How to find a conveyancer

When you’re buying or selling property, a good conveyancer or solicitor is essential. So how do you find one?

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When you’re buying or selling property, a good conveyancer or solicitor is essential. So how do you find one?

KEY POINTS

In most parts of Australia, conveyancing can be done by a conveyancer or a solicitor.
The exceptions are Queensland and the ACT, where it must be done by a solicitor.
Conveyancing can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,200 and above.

What is conveyancing?

Conveyancing is when a property’s ownership changes via a legal transfer. It’s one of the most important steps in buying or selling your home, and it’s important that you get help from professionals for this often complex process.

Who can do conveyancing?

In most parts of Australia, conveyancing can be done by a professional real estate conveyancer – called a Settlement Agent in Western Australia – or a solicitor who specialises in conveyancing. However, if you are in Queensland or the Australian Capital Territory, you’ll need to hire a solicitor as conveyancers are not permitted to operate in those jurisdictions.

Do I need a conveyancer or a lawyer?

If the house sale looks like it will be a relatively simple and straightforward transaction, a licensed conveyancing practitioner may be a cheaper option.
For large real estate deals or more complicated transactions, a conveyancing solicitor may be preferable. They will have the extensive legal knowledge necessary to handle any unusual situation.
It’s also worth noting that some conveyancers will also be qualified solicitors. This might give you the best of both worlds. Some law firms employ registered conveyancers to handle all real estate-related cases.

If you are in Qld or ACT: you will need to hire a solicitor that offers conveyancing services. They may also be colloquially known as property lawyers or real estate lawyers.

How do I choose a conveyancer?

As we all know, the best referral is sometimes through people you know. So ask around and see if any of your friends and family have used a good conveyancer or conveyancing solicitor. You could also ask your real estate agent or other professionals you trust.

If you are using a mortgage broker for help with your home loan, they will likely be able to recommend a good conveyancer. You can also look online. A good place to start is the Australian Institute of Conveyancers in your state or territory. To find a solicitor, you could try your state or territory’s law society, such as the Queensland Law Society or the ACT Law Society.

Once you have your list of prospective conveyancers, give each of them a call and ask a few questions to help you decide on one you’re comfortable with. Some conveyancers or law firms may specialise in different types of real estate.

How much does conveyancing cost?

According to The Mortgage Agency, conveyancing costs can vary based on local regulations and the location of the property. As a general guide, they say that conveyancing in major cities can cost between $1,000 and $2,200, and in rural areas, can cost between $800 to $1,800.

Questions to ask a conveyancer or conveyancing solicitor

Are you a member of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers?
What types of property do you mainly specialise in?
What will it cost – what are your fees and charges? What fees, and charges will I have to pay at settlement? Are there any hidden costs?
How will you communicate with me and how often?

When you have found a conveyancer or solicitor, do a background check to ensure they are legally allowed to carry out the work and have no complaints against them. The Australian Institute of Conveyancers or the Legal Services Commission in your state or territory can help with this.

Conveyancing isn’t the only cost of buying a home. If you want to get an idea of how much stamp duty you’ll have to pay on your property, try out our Stamp Duty Calculator.