When buying property in New South Wales (NSW), one of the biggest costs — apart from the purchase price — is stamp duty. But what exactly is stamp duty, how is it calculated, and are there exemptions available?
At Advanced Conveyancing & Developments, we help you navigate the full conveyancing process, including understanding your stamp duty obligations, to make buying and selling property in NSW stress-free.

What is Stamp Duty in NSW?

Stamp duty, officially known as transfer duty, is a government tax charged by Revenue NSW when you buy property, land, or certain business assets.
It must be paid within three months of the date of exchange (not settlement) for most purchases.

The amount of stamp duty you’ll pay depends on:

  • The purchase price or market value of the property
  • Whether you’re eligible for any concessions or exemptions
  • Whether you’re buying a residential home, vacant land, investment property, or commercial property

✅ Pro Tip: Always budget for stamp duty early. Use the Revenue NSW Stamp Duty Calculator for an estimate or contact us at Advanced Conveyancing & Developments for a personalised assessment.

How is Stamp Duty Calculated in NSW?

Stamp duty rates in NSW are tiered based on the value of the property.
As of 2025, some key thresholds include:

  • Properties up to $16,000 attract $1.25 for every $100.
  • Properties between $16,000 – $320,000 have a base amount plus a percentage.
  • Properties over $3 million are subject to premium duty.

Additionally, foreign buyers may have to pay a surcharge purchaser duty.

Because these rates can change, it’s important to confirm the latest figures with your conveyancer or Revenue NSW.

Stamp Duty Exemptions and Concessions in NSW

The NSW Government offers several stamp duty exemptions and concessions to help certain buyers save money.

  1. First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme (FHBAS)
  • Exemption from stamp duty for new and existing homes up to a certain value.
  • Discount (concession) for properties just over the exemption threshold.
  • Available for first-time buyers who meet residency and purchase price criteria.

Example:
As of 2025, a full exemption may apply for properties under $800,000 for eligible buyers.

  1. Off-the-Plan Concessions

If you buy an off-the-plan apartment or home and intend to live in it, you may qualify for a deferral of stamp duty for up to 12 months after the contract date or until settlement — whichever comes first.

  1. Shared Equity Scheme

If you’re part of an approved Shared Equity Home Buyer Helper Scheme, you could be eligible for reduced or deferred stamp duty payments.

  1. Pensioner Concessions

Eligible pensioners may receive a discount on stamp duty if purchasing a lower-priced home.

Why You Need a Conveyancer When Dealing With Stamp Duty

At Advanced Conveyancing & Developments, we handle everything from:

  • Calculating your stamp duty liability
  • Applying for exemptions or concessions
  • Lodging required documents with Revenue NSW
  • Managing payment deadlines so you don’t incur penalties

Whether you’re a first home buyer, downsizer, or property investor, we make the conveyancing process in NSW smooth, transparent, and stress-free.

✅ Don’t risk paying more stamp duty than necessary. Trust the experts at Advanced Conveyancing & Developments to guide you through every step.

Contact Advanced Conveyancing & Developments Today

Need help understanding stamp duty when buying or selling property in NSW?
We’re here to help you maximise savings and ensure a seamless property transaction.

📞 Call us now on [Your Contact Number] or
📩 Enquire through our website to book a consultation.

At Advanced Conveyancing & Developments, your property journey starts here — with expertise you can trust across NSW.