Conveyancing FAQs

In short, Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring the ownership of a property from one person to another.

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It is recommended you speak with a conveyance solicitor, lawyer or licensed conveyancer during the pre-purchase / pre-sale process. If you are buying property they can review the contract with you, help make amendments (if necessary), and organise building or pest inspection reports. If you are selling your home, conveyancers and solicitors can help you prepare your vendor statement or contract for sale.

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A Certified Practising Conveyancer is someone who has completed the education and practical training requirements to be a member of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers and hold a conveyancers license. They must abide by the rules of the AIC, complete annual training and professional development and hold professional indemnity insurance.

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Conveyancers are educated and qualified to provide expert advice in relation to matters of conveyancing and property law only. Solicitors can give you legal advice about conveyancing as well as other legal matters such as wills, estate law, family law and criminal matters to name a few.

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Yes, although DIY conveyance it is not recommended. Conveyance work is time consuming and requires a lot of complex paperwork. Self conveyance can be risky because you cannot get the same insurance available to a conveyancer or solicitor. If you make a mistake then you are responsible and will not be able to get financial compensation.

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Not always. The fees that solicitors and conveyancers charge for professional services will vary depending on your needs. Some people will have more complex legal requirements than others. We recommend you get three quotes from licensed conveyancers or conveyancing solicitors to compare costs before you engage their services. Why not try our Free prescreened conveyancing referral service? Ask for a itemised statement of likely costs and be wary of low ball bids. They can be a sign of basic service with lots of extra charges and hidden fees.

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The general settlement period is 4 - 6 weeks from exchange. This term can be negotiated by either the buyer or seller prior to signing the contract.

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A cooling off period is a period of time in which the buyer of property can withdraw from a contract without penalty. Cooling off periods vary between Australian States and Territories and do not apply in certain circumstances (ie, when you buy at auction). Check with your conveyancer before signing any contract.

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Settlement is when the sale is finalised. Generally, your conveyancer will attend settlement on your behalf. There are usually four parties at settlement - the buyers and sellers conveyancers and the banks for the buyers and conveyancers.

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