The contract will state the settlement date. Just before settlement it’s common for the buyer to arrange with the real estate agent  to conduct a final walk-through inspection. This final inspection confirms that all the inclusions that were agreed upon in the contract: dishwasher, satellite dish etc are in place and have not been removed or substituted and that the property has been left in reasonable order and not neglected.

The final step is for the solicitors / conveyancers to complete the settlement. They’ll ensure that the appropriate paperwork is completed, the title deeds are handed to the new buyer (or their mortgagee) and the funds are transferred to the relevant parties. The solicitors/conveyancers notify the agent when this has been completed and the agent will then make arrangements with the vendor to hand over the keys to the purchaser - who becomes the proud new owner!