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📋 Guide 6 min read

Conveyancing in Australia: What Homeowners Need to Know

Conveyancing is the legal transfer of property ownership from one party to another. Understanding the process helps you navigate the steps between signing a contract and getting the keys.

What Does a Conveyancer Do?

  • 1 Reviews and explains the contract before you sign
  • 2 Searches for any encumbrances, easements, or restrictions on the property
  • 3 Prepares and lodges transfer documents with the land titles office
  • 4 Calculates adjustments (rates, body corporate fees, etc.) between buyer and seller
  • 5 Manages settlement — the financial transfer and document exchange
  • 6 Registers the new ownership with the state land titles office

Solicitor vs Conveyancer

In Australia, conveyancing can be performed by a licensed conveyancer or a solicitor. Solicitors can also advise on related legal issues (contract disputes, easements, dispute resolution). Conveyancers are specialists — often faster and cheaper for standard transactions. For complex transactions (unusual easements, heritage complications, estate sales), a solicitor is preferable.

How Much Does Conveyancing Cost?

Professional conveyancing fees: $800–$2,500 for a standard residential property purchase, depending on state and complexity. Search costs (council, title, drainage searches) add $200–$600. Settlement fees (PEXA/physical settlement) add $50–$150. Total all-in: expect $1,200–$3,500 for a standard residential purchase.

Key Stages in the Process

  • 1 Pre-signing: conveyancer reviews contract before you sign — critical stage for spotting issues
  • 2 Pre-settlement: searches conducted, finance confirmed, adjustments calculated
  • 3 Settlement: funds transferred, documents exchanged — this is when you get the keys
  • 4 Post-settlement: transfer registered with land titles office — typically 1-3 business days after settlement

Cooling-Off Periods

In NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, and ACT, residential property contracts have a cooling-off period (typically 2-5 business days) during which you can rescind the contract for any reason, subject to a penalty (usually 0.25% of the purchase price). There is no cooling-off period for properties purchased at auction — unconditional contracts are binding immediately.

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