Who can do conveyancing work?

Who can do conveyancing work?

When you buy or sell property it is necessary for a lot of paperwork to be completed and for all agreed conditions in the contract of sale fulfilled. You have three options for doing your conveyancing:

1. using a conveyancer or conveyancing firm
2. using a solicitor or lawyer
3. DYI / self conveyancing

Using a conveyancer

Conveyancers and conveyancing firms are specialists in property law and can only advise you about matters relating to buying and selling property. Each state and territory in Australia has different requirements relating to the licensing requirements of conveyancers. Before you engage the services of a conveyancer do your homework - check credentials, licenses and insurance coverage to ensure that you are protected in case they make a mistake.

Using a solicitor or lawyer

Solicitors are qualified to perform all aspects of conveyancing but they can also give you legal advice about other legal matters that may relate to ownership of real estate such as taxation, family law, wills and estate law. Solicitors must have professional indemnity insurance for your protection.

Doing it yourself (DYI)

It is possible and legal to do your own conveyance, but because of the technical nature of the tasks, the time it takes, and the associated risks involved it's not recommended. There are a number of DYI Conveyancing kits available that will assist you with the process if you choose this option. But beware, if you make a mistake you will not have any protection (legally or financially).