As we move into the second half of 2025, it’s a perfect time to reflect on how the property market—and the conveyancing landscape—have evolved across South Australia. For real estate professionals, staying across these legal and procedural trends can make or break a deal.
South Australia’s property market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience. Despite economic uncertainties, the region has experienced significant growth, with Adelaide’s median dwelling value rising by 9.8% over the past year to $837,000, and regional SA seeing a 12.9% increase to $461,000.
Along with this continued growth we are seeing a number of key legal and conveyancing considerations to be aware of.
1. Increased Complexity in Contracts
With the market’s rapid growth, we’ve observed a rise in contracts containing special conditions, particularly concerning building inspections, subject to sale/settlement and finance clauses. These additions, while protective for buyers, can introduce complexities that may delay settlements if not carefully drafted and reviewed.
2. Emphasis on Accurate Property Disclosures
Heightened demand has led to extra pressure on the sales processes, sometimes at the expense of thorough and required property disclosures. Ensuring complete and accurate information is provided upfront is crucial to prevent post-contract disputes and potential legal challenges.
3. Navigating Stamp Duty and Tax Implications
Misunderstandings around cooling-off periods, GST treatment on commercial deals, and foreign ownership rules are still causing some extra challenges on some transactions. Early advice can help prevent contracts from falling over. Buyers and sellers must be well-informed about their rights and obligations, and agents play a pivotal role in guiding clients through these legal and financial aspects to ensure compliance and avoid unexpected liabilities.
How Agents Can Stay Ahead
Agents should engage with conveyancers early in the transaction to identify legal issues before they escalate, ensure Contracts and Form 1’s are accurate and complete, and help clients understand key financial obligations such as stamp duty and GST.
Encouraging contract review prior to signing for the more complex properties and transactions, avoiding copy-and-paste special conditions, and staying closely involved in the settlement process can significantly reduce risk and delays.
At Eckermanns, we’re proud to partner with agents across South Australia as a trusted resource—providing expert advice, interpreting and drafting complex clauses, and helping ensure transactions proceed smoothly to settlement. Whether through Greatforms, our Property Forms platform, or proactive legal support through our legal arm Eckermann Lawyers or our Eckermann Conveyancers team, we’re here to help you and your clients get to settlement—on time and stress-free.
