word
The timeline is tight, but if you start now and stay organised, you can be celebrating in your new home before the year is out. Picture it: Christmas by the barbecue, New Year’s Eve poolside, and a fresh start for 2026 in a place that’s all your own.