Finding a good conveyancer in Australia

Whether you’re buying or selling a property, subdividing land, updating a property title, or registering an easement, finding a good conveyancer to assist you with the process will ensure a correct, and hassle-free procedure.

If you’re new to the process, you may not be fully familiar with conveyancing. So here’s a quick guide to what they do, and how to find a good conveyancer in Australia:  

How Conveyancing works

Conveyancing refers to the process of transferring ownership of legal title of a property from one person to another. Typically, conveyancing will involve three stages:

1. Before contract
2. Before completion
3. After completion

It’s important to note that conveyancing works differently in every state and territory in Australia due to different laws and practices.

What does a Conveyancer do?

Conveyancers are accredited by the government to perform the process of conveyancing a property for you whether you buying or selling. They are licensed and qualified individuals or companies that will handle the transfer of ownership of property between a buyer and a seller.

For the buyer of the property, a conveyancer will prepare necessary legal documents such as a contract of sale, or memorandum of transfer. They will conduct searches regarding the property, they will check for easements, know the type of title, compute adjustment of the rates and taxes and act on your behalf to settle the property.

For the seller of the property, the conveyancer will ensure that all necessary legal documents are organised and completed. They will also be the one to represent you and respond to the queries of the buyer.

Questions to ask your conveyancer

Conveyancing can be done either by a professional real estate conveyancer or a solicitor specialising in conveyancing. A good conveyancer or a top conveyancing solicitor should be able to explain to you in clear detail the process so you will fully understand the purpose of documents you’re signing.  

Here’s a checklist of the questions you should ask to help you find a good conveyancer:

1. Ask if he/she is a member of the Australian Institute of Conveyancers
2. Ask what type of real estate they specialise in
3. Ask for the total costings. What are the services covered by the fees and charges?
4. Ask how long they think the settlement will take
5. How will the communication be, and how often?

Referrals from your friends and family will help you find a good conveyancer. You can also visit the Australian Institute of Conveyancers website to check the registered and licensed conveyancers.