If you're looking to buy land and build a new home, you may come across the terms titled land and untitled land. Understanding the difference can help you know what to expect from the land purchase, settlement and building process.

The key difference is that titled land has been formally registered with the relevant state or territory land registry and has an individual title, while untitled land is still waiting for registration. Untitled land is common in new residential estates where subdivision and development works are still being completed.

Titled vs untitled land at a glance

• Titled land: Registered and generally able to progress toward settlement sooner.

• Untitled land: Still awaiting registration, so the settlement timeframe can be less certain.

• Ready to build? Both may be suitable for building a new home, but untitled land generally requires you to wait for title and other requirements before construction can progress.

In short: Titled land has already been registered, while untitled land is still going through the subdivision and registration process. If you're buying land to build a home, the biggest practical difference is usually how soon you can settle and progress with your build.

What is a land title?

A land title, also known as a Certificate of Title, is an official record of ownership of a parcel of land. It identifies the land and records the registered owner, property boundaries, and other important information that may apply to the property.

When a new residential lot is created through subdivision, the relevant registration process needs to be completed before an individual land title can be issued for that lot.

It’s important to note that having a land title does not automatically mean you can start building. Your block may still need to meet other requirements, including settlement, building approvals, site requirements and any conditions that apply to the property.

What is titled land?

Titled land is land that has been formally registered with the relevant land registry and has an individual land title.

For a buyer, this generally provides greater certainty about the individual block of land they are purchasing. Once the relevant conditions have been met and settlement has occurred, the land can move through the next stages of the new home building process.

What is untitled land?

Untitled land is land that has not yet received its individual registered land title. It is particularly common when buying a block in a new residential development that is still being subdivided or completed.

When buying untitled land, you may enter into a contract to purchase the future lot before the individual title has been issued. The contract will set out important details such as the purchase price, deposit, settlement arrangements and conditions that apply to the purchase.

The developer then continues the work required for land subdivision and registration. Once the relevant requirements have been met and the individual land title is issued, settlement can proceed in accordance with the contract.

Because the title has not yet been issued, the timing can be less certain than buying titled land. Development works, approvals and other factors can affect when a lot becomes titled.

What is the difference between titled and untitled land?

The key difference between titled and untitled land is whether the individual block has been formally registered. Titled land has an individual land title, while untitled land is still awaiting registration.

The key differences are summarised below:

Glossary of land title terms

Titled vs untitled land: Which is right for you?

There isn't one option that's right for every buyer. Whether titled or untitled land suits you depends on your preferred timeframe, financial circumstances and willingness to wait for the land registration process to be completed.

Titled land may suit you if:

• You want to settle on the land sooner.

• You want greater certainty around your timeframe.

• You're ready to progress with your new home.

• You don't want to wait for the subdivision and registration process.

Untitled land may suit you if:

• You're comfortable waiting for the land to be registered.

• You're buying in a new residential development.

• You want additional time to prepare for settlement.

• You're comfortable with a less certain title timeframe.

• You want to secure a block in a new or developing estate.

What does title status mean for your new home?

If you're buying land as part of a house and land package, the title status of the block can affect your overall timeframe.

Titled land can generally move toward settlement sooner, provided the other requirements of the purchase have been met. With untitled land, the subdivision and registration process needs to be completed before settlement can occur.

This doesn't mean you need to wait to start planning your home. Depending on your circumstances and the development, there may be time to work with your builder on your home design and other requirements while you're waiting for the land to title.

Your builder can help explain how the expected land title timeframe may affect your home building journey.

Building on titled or untitled land

Buying land is one part of the new home journey. If you're considering a house and land package, ask your builder about the expected title timeframe, settlement requirements and when the building process can progress.

What are the benefits of titled land?

One of the main advantages of titled land is greater certainty around the timing of the land purchase.

Because the individual lot has already been registered, there is generally less uncertainty around when the land can proceed to settlement, provided the other requirements of the purchase have been met.

For someone looking to build a home soon, titled land may also allow the building process to progress sooner than an untitled lot.

However, titled land isn't automatically the better choice. Your decision should also consider the location, price, block characteristics, finance arrangements and your preferred timeframe.

What are the benefits of untitled land?

Untitled land can be an option for buyers looking to purchase a block in a new or developing residential estate.

