What Does a Conveyancer Do? A Simple Guide for Buyers and Sellers
Buying or selling property is one of the biggest financial decisions Australians make. Yet one of the most common questions asked at the beginning of the process is: What does a conveyancer do?
Whether you are purchasing your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or selling an investment property, a conveyancer plays a critical role in protecting you legally and ensuring the transaction is completed correctly.
This guide explains exactly what a conveyancer does, why their role is essential, and how they work with your Mortgage Broker to ensure a smooth and secure outcome.
What Is a Conveyancer?
A conveyancer is a licensed professional who handles the legal and administrative work required to transfer ownership of property from one party to another.
They ensure:
Contracts are legally valid
Ownership is transferred lawfully
Financial obligations are met
Settlement is completed correctly
Risks are identified before you commit
Their role is to protect your legal and financial interests during a property transaction.
What Does Conveyancing Mean?
Conveyancing refers to the legal process involved when property changes ownership. This includes reviewing contracts, conducting searches, preparing documents, and coordinating settlement.
Conveyancing begins when the contract of sale is signed and ends when ownership is officially registered.
Why a Conveyancer Is Required by Law
Property transactions involve complex legislation, deadlines, and financial risk. A licensed conveyancer ensures the transaction complies with state and territory laws and protects you from signing contracts that may expose you to future problems.
What Does a Conveyancer Do for Buyers?
When purchasing property, your conveyancer safeguards your legal position from start to finish.
Reviewing the Contract of Sale
Before you sign, your conveyancer will review:
Special conditions
Cooling-off periods
Deposits and penalties
Settlement terms
They explain your rights and obligations and identify unfavourable clauses.
Conducting Property and Title Searches
Your conveyancer organises searches to identify:
Zoning restrictions
Easements and covenants
Outstanding council rates
Planning approvals
Strata issues
These searches reveal risks that may not be visible during inspections.
Working With Your Mortgage Broker and Lender
Your conveyancer works with:
Your Mortgage Broker
Your lender or bank
Other legal representatives
They ensure your loan approval aligns with the contract and that settlement requirements are met.
Managing Legal Paperwork and Stamp Duty
Your conveyancer prepares and lodges:
Transfer of ownership documents
Stamp duty forms
Identity checks
Legal declarations
They ensure deadlines are met and documentation is accurate.
Coordinating Settlement and Transfer of Ownership
On settlement day, your conveyancer:
Confirms final figures
Transfers funds
Registers ownership changes
Finalises legal documents
Ownership is not official until this step is complete.
What Does a Conveyancer Do for Sellers?
Sellers rely on conveyancers to ensure the sale is legally secure.
Preparing the Contract of Sale
Your conveyancer ensures:
Title details are accurate
Disclosures are identified
Legal risks are managed upfront
Handling Buyer Enquiries and Amendments
They communicate with:
The buyer’s conveyancer or solicitor
The selling agent
They assist with contract changes and legal clarifications.
Managing Mortgage Discharge and Payouts
If a mortgage exists, your conveyancer:
Lodges a discharge authority
Confirms final payout figures
Ensures the mortgage is removed correctly
Finalising Settlement and Ownership Transfer
Settlement is overseen and funds are distributed to complete the sale.
Conveyancer vs Solicitor: What’s the Difference?
When a Conveyancer Is Enough
For standard property transactions, a licensed conveyancer is typically sufficient and more cost-effective.
When You May Need a Solicitor Instead
A solicitor may be necessary if:
You are buying via a trust or company
A dispute arises
You are dealing with complex contracts or litigation
When Should You Hire a Conveyancer?
Before You Sign a Contract
Never sign without legal advice.
When Making an Offer
Engage early to avoid last-minute pressure.
Before Paying a Deposit
Never pay money without legal review.
How Conveyancers Work With Mortgage Brokers
Aligning Finance and Legal Timelines
Your Mortgage Broker secures finance approvals.
Your conveyancer ensures legal documents match lender requirements.
Avoiding Delays at Settlement
Together they prevent:
Incorrect documentation
Funding errors
Missed deadlines
How Much Does Conveyancing Cost in Australia?
Typical Conveyancing Fees Explained
Fees typically range between $800 and $2,500, depending on state and complexity.
Additional Costs to Be Aware Of
You may also pay:
Search fees
Registration costs
Government charges
Stamp duty
How to Choose the Right Conveyancer
Qualifications and Licensing
Always check credentials.
Communication and Availability
Accessibility matters.
Experience in Your State or Territory
Laws vary across Australia.
Common Conveyancing Mistakes to Avoid
Signing Without Legal Review
Never rely on the agent’s explanation alone.
Missing Cooling-Off Periods
Know your rights before committing.
Assuming the Agent Handles Everything
Agents do not provide legal protection.
Final Thoughts for Buyers and Sellers
A conveyancer ensures your property transaction is lawful, accurate, and secure.
Their role protects you from costly mistakes and ensures ownership is transferred correctly.
Need Help With Finance and Settlement?
At My Finance Consultants, we work closely with conveyancers to ensure your loan and settlement process are aligned.
If you are buying, selling, or refinancing, speak with a Mortgage Broker who can guide you from application to approval with confidence.