Short answer
In NSW, most of a property purchase can now be done without visiting an office.
The contract can be signed electronically and exchanged by email. Settlement is electronic, so no one attends. Your identity still has to be checked properly.
We act for buyers remotely across NSW.
Current as at 2 November 2026Can I sign a contract for sale electronically?
Yes. Since amendments to the Conveyancing Act in 2018, contracts for the sale of land in NSW can be signed and exchanged electronically.
The standard contract has provisions for electronic signing and exchange.
Settlement is electronic
Since 11 October 2021, almost all NSW land title dealings must be lodged electronically.
The standard contract treats the purchase as an electronic transaction unless the contract says otherwise.
You do not attend settlement. We tell you when it is done. Read PEXA settlement in NSW.
How your identity is checked
Before we can sign and lodge documents for you, we must take reasonable steps to verify your identity.
- The most certain method is a face to face meeting with your original identity documents.
- Video calls do not meet the formal standard. They can form part of the reasonable steps, but the lawyer carries the risk and must justify the method.
- If we verified your identity in the last 2 years, it may not need to be done again.
We tell you what we need at the start, so the check does not delay settlement.
How we act for you remotely
- Send us the contract online, before you sign.
- We send our costs disclosure and costs agreement.
- We call you to go through the contract and tell you what to change.
- You sign the contract electronically.
- We complete the identity check.
- We run the searches, the stamp duty and the settlement figures.
- Settlement happens electronically, and the agent releases the keys.
We are open 9am to 7pm, seven days.
Start with your stamp duty
Enter the price to see your stamp duty and government fees on the 2026-27 rates.
What still needs care
Payment scams
Fraudsters send fake emails with new bank details. Always confirm by phone before you send money.
Signing before advice
Electronic signing is quick. Send the contract before you sign.
Late identity documents
Have your identity checked early.
The final inspection
Inspect the property yourself, or have someone you trust do it, before settlement.
Common questions
Can I do conveyancing online in NSW?
Yes. The contract can be signed electronically, settlement is electronic, and your solicitor can act for you remotely. Your identity must still be verified.
Can a contract for sale of land be signed electronically in NSW?
Yes. NSW law has allowed electronic signing and exchange of land contracts since 2018, and the standard contract has provisions for it.
Do I need to attend settlement?
No. Settlement is electronic and we tell you when it is complete.
Can my identity be verified by video call?
A video call does not meet the formal face to face standard. It can form part of the reasonable steps, but the lawyer carries the risk and must justify the method.
Buying anywhere in NSW? Send us the contract online before you sign.
Fred Kalouche, Principal Solicitor, Fred Kalouche & Associates
A solicitor for over 16 years. Acts for buyers across NSW. 6 Russell Street, Granville NSW 2142.
This article is general information only. It is not legal advice for your situation.