Property Identity Verification in 2026 — Why Purchasers and Sellers Are Facing More Checks Than Ever
Identity verification has always been part of property transactions. In 2026, however, the process is receiving greater attention than many buyers and sellers expected.
This is occurring for several reasons. The property industry continues to move further into digital transactions, cybercrime remains a concern, and regulatory expectations around verification and fraud prevention continue to increase. As a result, property professionals, lenders and settlement platforms are placing greater emphasis on confirming who is involved in a transaction before it proceeds.
For clients, this often creates confusion. Many buyers and sellers have completed previous transactions and assume the process will be familiar. Instead, they are being asked to complete identification procedures, provide additional information, attend video verification sessions, or respond to follow-up requests about their identity documents.
The purpose of these checks is not simply administrative.
Property remains one of the highest-value assets most people will deal with. Where an individual is able to impersonate an owner or purchaser, the consequences can be significant. Verification processes are designed to reduce that risk before contracts become binding or settlement proceeds.
Whether you are Buying Property in New South Wales or purchasing property in South Australia through our SA Buying Property Service, identity verification is increasingly becoming an early part of the transaction process rather than something that occurs immediately before settlement.
Sellers are experiencing similar changes.
Through our New South Wales Selling Property Service or South Australia Selling Property Service, additional verification requirements may arise before documents are signed or settlement can proceed. The practical effect is that preparation matters more than ever. Delays in providing identification documents or completing verification requirements can affect timeframes later in the transaction.
For most clients, the increase in verification is not a sign that something is wrong. It reflects a broader industry movement towards greater security, greater accountability and reduced fraud risk.
As property transactions become more digital, verification processes are likely to remain a significant part of the conveyancing landscape.
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