Potential benefits depend on the development, contract and individual buyer circumstances, but may include:

• Access to new developments: Untitled lots are common in new estates, allowing buyers to consider blocks in developing communities before individual titles have been issued.

• More time before settlement: Depending on the contract and expected title timeframe, buyers may have additional time to prepare for settlement.

• Choice within emerging estates: Buyers may be able to select from available lots while an estate is still being developed.

• Time to plan your new home: Depending on the development and purchase arrangements, the period before title registration can provide time to work through your home design and other requirements with your builder.

What should you consider when buying untitled land?

Buying untitled land can give you the opportunity to secure a block in a new residential development before the land is registered. However, it's important to understand the potential timing and contractual considerations before committing to a purchase.

1. Check the expected title timeframe

Ask the developer when the land is expected to be titled and understand that this is an estimate rather than necessarily a guaranteed date.

Development works, approvals and other factors can affect the timing.

2. Consider your finance arrangements

Check how long your finance approval is valid and what happens if the land takes longer than expected to title. Your lender may need to reassess your financial circumstances closer to settlement.

3. Understand your deposit and settlement terms

Review the contract carefully to understand:

• How much you need to pay upfront.

• When settlement is expected.

• What conditions apply to settlement.

• What happens if the title date changes.

A conveyancer or solicitor can help you understand the terms of your contract.

4. Consider your building timeframe

If you're purchasing a house and land package, consider how the timing of land registration affects the construction process.

Your builder can help explain when different stages of your new home journey can progress.

5. Find out what development work is still required

Ask what infrastructure, services and development works are still required before the land can be titled.

Your developer or conveyancer can provide more information about the specific estate and its expected timeframe.

6. Don't assume untitled land is cheaper

The price of land depends on factors including location, size, development, demand and market conditions. Untitled land shouldn't automatically be assumed to be cheaper than titled land.

Frequently asked questions 

Can you build on untitled land?

In most new residential developments, construction of your home won't begin until the individual land title has been issued and settlement has occurred. Other requirements, such as building approvals, site works and other conditions, must also be satisfied before construction starts. Your builder can explain how the timing affects your individual build.

How long does it take for land to become titled?

There is no universal timeframe for land to become titled. It depends on factors such as the subdivision process, development works, approvals and registration requirements. If you're buying untitled land, be sure to check with the developer for the expected title timeframe and review the contract carefully.

Does titled land mean I can start building immediately?

No. Having a title is an important step, but it doesn't automatically mean construction can begin. Settlement, building approvals, site requirements and other conditions may still need to be completed before construction starts.

Is untitled land cheaper than titled land?

Not necessarily. The price of land depends on a range of factors including location, size, development, demand and market conditions. Untitled land shouldn't automatically be assumed to be cheaper than titled land.

Is untitled land a good investment?

Whether untitled land is a good investment depends on the individual property, location, purchase price, development and your financial circumstances. Future increases in land value aren't guaranteed, so buyers should consider the risks and seek appropriate financial and legal advice.

What happens when land becomes titled?

Once the subdivision and registration process has been completed, an individual title can be issued for the lot. The purchase can then progress toward settlement in accordance with the contract, subject to any other requirements.

What is the difference between a land title and a title plan?

A land title is the official registered record associated with ownership and interests affecting a property. A title plan is a registered plan that helps identify the land and its boundaries.

What is a freehold title?

A freehold title generally refers to ownership of land for an indefinite period, subject to the laws, rights and interests recorded against the property. Freehold ownership is common for residential properties in Australia. However, the exact rights and restrictions associated with a property depend on its title, registered interests, planning requirements and applicable state or territory laws.

If you're unsure what type of title applies to a property, your conveyancer or solicitor can explain the specific title and any registered interests before you purchase.

Can I buy a house and land package before the land is titled?

Yes, house and land packages can be offered on land that is still awaiting title, depending on the development and purchase arrangements. If you're considering an untitled house and land package, make sure you understand the expected title timeframe, deposit requirements, settlement conditions and how the land title affects the timing of your home build.

Find your house and land package

Whether you're looking for titled land that's ready to progress toward settlement or an untitled block in a new residential estate, understanding the title status of your land can help you plan your next steps.

Explore Simonds house and land packages to find a new home and land combination that suits your location, budget and lifestyle.